The idea for a tram that would transport people from the heat of the desert up to the cool air of the snow-covered San Jacinto peak was conceived in 1935, but it took many years for the project to finally take shape and become a reality. The first ride up the canyon was taken on September 12, 1963. Now, this unique attraction has become a truly unforgettable adventure in Southern California.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is unlike any tram, lift, or sky ride you will experience elsewhere, and it begins as you step aboard the world’s largest rotating tram cars.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway/Google Local
Your adventure begins at the Valley Station in Palm Springs. Parking is available at the station, including overnight parking if you are planning to camp at the peak.
Denny Vanerburg/Google Local
In 1998, the original tramway program was modernized. The existing facilities were updated and the first rotating cars were constructed and installed.
Justin Choi/Google Local
These modern tram cars give riders 360-degree views of the desert floor, the oasis-like town of Palm Springs, and the giant granite rocks on the mountain. You can just imagine the sunset views from this unique vantage point as the tram makes its way up or down the canyon.
Nicolas QUERO-RIO/Google Local
In just about 10 minutes, the tramway travels over two and a half miles and rises almost 6,000 feet up the steep cliffs of Chino Canyon. As you approach the summit, you get a full view of the beautiful Mountain Station.
Raul Soto/Google Local
At the Mountain Station, two restaurants and a cocktail lounge have glass walls for unparalleled views while you dine.
mblinps/TripAdvisor
The station also has multiple observation decks, telescopes, a natural history museum, a gift shop, the Adventure Center, and theaters showing videos from the tram’s construction.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway During winter, you can rent snow shoes or cross-country skis from the Adventure Shop or buy a sled at the gift shop. You can also bring your own plastic sleds to play on the mountain.
As you explore the peak, you will enjoy views of the valley below which is shaped by a network of earthquake faults, as well as the Salton Sea which was formed by flooding of the Colorado River.
Jason Anspach/Google Local
Each season brings a completely new experience and vastly different views throughout the trip.
Deborah Vouaux/Google Local No matter what time of year you visit, there is about a 30-40 degree temperature difference between the base and the mountaintop.
About 50 miles of incredible hiking trails in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument begin at the Mountain Station.
Martinerob13/TripAdvisor
Have you ever ridden the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway? Tell us all about your unforgettable Southern California adventure! Learn more and plan your adventure by visiting the official Palm Springs Aerial Tramway website and Facebook page. Craving more? Check out several more adventures you can have in SoCal.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway/Google Local
Denny Vanerburg/Google Local
Justin Choi/Google Local
Nicolas QUERO-RIO/Google Local
Raul Soto/Google Local
mblinps/TripAdvisor
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
During winter, you can rent snow shoes or cross-country skis from the Adventure Shop or buy a sled at the gift shop. You can also bring your own plastic sleds to play on the mountain.
Jason Anspach/Google Local
Deborah Vouaux/Google Local
No matter what time of year you visit, there is about a 30-40 degree temperature difference between the base and the mountaintop.
Martinerob13/TripAdvisor
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Address: 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262, USA
