About
When the Palm Springs sun is beating down, and the allure of the cool mountains is calling, head to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway!
This iconic engineering marvel has captivated visitors worldwide since its inception in September 1963.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the gateway to the San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area.
It is also known for being the largest rotating aerial tram car globally. A ride on the Tramway is a unique blend of natural beauty and man-made innovation.
The Tramway was conceptualized as a solution to the challenging access to the beautiful, rugged Chino Canyon.
Electrical engineer Francis Crocker dreamed of "going up there where it's nice and cool." His dream took concrete shape with the help of a team of skilled engineers and workers.
After nearly three decades of planning and construction, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway was finally inaugurated.
During the ten-minute journey aboard the Tramway, the cars rotate slowly, offering riders breathtaking vistas of the valley below.
The trip takes you from the desert floor to the peak of Mount San Jacinto, an elevation change of over 6,000 feet.
Riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is often described as 'climbing by flying,' symbolizing the spirit of adventure and exploration embodying the region.
The Tramway has played a significant role in promoting eco-tourism in the region. It has opened up the splendid wilderness of the San Jacinto Mountains to visitors, enabling them to experience the area's diverse flora and fauna.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway continues to be a major attraction for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a bird's eye view of the valley.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
One intriguing feature of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is its rotating tram cars. Unlike standard tram cars, these rotate slowly during the ascent and descent, ensuring passengers get a 360-degree view of the stunning landscape. This feature enhances the overall experience, making every ride a unique adventure.
While the ride is captivating, what awaits you at the top is equally impressive.
At 8,516 feet, the Mountain Station offers panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and beyond. It also serves as the starting point for over 50 miles of hiking trails within the Mount San Jacinto State Park.
Another cool feature is the Tram Road Challenge, an annual 6K uphill run/walk event.
On October 21st, the Tramway opens later to accommodate this event that attracts fitness enthusiasts. Participants race from the bottom of Tram Way road to the tram's Valley Station, climbing 2000 feet in just 3.7 miles!
The Tramway is something you need to experience on your Palm Springs vacation. From the moment you step onto the rotating tram car to the time you spend exploring the wilderness at the top, every moment is filled with awe and excitement.
Local Tips
- Enter their "snow guessing" contest to win free Tramway tickets!
- Check out the mountain-top restaurants for a thrilling dining experience!
- Guided nature hikes are available; check the website for more information.
- Explore the primitive camping spots in the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area.
- Parking is ample but comes with a fee. A free tram takes you from each parking lot to the station.
- You could purchase tickets at the Valley Station if you didn't buy them in advance.
