Community Forums

walter abela · 06-25-2016, 01:59 PM

would it be an issue if i trailer my toad into dry camping area?
or better off flat towing... trying to stay out of a traffic situation.
ok what would you do? very experienced mh driver never been there
and do not know if it would be packed in like sardines. thanks for input
in regards to ballon festival

walter abela · 06-25-2016, 02:04 PM

i would like this respond to the albuquerque ballon festival...

JohnFreyja · 06-25-2016, 02:13 PM

The last time I was there it was quite crowded and just enough space for my 40' motorhome and park car in front.

jacwjames · 06-25-2016, 02:45 PM

We went last year. I guess it depends on where you stay as there are 4 different lots with varying amounts of room. We stayed at the VIP East lot, we didn't have a clue what to expect when we made the reservation but were pleased with our choice, great view of the grounds for watching early in the morning and during the lift offs. We got up early every morning, what a site.

We actually stayed at the Sandia Casino the night before, this area was crammed tight with campers parked any way they could. Made it difficult getting around. My wife drove the toad over separate to the balloon fesival which made it a lot easier to park. We got there right at noon and ended up getting a front row site that overlooked the grounds.

We kept the toad unhitched until we pulled out of our spot and then hooked up the toad.

After our stay at the balloon festival we made tour of norther NM, visiting Santa Fee, Las Alamos, then to Taos. We then stopped back at the Sandia Casino to spend a couple more days there. Then headed south to Los Cruses for 4 days.

twogypsies · 06-25-2016, 04:22 PM

The dry camping area of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is a extremely huge area with very wide street. You will not have a problems with the toad on a trailer. There's plenty of room to maneuver and to get it off the trailer if you want.

The free shuttle comes by approximately every 15 minutes and makes many stops within the dry camping area. They are marked. It's the very best way to get to the balloon grounds. Even if you're not at the bus stop but are walking toward it, wave you arm and they'll stop for you. It's very low-key.

We spent 10 nights there with a specific group and enjoyed it thoroughly. If you want, sign up to crew for a balloon and you just might get a free ride. We did! No experience necessary. They need lots of help for the balloon launch and chasing them down when they land. You do it as a group. You're not alone. It's a great experience learning the ins and outs of ballooning. Have a great time!

I assume you have made reservations. I don't believe you can just drive in unless you're lucky to get a spot. Also, at certain times of the day the roads leading into the festival area are closed so be sure to read all the information.

walter abela · 06-26-2016, 08:10 AM

thanks for all your input.... now have time to better plan the options
still think its still always better to flat tow, short of buying a towable
toad, decisions , decisions thanks again