The Ultimate Guide to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Palm Springs. It offers a unique blend of breathtaking views, exhilarating outdoor activities, and delightful dining options. This guide will help you make the most of your trip to the tramway.

Getting There

Palm Springs Aerial Tram is located at 1 Tram Road. You will see the large sign by the Palm Springs Visitor Center. Head up Tram Road, and you will come to a parking gate.

There is a $15 parking fee for cars and motorcycles. The parking lot is located near the entrance, and a free shuttle service is available to take visitors from the lot to the Valley Station if needed. Parking opens at 7 a.m. daily. They don’t accept bills larger than $20. If you are local, please show your ID to have the parking fee waived.

If you are camping overnight in Mt. San Jacinto State Park, you will need a parking pass. Please advise security officers at the gate of your overnight stay so they can direct you to the appropriate lot. Place the parking receipt on the dashboard of your vehicle when staying overnight.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Valley Station

The Valley Station is the starting point for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway adventure, a marvel of engineering and a testament to human ingenuity. The tramway itself was the vision of Francis Crocker, a young electrical engineer who, in 1935, dreamed of “going up there where it’s nice and cool” after experiencing the blistering desert heat. This dream eventually led to the creation of the tramway, which was completed in 1963 after overcoming significant engineering challenges and financial hurdles.

The construction of the tramway was a monumental task that took over two decades to realize. The rugged terrain and steep cliffs of Chino Canyon posed significant obstacles. Despite these challenges, the project was completed with innovative solutions, including the use of helicopters to transport construction materials to remote locations. The tramway officially opened to the public on September 12, 1963, and has since become one of Palm Springs most iconic attractions.

Architecture: The Valley Station is a blend of modernist architecture and functional design, reflecting the midcentury modern style that Palm Springs is famous for. The building was designed by Albert Frey, a prominent architect known for his innovative designs that harmonize with the desert landscape. The station’s sleek lines, large glass windows, and use of natural materials like stone and wood create a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Gift Shop: The gift shop at the Valley Station is a great place to pick up souvenirs, including apparel, postcards, and unique gifts that commemorate your visit to the tramway. It’s the perfect spot to find a memento of your adventure.

Ticketing: Tickets for the tramway can be purchased at the Valley Station, but buying them online in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. This helps avoid long lines and ensures you have a spot on the tramcar at your preferred time. When you purchase online, you will select the date and time. If tickets are sold out online, you can still purchase them at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s ticket booth on the day of your visit.

Adults 11 – 64, $34.95  |  Adults 65+, $31.95 |  Children 3 – 10, $20.95     Buy Tickets

The online price includes a $2 online processing fee. Children under 2 are free but require a boarding pass, which can only be obtained on the day of your visit from the Tram’s ticket booth. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older.

Note: Tickets are not for sale at the Palm Springs Visitor Center.

The Valley Station has all the amenities you need for a comfortable visit. Restrooms, seating areas, and a small café are available for your convenience. The café offers light snacks and beverages, perfect for a quick refreshment before your tram ride.

Boarding the Tram: Visitors begin their adventure at the Valley Station, situated at an elevation of 2,643 feet. After purchasing tickets and exploring the Valley Station, guests board one of the two rotating tramcars. Each tramcar can carry up to 80 passengers and provides a smooth and stable ride, making it accessible for all ages. The tramcars depart about every 20 – 30 minutes (more frequent during busy times), and the ride itself is a breathtaking experience.

The Ascent: As the tramcar ascends 2.5 miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon, it slowly rotates, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the desert below and the rugged mountain landscape. The ride elevates passengers to 8,516 feet, transitioning from the arid desert environment to a cool, pine-covered alpine forest. The temperature can drop significantly, often by 30 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a refreshing escape from the desert heat. Dress accordingly.

If you are uncomfortable with hights, it is recommended to sit or stand in the center of the the tramcar where the floor does not rotate.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Mountain Station

The Mountain Station is the crowning jewel of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway experience. Perched at an elevation of 8,516 feet, this alpine oasis offers a dramatic change in scenery, climate, and atmosphere from the desert floor below. Completed in 1963 alongside the Valley Station, the Mountain Station is the hub for various activities, dining options, and breathtaking views.

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 Jacinot 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 limited 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 provides an excellent opportunity for snowshoeing, with various trails that range 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: There are designated areas for sledding near the Mountain Station, providing 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 approximately one month for maintenance every year. It is tentatively schedule for maintenance September 9 – October 6, 2024.

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Palm Springs Hiking Trail: Mt. San Jacinto Peak

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