“10 Stars out of 5!!!!! My boyfriend arranged a balloon ride as a surprise for my 30th birthday. It was SO fun and SO memorable! Darren was friendly, professional and my boyfriend tells me that he “inspired confidence” from the very first call. The scenery was gorgeous (visit Smith Rock State Park before you fly for an extra special trip above Redmond). It is unbelievably quiet and relaxing once you are in the air.”

— HEATHER E. MAMMOTH LAKES, CA

“Such an amazing way to see our home town! Thanks for an amazing birthday for my hubby and anniversary. So much fun!”

— JOHN & MEGAN H. BEND, OR

“Excellent and professional. Great experience.Darren and Jason did an excellent job for us. Darren is easy going and professional, and our ride was excellent. I thought it would be a bit scary, but wasn’t scared at all! I asked a few questions and Darren pointed out some landmarks. He was very friendly, but also let the beauty of the flight take center stage– meaning he did a great job not talking excessively or the entire time!Landing and take off were smoother than I thought they would be, and my wife and I enjoyed our time. We had a family of 4 on our flight as well, they were pleasant and there was enough room for everybody.I would highly recommend Big Sky Balloon to anybody interested! ”

— JASON S. PORTLAND OR

“Thank you so much for the beautiful ride. It was amazing. We had such a wonderful time. The pilot and crew were so kind, friendly, and helpful. They patiently answered all our questions, explained the process, and informed us of what was going to happen. It was one of the best experiences we have had in a long time. I would highly recommend it to those watching us from the ground! :)”

- Teri B.

A balloon ride has been on the bucket list for a few years and we’re happy it was fulfilled by Darren and big sky balloon company. Darren provided an amazing experience floating over the valley, seeing Smith Rock and crooked river from the air and enjoying the amazing thrill of floating high above the terrain while feeling safe. Darren and Garrett, his young and enthusiastic apprentice (drove the chase truck and helped set up and take down the balloon) were personable, engaging and happily answered questions regarding the skills of ballooning. If you’ve been wanting to go for a balloon ride, I highly recommend big sky balloon company!

- Randall & Marlene N. Medford, OR

It wouldn't matter if there were more hot air balloon choices in central Oregon because these guys are so good, you wouldn't want to go with anyone else! From the greeting to when we first arrived to drop off and picture sharing, this team made us feel like royalty and their friends at the same time. I can't say enough good things about them or recommend them more...I'll let the photos do the talking.

- Tyra R.

The stunning Central Oregon crisp sunrise was picture perfect, as we trusted pilot Darren and chaser Garrett from Big Sky Balloon Company take our godson on a “bucket list” moment 2,000 feet over Terrebonne and Crooked River with unparalleled views of the Cascade Mountains that became snow capped over the past couple of days.

We marveled at a new viewpoint of Mt. Bachelor, Broken Top, the three Sisters (Charity, Hope and Faith), Mt. Washington, Black Butte, Three Fingered Jack, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. Hood… we even saw Mt. Adams in Washington state. All white with new snow. Even the view on the imposing Smith Rock from the high vantage point was spectacular.

Garrett asked me to help inflate the 180,000 cubic foot balloon, and having this hands-on experience was kinda cool.

This flying (or floating) in a hot air balloon experience was epic!!! But what made this 5-star, was the crew. Darren and Garrett were so welcoming, knowledgeable, and really made this memorable based on how they treated their passengers. Darren answered all the crazy questions in flight, with a genuine smile and rich answers. Garrett’s hugest asset is his personality, humor, and enthusiasm. He had us cracking-up with laughter from start to finish.

If you want a balloon flight, I am sure there are multiple options. If you want an amazing “experience,” then book with Big Sky Balloon Company.

Thank you Darren and Garrett. You guys ROCK!!!

-Jon, Isaac and our godson Oliver

“Climbing up to 1000 feet over Smith Rock, Crooked River, farm circles, corn mazes and the Central Oregon high desert was a beautiful way to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. Big Sky Balloon owner and pilot, Darren Kling showed us a fabulous time, narrating our ride, answering all our questions and finally bringing us back to earth with a soft landing and complimentary greeting by a herd of steers. What a spectacular treat for our special occasion!!! And if you want to get married, get carried up, up and away, as Darren is licensed to perform your ceremony from on high. So cool! Just do it! ”

— DEBORAH D. FEDERAL WAY WA

“Really enjoyed our recent balloon trip. Pilot (Darren) was friendly, professional, and very knowledgeable of area. Smooth take off and landing. Scenery from 2500 feet was stunning. Always felt safe and secure. Would do it again and will recommend without hesitation. Good fun.”

— CHERI W. URBANDALE, IA

"A perfect early morning ride with an extremely professional pilot. Darren was terrific on guidance of the balloon and gave us great information of the area as we glided along. Very enjoyable to take in this beautiful area from around 1000 feet above the ground."   

- Lloyd P, Tuscan AZ

"What a great feeling to be lifted gently off the earth and in short order to be over a thousand feet off the ground gazing at the magnificent vistas all around. The balloonist, Darren, couldn't be more perfect with a professionalism that included a hands on knowledge of ballooning as well as a personable demeanor that makes you glad to be there!"  

- Rich J, Bend OR

Incredible experience for our first hot air balloon ride! The guys were very professional and I knew that we were in good hands throughout the ride. Beautiful views of Smith Rock and Crooked River, as well as the mountains and Central Oregon in general. I highly recommend Big Sky Balloon Company!

- Zea M.

Best reason to wake up early is to watch the sunrise over Smith Rock from a hot air balloon! Great crew, posh ride, amazing views, and good company on our flight. Exciting, entertaining, and relaxing all at the same time. I highly recommend this adventure-not just for tourists, I'm a local!!

- Marie R.

This was definitely an experience I can never forget. Everyone involved was so great. The ride was beautiful and pleasant and felt really special. I felt safe the whole time and it was also really cool watching the process of the balloon being set up and put away. It's obvious that everyone is incredibly familiar with the process and I'm so glad we came here!

- Christine M.

Darren and Garrett, THANK YOU for such a memorable anniversary morning for us to celebrate! your professionalism, kindness, knowledge of landmarks & ease of takeoff, landing & everything in between was truly amazing! My fear of heights was quickly drowned out with the beautiful sunrise landscape of Central Oregon. My husband and I thank you and your team for a fantastic, peaceful, enjoyable memory of a lifetime! We highly recommend Big Sky Balloon Co.

-Sheila A.

Darren & his crew were fantastic. Darren was great pilot and very knowledgeable of the landscape. The flight and views accompanied with it were marvelous. Oregon is such a pretty place especially from a balloon and the people are friendly people as well. I would recommend it to anyone who has never done a hot air balloon before to come to Oregon and take a ride at Big Sky Balloon Company.

-Brian I.

Big Sky Balloon Co provides a fun, safe and professional experience. Booking, communication, lift-off, floating, landing and returning to the launch area were all top notch. These folks are experts and made for a memorable adventure over Central Oregon. I would gladly do it again!

-Zac D.