Palm Springs Aerial Tramway - Palm Springs, CA

May 13, 2007
Details:

• Rotating Tram transports visitors from the Palm Springs valley floor (elevation 2,600 feet) to the San Jacinto Mountain State Park (elevation 10,800 ft).
• The ride lasts about 10 minutes and passes through five distinct ecological zones.
  
• Temperature at the top is about 40 degrees cooler than at the desert floor - please dress accordingly.
  
• Jaw-dropping views of the Coachella Valley in addition to waterfalls (in season) and wildlife (if you are lucky).
• Activities at the top include hiking, nature walks, camping, cross country ski and snowshoeing.

A unique experience, the tram offers a little bit of something for everyone. There is the obvious draw for nature lovers and outdoorsy types. And there is the not-so obvious draw for engineering buffs (this is a celebrated civil engineering marvel), history addicts (its story spans a century), romantics (mountaintop twilight dinner packages available), and desert dwellers seeking shelter from the 100+ degree heat. A one-time visit is essential if only for the ride. A dizzying 8,000 ft elevation gain in 10 minutes coupled with views from a rotating carriage and cool, crisp mountain air at the top is well worth the fee... and the drive.

Directions:

• From 111 and Washington
• Take I-10 West
• Exit Date Palm
• Turn Right on Vista Chino
• Turn Right on N. Palm Canyon Drive
  
• Turn Left on Tramway Road
• The road ends at the entrance to the Tram's Valley Station
  

***Instant gratification - The tram eliminates 8,000 feet of heavy hiking, making the hikes through the wilderness or to the Peak accessible to all willing adventurers. Don't rob yourself of a unique opportunity to truly experience all that the tram has to offer. Even if you don't plan to hike, come prepared for a nice walk in the woods - water, snacks, proper clothing, good shoes. At the top, you may just be hit with the urge to explore.

Trail phogs:

• Desert View Trail
• Round Valley Trail
• Wellmans Divide
  
• San Jacinto Peak

Links:
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Website
Weather Report