08/28/2026
Fall mornings don’t get better than hot air balloons over the Animas Valley.
The 10th annual Animas Valley Balloon Rally is back Friday–Sunday, October 16–18, 2026—and it’s completely free (no tickets required). Expect crisp sunrise launches, glowing balloons after dark, and some of the most photo-worthy views of the season.
Quick weekend plan:
Friday (dusk, ~6–7:30 p.m.) – Balloon Glow at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad depot, 479 Main Ave
Saturday (8–8:30 a.m.) – Mass Ascension at Hermosa Meadows Launch Field, 373 Hermosa Meadows Rd
Saturday (9–10 a.m.) – Free children’s tethered balloon rides at Hermosa Meadows
Saturday (6–8 p.m.) – Downtown Balloon Glow at the depot
Saturday (7–9 p.m.) – Animas Valley drive-by glow route (starts near Dalton Ranch Country Club, 589 County Road 252, and PJ’s Gourmet Market at Trimble Crossing, 67 Trimble Lane)
Local tip: Dress warm, arrive early, and bring a flashlight for the evening glow.
If you’re turning Balloon Rally weekend into a getaway, Junction West Durango Riverside Resort makes a relaxing home base along the Animas River—choose from full-hookup RV sites, cabins, or tent sites, then head out for balloons in the morning and downtown lights at night.
Save this for your October plans—and if you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay, check availability at Junction West Durango Riverside Resort.