Red Rock Balloon Rally: "Baby, It's Cold Outside!"

Above, balloons being readied for launching. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Text and photos by Armand Vaquer

This morning was the first day of this year's Red Rock Balloon Rally at Red Rock Park near Gallup, New Mexico.

I got up early to get ready to go for the 7:30 launch of the balloons.

I checked the weather, particularly the temperature, before going and the forecast was around 25°, which what it turned out to be.

Above, yours truly
 all bundled up.

Last year, I camped at the RV campground near the launch area, so I was not aware that the park charges $5.00 for parking. I didn't have any cash on me so I went a mile away to Fire Rock Navajo Casino to use their ATM. While there, I found that the casino has free coffee, so I got myself a cup and headed back to Red Rock Park.

The balloonists were beginning to get their balloons ready to be launched when I got back. I grabbed my camera and the coffee and walked a short distance to the launch area.

At around 8:00, the balloons began their ascensions. It is my guess that there were about 50-60 balloons.

Although I was enjoying the sights of the ascending balloons, I had to remove my gloves to shoot photographs. Whenever I did, the air temperature was biting cold and it got to be painful to my hands at times.

After most of the balloons were in the air (they were floating towards Gallup), I headed back to the car to leave.

I was able to see balloons ten miles away at the Flying J and from my street. I had a good time as this was the first time I've witnessed hot-air balloons up close being launched. I plan to return next year.

Above, balloons ten miles away from my street in Jamestown. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The rally continues tomorrow and Sunday (weather permitting).

Here's some more photos: