Hot air balloons can get up to an altitude of 2,500 feet above ground and hold over 100,000 cubic feet of heated air. (Insert your own political comparisons here.)
But we wanted to see a balloon more up close and personal. And, for instance, what happens when they come down?
When a chase vehicle conveniently drove by and waved on Thursday, we decided to chase the chaser.
The balloonist found a convenient-looking field off Woodcock Road, one with no crops, livestock, or power lines. Protocol dictates that permission be granted before landing. The chase vehicle and team went to the nearest house, knocked on the door, and asked. Once OK’d, the balloon came down gently and was grabbed by a team of three runners. As it hovered above ground, they walked the balloon and basket closer to the road where the chase vehicle waited. There were toasts with bubbly beverage, I heard a few “happy anniversaries,” and the ride for paying customers was over.
The balloon is inflated by hot air from propane burners. While it was still inflated, the man on the right walked lines from the top of the balloon to direct where it would fall as it deflated. Then he was joined by the second man and it looked like they stretched the balloon out as it fell.
I’m not sure exactly how it deflates (Is there an opening at the top? Is the air simply allowed to cool?) but it comes down steadily once the process starts. Then it’s time for a group hug: As the balloon flattens, the chasers and other volunteers squeeze it down for transport.
Here’s the basket – the cockpit and guest accommodations. Besides the balloon and the pilot’s skill, it’s all that stands between pilot, passengers, and the elements. (Yes, that’s a camera perched on the side of the basket. It seems like every camera in the western U.S. is visiting Sequim right now.)
The Sequim Balloon Festival runs this weekend through Monday. Balloon rides are $250 per person. That’s rich for my budget, so don’t expect any airborne shots here. The festival includes a classic car show, arts and crafts, music, and more. I’ll post more balloon photos from today’s launch tomorrow.
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So cool! I had the chance to ride a balloon in Masai Mara, Kenya, but I had to wake up at 4am and I said no, because I was very tired that day. You can’t imagine how much I regret it today!
Thanks for allowing me to live vicariously through your great photos and narrative. Wish we could be at our Gardiner home to experience the first-ever Sequim Balloon Festival, but you have made me feel like I am there, even from Southern CA.
Great post Kay! Lucky you to get the chance to shoot the event.
Really interesting to see how quickly they pack it all up. Great shots!
A very enjoyable and informative post. Although I’d also have to say it was full of hot air! 🙂
Wonderful shots Kay!!! Too bad they don’t give a free ride to the Best photographer!!! (that’s you!)
it seems to be so nice riding in one of them. 🙂
This was an excellent adventure! Love when things like this happen. Great photos!
how interesting!
250 dollars! thats too expensive for me as well… 🙁
although im not entirely sure i want to do this anyways….
@Patricia (blush), thank you! I would be presumptuous to call myself a photographer. I lack the technical skills. But I enjoy taking pictures, and certainly enjoy sharing them. I’m glad that you and others like them.
Fantastic shots, Kay… I almost bought a used balloon about 30 years ago, it was five grand… Thank you for sharing on Weekly Top Shot #46!
Beautiful shots, esp the top. Colorful!