Overview
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a scenic rotating tram car system that transports visitors from the desert floor to the mountaintop of the San Jacinto Mountains. It's a unique way to experience the dramatic change in elevation and climate.
It's one of the largest rotating aerial tramways in the world and offers a unique way to explore the diverse ecosystems of the San Jacinto Mountains.
Location
Address
1 Tramway Road, Palm Springs, California
Neighborhood: Chino Canyon
Coordinates
33.820600, -116.550500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May and October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • wildflowers
- • pleasant weather
summer
hot in the valley, cooler on the mountaintop
- • cool mountain retreat
autumn
cool
- • fall colors
- • hiking trails
winter
cold
- • snow
- • holiday events
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Check weather
- Wear layers
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (some hiking trails)
- • altitude change
- • uneven surfaces
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, layers, hiking shoes or walking shoes, inappropriate clothing for hiking
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • official website
- • 24 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway App
Size: 50 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Hiking trails
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Cafes
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Palm Springs International Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique way to experience the mountains
Historical Significance: Engineering marvel and popular tourist destination since the 1960s
Insider Tips
- Early morning tickets often available
- Best food at mountain station cafe
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cafe at mountain station
- • Ask for guide suggestions at visitor center
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Valley Station
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the tram against the desert backdrop
Result: Stunning landscape shots
Mountain Station
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Panoramic views of the valley
Result: Breathtaking sunset views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Palm Springs Art Museum
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Museum
Moorten Botanical Garden
Distance: 2.5 km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Botanical Garden
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views"
- "Wear layers"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
3
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
$25.75