Everything You Need to Know Before You Go (Tickets, Tips, Hiking & More)
If there’s one experience that defines Palm Springs, it’s the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
In just 10 minutes, you’ll travel from sunbaked desert floor to a cool alpine forest, rising over 8,500 feet while rotating slowly above the cliffs of Chino Canyon. It’s part thrill ride, part nature escape, and part architectural landmark—all in one.
This guide covers exactly how to plan your visit, including when to go, what to wear, what to do at the top, and insider tips most visitors miss.
Quick Tips Before You Go
- Buy tickets online early (they sell out on weekends + holidays)
- Dress in layers (it can be 30–40°F cooler at the top)
- Go early or near sunset for the best light and fewer crowds
- Allow 2–4 hours minimum (longer if you plan to hike)
Where It Is & How to Get There
📍 1 Tramway Road, Palm Springs
The entrance is just off Highway 111 near the iconic Palm Springs Visitor Center—you’ll see the turnoff clearly marked.
- Parking: $15 per vehicle
- Hours: Lot opens at 9 am on weekdays and 7 am on weekends and holidays
- Tip: Bring a card or small bills (nothing larger than $20)
A short shuttle is available if needed, but most visitors can walk to the Valley Station.
Note that the Palm Springs Visitor Center does not sell tram tickets.
A Quick History (Why It’s So Unique)
The tramway was first imagined in 1935 by electrical engineer Francis Crocker, who wanted a way to escape the desert heat.
It took nearly 30 years to complete, finally opening in 1963 after overcoming extreme terrain challenges—including helicopter-assisted construction.
Today, it remains:
- The world’s largest rotating tramcar - one of three and the only one in the U.S.
- One of Palm Springs’ most iconic experiences
- A gateway to over 14,000 acres of wilderness
The Valley Station: Where Your Journey Begins
Designed by modernist architect Albert Frey, the Valley Station blends seamlessly into the desert landscape with clean lines, stone, and glass.
What’s here:
- Ticketing + restrooms
- Gift shop
- Café for quick snacks
- Waiting area before boarding
Pro Tip: Even if tickets are sold out online, a limited number are held for day-of purchase.
The Tram Ride: What It’s Like
This is where things get unforgettable.
- Distance: 2.5 miles
- Elevation gain: 2,643 ft → 8,516 ft
- Duration: ~10 minutes
- Rotation: Slow 360° spin during ascent
You’ll watch the landscape shift dramatically—from desert scrub to pine forest.
Not great with heights? Stand in the center—the rotating floor is less noticeable there.
The Mountain Station: What to Do at the Top
At 8,516 feet, the Mountain Station feels like a completely different world.
Views & Observation Decks
Take in panoramic views of:
- Coachella Valley
- Mount San Jacinto Wilderness
- (On clear days) the Salton Sea
Weather: It's much cooler at the Mountain Station than at the Valley Station, so dress accordingly. It's recommended that you wear layers. Check Weather
Natural History Museum: The Mountain Station houses a small natural history museum that provides fascinating insights into the geology, flora, and fauna of the San Jacinto Mountains. The exhibits include informative displays, photographs, and artifacts highlighting the area's unique ecological and geological features.
Gift Shop: The gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, including apparel, postcards, and unique gifts that commemorate your visit to the tramway. It’s the perfect place to pick up a memento of your adventure.
Observation Decks: One of the main attractions of the Mountain Station is its observation decks. These decks offer panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, Salton Sea, and beyond. On clear days, the views extend for miles, providing excellent photo opportunities and a serene spot to appreciate the area's natural beauty.
Mountain Station Dining
Peaks Restaurant
Peaks Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu highlighting locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy dishes like grilled salmon, prime rib, and vegetarian options, all while taking in the stunning views from the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows. Peaks is an ideal spot for a memorable meal in a unique setting.
Pines Café
For a more casual dining option, head to Pines Café. This cafeteria-style restaurant serves a variety of hearty meals, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and pasta. It’s an excellent place for families and those looking for a quick bite.
Lookout Lounge
The Lookout Lounge is perfect for relaxing with a drink while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Choose from a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails and toast to your adventure on the tramway.
Ride & Dine
Enjoy a ride on the Tram and dinner at Pines Cafe. Ride after 4 pm and dine from 4:30 to 8:30 pm. Reservations are not required. The dinner includes a salad and an entree served with two sides. The menu includes baked chicken, vegetarian lasagna, BBQ pork ribs, and beef burgundy (subject to change).
Adults $43 | Children 10 and under - $29.50 Buy Tickets
Mt. San Jacinto State Park Hiking Trails
The Mountain Station is the gateway to over 50 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
Permits
You must obtain a permit before entering the Wilderness. The permits help limit the number of visitors to ensure solitude and to protect the wilderness area.
The San Jacinto Wilderness is managed by two agencies: The United States Forest Service and the California Department of Parks and Recreation. If you are camping, you must get your permit from the agency that administers the area where you plan to spend the night. Overnight permits issued by either agency are honored for daytime travel through the other agency’s lands.
Day-use permits can be obtained on the day of your trip by visiting one of the ranger stations by the Mountain Station. Day-use permits issued by either agency are honored by both, except during the summer when permits to enter the Wilderness via Devil’s Slide Trail can be obtained only from the U.S. Forest Service.
The State Park charges $5.00 per person for camping permits. There is no fee for hiking permits.
Guided Nature Walks
Guided nature walks are an excellent way to learn about the natural environment at the top of the Tram. Mount San Jacinto State Park Volunteers conduct these walks on Sundays from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. These walks feature a choice of two easy trails–the Desert View Trail, a 1½-mile walk beginning at 11:00 am, and the Long Valley Nature Trail, a ¾-mile loop beginning at 1:30 p.m. No advance registration is required, and there is no charge.
Popular Hikes
Desert View Trail: A relatively easy 1.5-mile loop offering spectacular views of the desert floor.
Round Valley Loop: A moderate 4.5-mile loop through picturesque pine forests and meadows.
San Jacinto Peak: For the more adventurous, this 11-mile round-trip hike takes you to the summit of Mount San Jacinto, one of Southern California’s highest peaks. The hike is strenuous, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.
Remember to carry plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and check trail conditions before setting out.
Mt. San Jacinto State Park Winter Activities
Snowshoeing: The park offers excellent opportunities, with trails ranging from easy to more challenging.
Cross-Country Skiing: The wide-open spaces and trails are perfect for cross-country skiing.
You can bring your equipment or rent skis, boots, and poles at the Adventure Center. The Adventure Center is a short distance from the bottom of the cement path on the West side of the Mountain Station. Equipment cannot be reserved on weekends. You must be at least 18 years old to rent equipment.
Winter Hiking: While some trails may be snow-covered and require snowshoes or skis, others might be accessible for hiking, offering a unique winter hiking experience.
Sledding Areas: Near the Mountain Station, there are designated areas for sledding, which is fun for families and individuals alike.
Stay Informed: Check the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Palm Springs Aerial Tramway websites for the latest updates on winter activities, trail conditions, and safety guidelines.
Hours of Operation
Summer Hours: May 24, 2024 – Sept. 1, 2024
- Monday – Friday: First Tram up at 10:00 am
- Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: First Tram up at 8:00 am
- Sunday – Thursday: Last Tram up at 8:00 pm, Last Tram down at 9:30 pm
- Friday & Saturday: Last Tram up at 9:00 pm, Last Tram down at 10:30 pm
Winter Hours: Sept. 2, 2024 – May 27, 2025
- Monday – Friday: First Tram up at 10:00 am, Last Tram up at 8:00 pm, Last Tram down at 9:30 pm
- Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: First Tram up at 8:00 am. Last Tram up at 8:00 pm, Last Tram down at 9:30 pm
Closure: The Tram closes for approximately one month every year for maintenance, typically in September.
Tickets & Pricing (Quick Guide)
- Adults: ~$34.95
- Seniors: ~$31.95
- Children: ~$20.95
- Under 2: Free (boarding pass required)
💡 Book online in advance for the best availability. Buy Tickets
Pro Tips Most Visitors Miss
- The temperature drop is real— check the temperature and consider bringing a jacket.
- Plan around your return tram time (lines can build up late)
- Combine with a stop at the Palm Springs Visitor Center for architecture + photos
- Stay for sunset, then ride down after dark for a totally different experience
Is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Worth It?
Short answer: absolutely.
It’s one of the few places in the world where you can experience two completely different ecosystems in a single day—with almost no effort required.
Whether you’re here for hiking, views, architecture, or just a break from the heat, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway delivers every time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I cancel my tickets?
Refunds can be issued for unused tickets up to 1 year from the date of purchase, minus the $2 online processing fee per ticket. Call our Sales Office at (760) 325-1449 to have your refund processed. Please have your reservation confirmation number and credit card information ready.
Does the Tram have EV chargers?
In Parking Lot A, there are three level 2 chargers capable of 30A charging and equipped with a Type 1 J1772 connector. There are no fast or superchargers. These are currently offered as a free service. First-come, first-served.
Is the tram car air-conditioned or heated?
No, but the windows are open to allow for ventilation.
How long does the tram ride take?
Approximately ten minutes in each direction.
Are pets allowed?
Only service animals are allowed on the tram. The State Park also restricts pets to service animals.
What is the weather like at the top?
The weather at the Mountain Station is typically 30-40 degrees cooler than on the desert floor.
When is it going to snow?
The Tramway typically sees snowfall from November through April. Be sure to check the 5-day weather forecast or the Tram Cam for the most up-to-date weather conditions.
Do I need a hiking permit?
No permits are needed for Long Valley trails, but a wilderness permit is needed if hiking beyond the ranger station. There is no charge, and it may be obtained upon arrival at the ranger station.
Do I need a camping permit?
The State Park charges $5 per person for camping permits, which may be obtained by calling 951-659-2607 or visiting pstramway.com/camping.
Is the Tram wheelchair accessible?
The Valley Station, the tram car, and the Mountain Station are all wheelchair accessible and A.D.A. compliant. The State Park trails are not A.D.A accessible.
Are there any shuttles or buses to the Tramway from Palm Springs?
There are none, but all local cab companies and rideshare services will pick up patrons at the Tram’s Valley Station.
What is the cost to park? Can I park overnight?
Parking costs $15 for cars and motorcycles. Parking opens at 9 am on Wednesday and 7 am on weekends and holidays. Overnight parking is only permitted if you are camping in the State Park, and a parking pass is required.
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