Experience the Most Romantic Views in the Southwest: Glide Above Arizona’s Glowing Red Rock Canyons

In the 25-square-mile area known as Red Rock Country, located in Sedona, Arizona, is a series of awe-inspiring rock formations. Their unique hue results from the iron materials combining with oxygen, creating the rust-colored rock for which the region is famous. Around 330 million years ago, this alien-like landscape began to take its present-day form through the gradual processes of tectonic plate movement, erosion, and sedimentation. Dramatic buttes, towering spires, and mammoth mesas dot the desert, like giant icebergs emerging from a red sea. And for centuries, the otherworldly beauty of this sacred place attracted Indigenous settlers, from the Sinagua to the Apache, European explorers, and more. Recently, it has brought in a plethora of spiritual visitors, who come searching for Sedona’s vortexes — centers of metaphysical energy with healing powers that supposedly emanate from the rocks. It’s no wonder that Sedona earned the title of the world’s ‘most mindful’ escape. But this place doesn’t just offer cosmic energy — its stunning landscape and small-town charm also provide the perfect setting for a couple’s getaway. And what could be more romantic than a dreamy, hot-air balloon ride over the desert with your special someone?

There are only two companies offering this experience: Northern Light Balloon Expeditions and Red Rock Balloons. As the two operators are comparable in ratings and safety records, you can’t go wrong with either one, and you are almost guaranteed to have a serene, magical ride. Float above the red rock canyons, glowing in the early-morning light. Savor the most romantic views in the Southwest as you look down upon the spectacular monoliths and other geological marvels, set against the vibrant green of the surrounding pine forests. And enjoy a celebratory glass of bubbly with your partner — the perfect way to end your fairy-tale adventure in the sky.

The original provider of this extraordinary aerial journey is Northern Light Balloon Expeditions, which launched in 1974. It has a sizeable fleet of balloons for different group sizes, and its preferred launch site is off of Red Rock Loop Road. At the time of this writing, a trip costs $375 per person, with no additional fees, and you can cancel up to 48 hours before your flight. The price includes pick-ups and drop-offs at most hotels in Sedona, as well as a delightful champagne celebration upon landing (with pastries and an explanation of hot-air ballooning’s history). The company offers one flight a day, starting at sunrise and lasting for one to two hours, depending on conditions.

Red Rock Balloons offers a similar experience for the same cost. Their price also includes transfers to and from the site, a sunrise ride, a glass of bubbly, and a history chat upon landing. This company’s primary launch site is off of Dry Creek Road, close to Long Canyon and Boynton Canyon. They have a 24-hour cancellation policy for individuals and small groups, but up to 72 hours for groups of eight to 10 passengers.

Northern Light Balloon Expeditions has a 4.7 rating on Tripadvisor (out of more than 500 reviews), with one previous passenger commenting that the trip “was the experience of a lifetime … The sensation of peacefully floating over Sedona beyond description. The pilot and crew were also professional, friendly and knowledgeable” (via Tripadvisor). Meanwhile, Red Rock Balloons has a similarly high rating of 4.9 out of over 1,000 reviews. A recent guest wrote on Tripadvisor, “I felt like I was paying for the best possible pilot and crew … [who] made the flight fun while keeping us completely safe. This was … exhilarating and breathtaking!”