The Cactus Hugs Guide to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

What to Expect Before You Go

Whether you live in Palm Springs or you’re visiting for the first time, riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the few experiences in the Coachella Valley that genuinely feels different from everything around it.

In about 12 minutes, the tram carries you from the desert floor at 2,643 feet to the Mountain Station at 8,516 feet. Temperatures are often 30–40 degrees cooler, and in winter it’s not unusual to step off into snow while Palm Springs is still warm and sunny.

It’s impressive, it’s unique, and it’s usually worth doing. It’s also not a quick stop, and expectations matter more than most people realize.

What the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Actually Is

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world. Two large tram cars travel up and down the mountain, slowly rotating so everyone gets a view without fighting for window space.

The ride climbs more than 6,000 feet in elevation and passes five towers along the way. It’s generally smooth, though there is some noticeable swaying near the towers, especially the third one. It’s normal, but holding the rail isn’t a bad idea if you prefer feeling grounded in reality.

During busy periods, tram cars can feel crowded, and backpacks are usually placed on the floor to keep walkways clear.

What the Experience Feels Like

The contrast is the whole point. You board the tram in the desert and step off into an alpine environment with pine trees, cooler air, and completely different scenery.

Most visitors spend between one and three hours at the top. Some people wander the observation decks and head back down fairly quickly. Others linger, walk short trails, have a drink, or just enjoy not sweating for a while.

Crowds tend to thin out quickly once you leave the Mountain Station building. The further you walk, the quieter it gets. This surprises a lot of first-time visitors who assume it will feel packed everywhere.

When Is the Best Time to Ride the Tram?

Timing makes a big difference.

Midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) is usually the least crowded.
Holidays and long weekends can involve very long wait times.
Sunset hours often create bottlenecks as many people try to head down at once.
Early mornings attract hikers and campers.

If you want to minimize waiting, arrive earlier in the day or plan to stay up top until after sunset crowds thin out.

What You Can Do at the Top

The Mountain Station offers observation decks, short walks, small exhibits, restrooms, and on-site dining options. You can grab a drink, take photos, or simply enjoy the view.

More importantly, the station provides direct access to Mount San Jacinto State Park. This is where hiking begins, ranging from easy scenic loops to longer backcountry routes.

If hiking is part of your plan, that’s a different experience with different preparation. Casual visitors who don’t plan to hike can still enjoy the tram without any special gear.

For detailed trail information and hiking preparation, see our full guide to hiking at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

Who This Is For (And Who Should Skip It)

This is a good fit if you:

Are visiting Palm Springs for the first time
Want a dramatic scenery change without a long drive
Enjoy short walks, views, or light hiking
Want relief from summer heat

You may want to skip it if you:

Hate waiting in lines or dealing with crowds
Expect a quick 15-minute photo stop
Are visiting only during peak holiday periods with limited time

Practical Things to Know Before You Go

Location: 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs (north end of town)
Drive time: About 10 minutes from downtown Palm Springs, 30 minutes from Palm Desert
Parking: Paid parking at the Valley Station; free for locals and season pass holders
Weather: Always expect it to be much cooler at the top

Tram Way itself is steep and winding. A car or rideshare is recommended unless you’re intentionally turning the visit into a workout.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re planning a deeper visit, these guides will help:

For current hours, ticket prices, and operating updates, visit the official Palm Springs Aerial Tramway website.

Take your time, dress for the temperature change, and don’t underestimate how different it feels at 8,500 feet.