Life & Work with Myers Marissa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Myers Marissa. They and their team shared their story with us below:

Once upon a time, nestled in the picturesque town of Pagosa Springs, Colorado, there emerged an extraordinary company called “Pagosa Adventure.” With its mission to create unforgettable experiences and instill a sense of awe in each adventurer, the company has become synonymous with exhilarating hot-air balloon rides and thrilling rafting expeditions.

From humble beginnings, Pagosa Adventure was rekindled from the original hot air balloon ride company started in the early 1980s which was the brainchild of Colleen Marchand, Marissa’s mom. Marissa and Cody met hot air ballooning and with her love of flying and his love of rafting. Pagosa Adventure was dreamt into existence. They share an insatiable appetite for exploration and a deep love for the wild outdoors and each other. With their combined expertise in hot-air ballooning and white-water rafting, it only seemed natural for them to create a venture that could bring together their passions and share them with others.

The journey to their dream, however, was far from smooth sailing. Cody and Marissa faced numerous obstacles, from securing the necessary F.A.A. ratings and licenses to endless hours of developing a meticulous safety plan. But their unwavering dedication and determination propelled them forward, even amidst uncertainties and setbacks including the pandemic. Every challenge was met with resilience and a firm belief in their vision, inspiring them to push beyond their comfort zones and make their dreams come true.

Finally, after months of preparation, the day arrived when Pagosa Adventure was ready to take off, literally. With the rising sun casting a golden hue over the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, their first hot air balloon ascended to the skies with its excited passengers on board. As they soared above the majestic snow-crested peaks, a sense of tranquility enveloped the group. The panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, sprawling forests, and crystal-clear lakes left everyone speechless, the beauty of nature captivating their hearts.

Meanwhile, just a few miles downstream, another group embarked on an adrenaline-fueled journey down the roaring river. Equipped with safety gear and guided by their expert guide, Cody, they navigated through raging rapids, their collective laughter and cheers echoing against the canyon walls. The thrill of white-water rafting swirled around them, leaving a trail of unforgettable memories etched into their souls.

Word spread like wildfire about the extraordinary experiences offered by Pagosa Adventure. Visitors from near and far flocked to the idyllic town, eager to embark on these once-in-a-lifetime escapades. Families laughed together, friends bonded, and even timid souls discovered their adventurous sides, all thanks to the magic woven by Cody and Marissa’s brainchild.

The success of Pagosa Adventure did not come without challenges, of course. Nature itself brought forth unexpected obstacles, like unpredictable weather patterns and fluctuating water levels in the river. Yet, at every turn, Cody and Marissa’s commitment to safety and customer satisfaction remained unwavering. What began as a single pilot and a single raft guide has grown into a flourishing company employing over 20 people! Their team of experienced pilots and rafting guides ensure that every adventure is both awe-inspiring and secure, creating an environment where everyone feels the exhilaration of pushing their boundaries while still in capable hands.

As the sun kissed the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sky, residents, and visitors alike revel in the spirit of Pagosa Adventure. The company has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of the town, creating a community of explorers bound by a shared love for the great outdoors. Cody and Marissa believe that adventure is not limited to their expeditions alone; it is a mindset, a way of life.

Pagosa Adventure continues to grow, expanding its horizons into new realms of outdoor imagination. The company hopes to offer not just hot air balloon rides and white-water rafting, but also guided hikes, zipline tours, and camping adventures, all designed to ignite the fire of adventure within each individual.

Throughout the outskirts of Pagosa Springs, a mystical aura surrounds the company, as whispers of extraordinary experiences and thrilling escapades fill the air. Pagosa Adventure stands tall as a testament to the power of dreams, love, and the profound connection that humans share with nature.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey to their dream, however, was far from smooth sailing. Cody and Marissa faced numerous obstacles, from securing the necessary F.A.A. ratings and licenses to endless hours of developing a meticulous safety plan.

But their unwavering dedication and determination propelled them forward, even amidst uncertainties and setbacks including the pandemic. Every challenge was met with resilience and a firm belief in their vision, inspiring them to push beyond their comfort zones and make their dreams come true

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Pagosa Adventure is a company set above the rest.

Marissa’s mom, Colleen was one of the first and few hot air balloon ride operators in the early 1980’s and Marissa remains one of just a handful out there today. And not only that but Pagosa Adventure is the only company in the world that provides the amazing experience of hot air ballooning and rafting combined. Other companies may book for both activities, however, there is no other company out there that your balloon pilot in the morning will likely be your raft guide in the afternoon.

Overall, the combination of their experience, personalized approach, safety focus, stunning locations, commitment to sustainability, and exceptional customer service makes Pagosa Adventure stand out among other adventure companies in the hot air ballooning and rafting industry.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Pagosa Adventure hopes to expand and develop a hot air ballooning community in Pagosa Springs, with balloon ports, and restaurants focused on experiencing ballooning from the ground and involving more of the local community in the adventure lifestyle.

Pagosa Adventure also hopes to add more adventures to their experiences and add things like zip-lining, hiking, and canyon tours.

Pricing:

• Hot air balloon rides start at $170 per person
• Raft trips start at $69
• Private hot-air balloon rides are available.
• private boating experiences are available.

Contact Info:

• Website: PagosaAdventure.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pagosaadventure
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdventurePagosa

Image Credits
Jenny Heckmann,  Shelby Santill, and Marissa/Cody Myers