Crews keep balloons in check during Magic City Hot Air Balloon Rally.

THESE HOT AIR BALLOONS glowed in a park just off I-90 in Billings, Montana, lighting up the dusk as burners flared, and drawing my attention away from keeping my car on the road.

Luckily, I had my camera with me.

I photographed this US Bank crew member wrangling his balloon during Billings’ annual Magic City Hot Air Balloon Rally.

Billings has some of the most favorable conditions in the state for hot air ballooning with its cool nighttime temperatures, and high number of rain-free days. The Rally, which is in its 15th year, takes place near the end of July. The best time to see the balloons is during the early morning take-offs or at sunset.

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About this author:

Eric Warren has an unhealthy love of  all types of transportation, and is addicted to long stretches of open road.

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More by this author:

American Gods Roadtrip
Montana Roadtrip in 1,062 Images
Photo Essay: Maine Coast Roadtrip – pt. 1, OOB