While the overall experience was fairly decent, there were parts that were strange.
We originally were planned to go on a Saturday morning, having to meet at Deer Valley Airport at 5:15 am, but that trip was cancelled due to wind. Therefore we rescheduled, that rescheduling was not a problem, just an inconvenience.
We ended up going the following Saturday. Again we had to wake up bright and early to meet at 5:15 and then headed in a 15 passenger van to the launch location. Once at the launch location we waited for the balloon to fill up and boom, lift off, and we were up and away!
There were 12 of us in the basket, including the pilot, which was pretty cramped, there was not enough room for everyone to look out, so my boyfriend and I had to take turns. WEAR A HAT AND SLEEVED SHIRT, the flame is extremely hot and can cause discomfort if you are not prepared for it. They provided hats for those of us who were not aware.
We were in flight for about 45 minutes, not a second of it was boring. Upon landing we were supposed to be greeted with a catered breakfast, but this was unable to happen because our pilot chose to land on the wrong side of a wash and the van could not get to us. Therefore we spend about 30 minutes wandering in the desert watching the van drive parallel to us, unable to get to us. Finally the van got stuck in a wash, we walked over to them and they rapidly setup our breakfast, which was delicious!! Then they popped open two bottles of champagne, which was much needed.
Overall it was enjoyable, just a few hiccups along the way! :)