Black Hills Balloons — Local services in Custer

Our ride with Black Hills Balloons was wonderful. I had never been up in a balloon before and was pleasantly surprised to discover how calm, smooth, and relaxing the ride was. It really is a surreal experience to be floating above the world in a colorful balloon while wildlife run beneath us -- there were dozens of deer and at least a couple of what appeared to be elk spotted during our flight. The South Dakota scenery is especially gorgeous from up high, and we happened to fly on a beautiful morning with clear skies so that we could see for miles in every direction.

Our pilot Damien, a fine Irish gentleman, was very funny and knowledgeable (he was glad to answer any questions anyone had about how the balloon works), and was a calming presence for my girlfriend who is a bit terrified of heights (she ended up loving the trip).

Special thanks to all of the crew on the ground who also worked hard to make sure we had a great experience. There seemed to be at least 3 crew members per balloon waiting to assist when we landed and they were all very helpful.

And the post-flight mimosas, snacks, and funny balloon history lesson were a great ending to an amazing experience!

I can't say enough good things about our experience flying with Black Hills Balloons and would gladly ride with them again when we come back to Custer.

Note: The early morning trip can make for some dew on the ground and chilly temperatures (at least until the sun is fully up!) so bring an extra layer of warm clothes and socks that you can shed as the...

Would so give Mike, Damien and crew a six, or even better a ten star review if allowable, however this only allows for a five star review.

My sister, mother and I are in the area for Mother’s birthday celebration. Father wanted to surprise mother with giving her one of her dreams. The dream and wish of riding in a hot air balloon. Black Hills Balloons helped us in keeping it a surprise for her until the last moment possible.

Seeing the expression upon her face was well worth it. The knowledge and expertise of the crew and our captain, Mike, was by far superb. The care they took and respect given to our mother who needs a cane to get about was excellent. Their assistance was greatly appreciated.

While up in the air, the guidance with a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area was full of knowledge. It was very peaceful being up in the air. The silence while being 1,400 feet above the ground was so peaceful. It reminded me of the sound of newly fallen snow.

After landing, Damien, Mike and the crew treated us with a history of hot air balloons, an Irish blessing and a sampling of champagne with a bite to eat.

I would highly recommend indulging in this treat of gaining a bird’s eye view with Black Hills Balloons.

Thank you again to Mike, Damien and...

My wife planned a trip to South Dakota as a surprise for me. One item on our bucket list was to visit Mount Rushmore. In the weeks before our trip we sat down to find things to do in the area while we were there. She found Black Hills Balloon and wanted to take a balloon ride. I must say that it really wasn't my thing, but I decided we should do it because it was something she would enjoy since she had planned the trip for me in the first place. We met Damien at the pick up spot bright and early that morning. Once everyone arrived we were off for an adventure. Let me tell you, once we got all the safety rules we lifted off and all the sudden you could hear a pin drop! After all this wasn't my cup of tea right?!? Well let me tell you, I was sorely mistaken! We could not have had better pilot or a better experience than what we had. I would not hesitate to recommend this experience to anyone. It truly was an awesome experience. And I would not hesitate to make that trip again with Black Hills Balloons. I can't thank Damien and his crew enough for an outstanding experience. Please do yourself the favor and make an appointment to take that flight. It was a highlight of our trip that's for sure. I hope we can make that trip...