A quick 14-minute drive from Rapid City, there's an iconic location that attracts outdoor explorers and history connoisseurs alike. Hidden among the pines and rolling hills of the forest is a place where world records were shattered, and history was made. It's called the Stratobowl, and it's the birthplace of the Space Age.

 

drone shot over the stratobowl in the black hills of south dakota where hot air balloons launch
 


The Stratobowl transformed from a stunning scenic location into a historic launching pad in 1934 when the Army Air Corps and National Geographic Society chose it as the site to launch a manned balloon flight into the Stratosphere. The 400-feet-deep limestone walls of the Stratobowl provided the perfect shelter needed to inflate the largest gas balloon ever flown by humankind. In fact, it was four to five times larger than any other balloon previously flown. The balloon needed to be enormous to carry the weight of over a ton in scientific instruments plus passengers into the stratosphere. Unfortunately, Explorer I only reached 60,000 feet above the earth before experiencing a tear in the balloon's fabric, causing the crew to bail out as the balloon plummeted back down to earth and exploded. All three crew members and some of the equipment were able to parachute down before the crash.

 

 

historic shots showing the balloon and crew members on the historic stratobowl balloon in Rapid City
Rapid City Public Library


After a year of extensive research and interviews about the incident, adjustments made to Explorer I and the group was ready for a second try with Explorer II. On November 11, 1935, over 35,000 spectators hiked out to watch the launch of Explorer II. Floating up and out of the Stratobowl, Explorer II reached a new world record of 72,935 feet. The flight lasted 80 minutes, and set a record that would stand for 21 years.

 

first photo showing the curvature of the earth against space shot from the Stratobowl in Rapid City, SD
Rapid City Public Library


This flight collected a significant amount of first-ever information regarding high-altitude atmospheric conditions. In fact, it was during this flight that they captured the first photo showing the curvature of the Earth.

 

hot air balloons coming out of the Stratobowl canyon in the black hills of south dakota
 


Now, every September, ten to twelve experienced balloonists gather at the Stratobowl to celebrate the anniversary of that historic flight at an event called the Stratobowl Historic Hot Air Balloon Launch. Launching at sunrise every morning for three days, weather permitting, spectators gather like they did almost 80 years ago to watch from the canyon walls as the Stratobowl transform back into an iconic launching pad. During the event you'll witness why this location served as the perfect spot for the historic launch. The canyon walls block the wind, allowing the balloons to fill up and ascend from the forest floor below. As soon as the balloons break above the protective barrier of the canyon, the breeze sweeps them away over the pine trees of the Black Hills.

 

Tips for Attending the Stratobowl Event

 

spectators of the stratobowl event sitting on rocks overlooking the event start in the black hills

 

  • Monitor the event's Facebook page for day-of updates. This is where you'll learn about weather postponements or cancellations on the day of the event.
  • Head out early. The drive from Rapid City is about 14 minutes, but then you'll have to hike just under a mile on the Stratobowl Rim Trail (in the dark) to claim a spot situated above the launch location (Spectators are not allowed down where the balloons launch from).
  • Bring: flashlights, blankets, chairs, hot coffee or chocolate and wear layers since September mornings are cooler. If you bring snacks and drinks be sure to pack out what you brought in and leave no trace. 
  • This is a rustic event; there are no bathrooms and no vendors. It's just you, nature, and the soft whooshing of hot air balloons.

 

Catch Your Own Flight

 

Black hills balloon stour hot air balloon taking flight with the sunrise over the black hills of south dakota

 

Can't make it for the event but still want to experience the magic of hot air balloons and floating above the Black Hills? You're in luck. From May 1st through October 31st, you can catch a ride with Black Hills Balloons. They fly daily at sunrise, weather dependent, and take you on one of the most memorable tours offered in our area. If your visit is outside of these dates, give them a call. You might be able to reserve a special winter flight.

 

Learn More About the Black Hills Area

 

people reading the stratobowl display in the South Dakota Air & Space Museum

 

Want to dive deeper into the fascinating history of the Stratobowl? Visit The Journey Museum in Rapid City and the South Dakota Air & Space Museum in Box Elder. Both offer a Stratobowl exhibit showcasing models of the Explorer along with more history on this iconic moment in the Black Hills. Not to mention, both museums cover fascinating history of our area, from geology, paleontology and more at the Journey Museum, to our areas unique military history at South Dakota Air & Space.

 

Hike the Stratobowl Rim Trail

 

winter hiker sitting on the top of the stratobowl rim trail in the black hills of south dakota
 


Year-round hiking can be enjoyed at the Stratobowl Rim Trail! This easy hike is a 1.7-mile out-and-back trail with a parking lot, located right off Highway 16, that overlooks the beauty of truly beautiful canyon.

 

Rapid City offers a wealth of unique events and experiences, from its rich history to its breathtaking natural wonders, it ensures an unforgettable adventure for every traveler. Explore the related content below to find more memorable events you should be attending in the area, or sign up for our monthly newsletter and we will send upcoming events to you.  


 

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