Palm Springs Aerial Tram
World’s Largest Rotating Tram Allows For Inspiring Views
The city of Palm Springs is home to a unique aerial tram that climbs nearby mountains and transports guests to new heights. No visit to Palm Springs is complete without braving the vertical climb aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tram.
Flora and Fauna from Sonora Desert to Alaska
The Valley Station (2,643 ft above sea level) begins the 2.5-mile journey up the sheer mountain face of Mount St. Jacinto. As the tram slowly rotates and gently sways over each of it's five towers, the flora and fauna changes, reflecting different climactic and geographic environments. Yucca plants and palm trees give way to scrub oaks and mountain mahogany and finally, at the Mountain Station (8,516 ft), evergreens flourish. The ascent has been compared to driving from the Sonora Desert to Alaska.
History of the Palm Springs Aerial Tram
Electrical Engineer Francis F. Crocker’s dream of a tram became reality on September 12, 1963. The ingenious use of helicopters in building four of the five towers, airlifting men and materials for over 23,000 missions during the 26 months of construction, helped designate the tram as a Civil Engineering Landmark in the 1980s. In 2001 the original cars were replaced by the world’s largest rotating tramcars, showcasing a 360-degree view of rugged Chino Canyon. Over 13 million people have ridden the trams since that inaugural ride 45 years ago.
Mount San Jacinto State Park
Disembarking from the Mountain Station, visitors will first notice the chilling 40-degree temperature difference from the desert valley floor. Miles of hiking trails, camping spots, and free nature walks are available in the summer months. Winter brings with it snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, with rental equipment available from mid-November to mid-April. Permits are required for some activities, so be sure to check in with the Rangers.
Dining at the Top
A break-taking view and fine California cuisine are on the menu at Peaks Restaurant. Located at the Mountain Station, this restaurant specializes in local fare, gathering ingredients from nearby Chocella Valley.
Casual food is offered in the Pines Café, a cafeteria style restaurant, also located in the Mountain Station. Both are open for lunch and dinner.
Hours, Rates and Directions
The Palm Springs Aerial Tram hours of operation:
Monday-Friday: Trams begin at 10A, departing every 30 minutes, until 8P.
Saturday-Sunday: Trams begin at 8A, departing every 30 minutes, until 8P.
(The last return from the Mountain Station is at 9:30P every night.)
From Los Angeles, approximately two hours via car.
Traveling eastbound on Interstate 10 exit Highway 111 to Palm Springs, travel 8 miles to the first signal and turn right at Tramway Road. The Valley Station is located approximately 4 miles up Tramway Road.
Ticket costs are: Adult $22.25, Children (3-12) $15.25, Seniors (60+) $20.25. Tickets are only available to purchase at the Valley Station.
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