On crisp autumn mornings in Pagosa Springs, the sky turns into a canvas of color. Not just from the golden aspens glowing on the hillsides, but from hot air balloons rising silently into the blue, their patchwork shapes drifting above the San Juan River and the rooftops of town. It’s a moment that makes you stop and look up. A moment that feels still and grand all at once.
From our Pagosa Springs Hotel, it’s easy to make ballooning part of your fall getaway. With balloons lifting off just minutes from our front door during the annual ColorFest, or private flights launching nearby, it’s an experience that feels both elevated and entirely grounded in small-town charm.
Whether you’re planning your trip around the festival or just want to add a bucket-list adventure to your stay, here’s everything you need to know.
Fall Foliage From Above
In Pagosa Springs, the leaves don’t just change, they light up. Golden aspens spread across the hillsides like gold nuggets, interspersed with deep greens from the evergreens and pops of orange and red from cottonwoods near the river.
From a hot air balloon, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of it all. You’ll gently drift above the rooftops of downtown, past the steam rising from the hot springs, and over the San Juan River as it winds its way through the valley. On clear days, the views stretch for miles: snow-dusted peaks in the distance, mist hovering above the forests, and a warm autumn glow that softens the whole landscape.
Fall foliage typically peaks in mid-to-late September, depending on weather and elevation, and many guests say seeing the colors from above is one of the most memorable parts of their visit.
Pagosa Springs ColorFest: A Weekend to Remember
For the ultimate hot air balloon experience, time your visit with ColorFest, Pagosa Springs’ beloved annual fall festival. Held every September, this three-day celebration brings together balloon pilots, music lovers, foodies, and festival-goers for a weekend packed with these fun events:
Morning Mass Ascensions
The main event? Over 40 colorful hot air balloons filling the sky in unison. On Saturday and Sunday morning, you can watch them lift off from downtown Pagosa Springs, just minutes from RiverWalk Inn. On Sunday, the balloons take flight over uptown (Park Avenue), offering another chance to witness the spectacle. It’s free, family-friendly, and is an experience like no other.
Bands & Brews Festival
On Saturday afternoon, head to Yamaguchi Park, one of our favorite Parks in Pagosa Springs, for Pagosa’s original craft beer festival. Local breweries, live music, and a laid-back mountain-town vibe make it a crowd favorite.
Passport to Pagosa Wine & Food Festival
If wine and gourmet bites are more your style, don’t miss Passport to Pagosa, also hosted at Yamaguchi Park. Taking place the night before the mass ascension, this event features local restaurants and wines in a relaxed, open-air setting.
Breakfast With Balloons
There’s no better way to start a Saturday than with coffee, live music, and the soft whoosh of balloons rising overhead. This long-standing tradition at Centennial Park (GGP Amphitheater) is held on Saturday and includes a delicious menu: farmer’s egg bites, crispy bacon, pumpkin muffins, mimosas, and coffee. All served with a side of sunrise and hot air balloon views.
Bonus Fun: The Color Run 5K
For a more thrilling way to start the day, join the Color Run 5K on Saturday morning and jog through a splash of colors along the way. Anyone can join until race day, and each participant will receive a white t-shirt to wear, allowing your colors to really shine!
Hot Air Balloon Rides in Pagosa Springs
Not visiting during ColorFest? No worries! You can still take to the skies on your own time.
Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures
Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures offers year-round sunrise flights, weather permitting. Flights typically last about an hour, with panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains and a celebratory Champagne toast after landing. It’s peaceful, awe-inspiring, and a great way to start the day. Due to high demand in September and October, advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Why RiverWalk Inn is the Perfect Base
At RiverWalk Inn, you’re never far from the action, and even closer to the quiet, cozy moments in between. Located right on the San Juan River and just minutes from downtown, the inn offers the perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and mountain-town charm.
During ColorFest weekend, you can step outside in the morning after breakfast and watch dozens of balloons rise from the town below. Some of the best views are right from our backyard. Bring your coffee down to the river path, wrap yourself in a blanket, and enjoy the show without the crowds.
After your own hot air balloon ride with Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures, return to your room, warm up in the hot tub, and plan your next adventure. You’re within walking distance to the best Pagosa Springs restaurants, shops, and more!
With free parking, updated rooms, and a peaceful setting along the water, RiverWalk Inn is your ideal Pagosa Springs, CO hotel, especially in the fall.
Experience Hot Air Balloons in Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs is stunning year-round, but autumn adds an extra layer of beauty. Between the golden leaves, crisp blue skies, and colorful balloons dotting the horizon, it’s no wonder September is one of the most popular months to visit.
Whether you’re here for ColorFest or simply want to see Colorado from a new perspective, a hot air balloon ride is an unforgettable experience and one of the top things to do in Pagosa Springs.
Ready to take your Colorado road trip to new heights? Book your fall stay at RiverWalk Inn and soar above the San Juan Mountains in a hot air balloon.
