Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills in Custer
Custer, United States

Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills

Outty Ranking 86 5.0 · 527 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $375

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

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Age 12 and under

0

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From, per person$375
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Outty Ranking

86/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 527 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills worth booking?

Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills is a 2-hour experience in Custer, United States, from $375 per person. It scores 86 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional, based on a 5/5 rating across 527 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
86 / 100
Rating
5/5 (527)
Duration
2 hours
From
$375 per person

Experience the untamed beauty of the Black Hills from a hot air balloon! Located in Custer, SD, near Custer State Park, our launch sites are just miles from iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Wind Cav

What you get

    About this experience

    Experience the untamed beauty of the Black Hills from a hot air balloon! Located in Custer, SD, near Custer State Park, our launch sites are just miles from iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Wind Cave National Park. Soar over rugged granite peaks, sweeping valleys, and serene lakes, enjoying a bird's-eye view of abundant wildlife like roaming buffalo, elk, and antelope. There is nowhere else in the world where you can witness this historic, wild landscape from such an incredible vantage point. Established in 1984, our pilots' unmatched expertise in navigating the region's unique microclimates makes us the premier ballooning company in the Black Hills, consistently recognized as a Top 10 U.S. flight. Our daily sunrise flights (weather permitting) feature approximately one hour in the air, culminating in a traditional champagne celebration, light snacks, and a souvenir certificate. Phone hours: 8am - 8pm daily.

    What's included

    Included

    • Bottled water
    • All Fees and Taxes
    • Hot Air Balloon Flight
    • Glass of Champagne

    Not included

    • Hotel pick up and drop-off
    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. Make your own way to the centrally located meeting point in Custer, SD. From here, you will be taken to the launch site where the crew will begin the task of unloading and preparing your balloon. Take part in a short safety briefing and enjoy photo opportunities as the balloon is being inflated.

      15 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Black Hills National Forest

      Once the balloon is ready, you’ll gently take to the skies for an approximate 1-hour flight over the Black Hills National Forest. If you are new to ballooning, you’ll be surprised at the silence and serenity you’ll find high above the treetops. It’s truly magical. Upon landing, the ground crew will pack the balloon while you and your pilot celebrate the flight with complimentary champagne, light snacks and a story about the origin of hot air ballooning. Flights depart at sunrise and are weather dependent and always at the discretion of your experienced pilot.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Custer

    Diagonally across from Lynn's Dakotamart, the local supermarket in town. Must check for an email or text from Black Hills Balloons the evening before the flight between 6.30pm and 8 pm for a flight status update and weather check. If you don't hear from us by 6.30pm please contact us.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Diagonally across from Lynn's Dakotamart, the local supermarket in town. Must check for an email or text from Black Hills Balloons the evening before the flight between 6.30pm and 8 pm for a flight status update and weather check. If you don't hear from us by 6.30pm please contact us.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Black Hills Balloons

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Minimum age is 4 years
    • Black Hills Balloons will text and email the day before the flight before 6.30 pm for a flight status update and weather check.

    Photos

    Up up and away!Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills in Custer, photo 3Soar over ponderosa pine forests, green valleys and granite spires.View beautiful landscapes and local wildlife from our secure gondola.Sunrise from the air!Preparing the balloon to launch.

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 518 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    2 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Organization

    2 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    518 verified traveler reviews for Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    506
    4 star
    8
    3 star
    2
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    2
    Sort
    151debiz · August 2026

    BREATHTAKING

    This was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had! I had always been a little apprehensive and don’t know why. Damien made me feel very comfortable just by being himself. He’s very relaxed and reassuring. Safety is his number one concern. He was very informative throughout the flight. The sunrise was absolutely beautiful.If they had more than five stars, this is one company that would definitely deserve it.

    via Tripadvisor

    TravelonMadsen · August 2026

    Balloons are Best

    Wonderful crew! First time for our family of six! Everyone enjoyed it and it was one of the most relaxing things I’ve ever done. Felt like floating on air, literally! Our pilot, Pat, was great! I would do this again!

    via Tripadvisor

    emilynH3169GS · August 2026

    Bucket list item ✔️

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our experience with Black Hills Hot Air Balloon was absolutely amazing! From start to finish, the staff was incredible and made the entire experience so easy and enjoyable. A huge shoutout to Damien for his constant communication and keeping us updated about the weather. When the weather didn’t cooperate, he made rescheduling our balloon ride completely seamless. We always felt informed and knew we were in good hands. The professionalism, communication, and customer service were top-notch. When we finally got up in the air, it was absolutely worth the wait! We couldn’t recommend Black Hills Hot Air Balloon enough. If you’re thinking about taking a hot air balloon ride, book it! You won’t regret it!

    via Tripadvisor

    rebeccagZ4038NT · August 2026

    Awesome Experience

    The crew was incredibly kind and thoughtful. With fake joints, I don’t bend as easily. They provided a step stool and were ready to assist climbing in and out of the basket. The pilots were funny and shared great stories. It was fabulously peaceful and beautiful. Even watching the set up and packing was cool. I celebrated “no more chemo” with my daughter. They were genuinely happy with me. Wonderful people! Don’t wait! Fly Black Hills Balloons!!

    via Tripadvisor

    ASHTON_R · August 2026

    Truly amazing!!!

    Incredible experience!!! Seeing the sun rose over the mountains was beautiful. So peaceful- and our guide was great too. We felt completely safe. He was very knowledgeable and all around accommodating. Bucket list adventure, worth every penny 🙏🏼🤙🏼

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    184
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Why this scores 86

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)99
    Review evidence (18% weight)100
    Booking momentum (14% weight)100
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)92
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Custer.

    How much does Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills cost?

    +

    Prices start at $375 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Custer usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills take?

    +

    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Custer is not rushed.

    Is Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 86 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 527 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Custer, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills?

    +

    Around 184 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Custer can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Custer and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Custer within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Custer?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Custer experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Discover Custer State Park A Self Guided Audio Driving Tour, Wind Cave National Park GPS Audio Tour — Cave Tour Not Included, The Only Full Day - Jeep Bison Safari - W/ Lakeside Picnic Lunch. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Custer?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Custer?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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