Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

What is the Palm Springs Tramway?

• Address: 1 Tram Way Palm Springs, CA
• Distance from us:  7.5 miles

Since its opening in 1963, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has transported countless visitors over two-and-a-half miles over Chino Canyon to the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area.

The Palm Springs Tramway is known for having the world’s largest rotating tramcars, whose slow rotation offers unparalleled views of the surrounding area to the 80 passengers that can ride.

How do Aerial Trams Work?

The Palm Springs tramway works through a complex system of cables, drive gears and hydraulics, which was part of the reason why the tram was referred to as the “eighth wonder of the world”.

There are five towers supporting an incredibly dense cable which the tram rides on. When going up, the cable is pulled by a massive drive wheel. On the way down, a counterweight allows the trams to travel to the Valley Station via gravity only. A 120 ton counterweight keeps tension on the track cable during travel.

During travel in both directions, the tram car will slowly rotate.

Things to Do at the Mountain Station

Once at the top, visitors will find that there are plenty of things to do, especially for lovers of the outdoors. From hiking to fine dining, you can easily spend an entire day near the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area.

Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area

Mt San Jacinto State Park boasts over 14,000 acres of pristine landscapes. One of the biggest draws for tourists is the over 50 miles of hiking trails that vary in both length and difficulty and offer stellar views of the surrounding region. 

In addition to the trails, visitors can also opt for a Guided Nature Walk, led by a knowledgeable volunteer that will allow you to learn more about the local environment. The walks require no advance registration and no charge.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Dining

There are two options for dining while at the Mountain Station: Pines Cafe, and Peaks Restaurant. There is also a full cocktail bar at the Lookout Lounge.

Pines Cafe

• Hours: Mon-Fri: 10AM - 8:30PM; Sat-Sun: 8AM - 8:30PM

The Pines Cafe is a cafeteria-style restaurant that offers simple, yet delicious meals. While the menu changes fairly frequently, one can expect classics such as roasted vegetables, lasagna, and roasted chicken dinners. You can also purchase prepackaged sandwiches, salads, and drinks to take on the trail.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway does offer a ride and dine combination ticket starting at 4 PM daily.

Peaks Restaurant

• Lunch: Daily, 11 AM - 4 PM
• Dinner: Daily 5 PM - 7:30 PM

Named one of the best cliffside restaurants in the country by Architectural Digest, Peaks Restaurant pairs fine dining with fantastic views.

Experience culinary masterpieces that include local, fresh vegetables as well as local bread and dry-aged meats and poultry. They also offer excellent seafood and pasta dishes.

Reservations are recommended.