Yes, You Can Bring Your Own Food on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

A beer that I brought from home at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
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By Published On: May 14, 2018Last Updated: December 20, 2025

A trip up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway can turn into a full day adventure. In about 10 minutes, you ride from the desert floor up to roughly 8,500 feet in a rotating tram car, where the air is cooler, the views are better, and depending on the season, you might even see snow.

And despite what many people assume, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks up the Tramway.

You’re Allowed to Bring Your Own Food and Drinks

Yes, really. Even though the Mountain Station has a restaurant, bar, and food counter, visitors are permitted to bring their own food and non-glass beverages onto the tram.

This makes it easy to plan a picnic after a hike, enjoy snacks with friends or family, or simply avoid paying resort-level prices for lunch.

According to the Tramway, outside food is allowed as long as visitors are respectful and clean up after themselves.

What to Know Before You Pack

  • Pack food in a backpack, cooler, or picnic bag
  • Avoid glass containers
  • Be mindful of wildlife and keep food secured
  • Always pack out what you pack in

If you plan to hike and don’t want to carry food with you all day, there are lockers available at the Valley Station.

Locker Rentals at the Valley Station

The Tramway offers lockers on the lower level of the Valley Station, which are perfect if you plan to hike before eating.

  • Standard lockers: approximately $1.25
  • Larger lockers: approximately $1.50

Lockers operate on quarters, and there is a change machine available if you only have dollar bills.

Using a locker lets you hike unencumbered and return later for a relaxed meal at the Mountain Station.

A Perfect Pairing with Hiking

Many visitors make a day of it by hiking trails like Round Valley or tackling longer routes toward San Jacinto Peak, then returning to the Mountain Station to eat.

There’s something especially satisfying about finishing a hike, finding a scenic spot, and enjoying food you brought with you while taking in the views.

Hiking trails at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Be Respectful of the Mountain

While bringing your own food is allowed, visitors are expected to respect the environment.

Please dispose of all trash properly, avoid feeding wildlife, and help keep the Tramway and surrounding wilderness clean for everyone.

Related: How to get discounted Palm Springs Tram tickets

Related: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway tips for first-time visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can you really bring food on the Palm Springs Tram?

    Yes. Outside food is allowed on the Tramway, provided it follows posted rules and visitors clean up after themselves.

  • Can you bring alcohol on the Tram?

    Alcohol is generally allowed in non-glass containers, but visitors should drink responsibly and follow Tramway policies.

  • Are coolers allowed?

    Small coolers and backpacks are typically fine, especially if they fit comfortably in the tram car.

     

  • Is buying food at the top required?

    No. Purchasing food or drinks at the Mountain Station is optional.

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Written by : Casey Dolan

Casey is the founder of Cactus Hugs and also works with local businesses on their websites and digital marketing. Learn more (and hire!) him here. Please, send him your news tips and your whiskey!