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?

No. The Tramway’s current prohibited-items list bans outside alcohol. Bring nonalcoholic drinks instead.

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.

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

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

By Casey DolanPublished On: May 14, 2018Last Updated: October 2, 2026

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 you don’t have to buy lunch at the top. At Cactus Hugs’ last check, visitors could bring their own food, nonalcoholic drinks and reasonably sized coolers up the Tramway.

Bringing Your Own Food and Nonalcoholic Drinks

Even though the Mountain Station has a restaurant, bar, and food counter, packing your own lunch has been an option. Think sandwiches, snacks and something nonalcoholic to drink. You’re feeding your group, not catering a wedding.

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.

The Tramway’s current prohibited-items list specifically bans outside alcohol and says visitors are subject to a bag search before entering the Valley Station. Leave the beer at home. Its online FAQ does not spell out cooler dimensions or locker details, so check with the Tramway before planning around a particular cooler or storage space.

What to Know Before You Pack

Pack food in a backpack, picnic bag or reasonably sized cooler you can comfortably carry
Choose non-glass containers to keep your picnic bag practical
Be mindful of wildlife and keep food secured
Always pack out what you pack in

Lockers Are at the Mountain Station

Cactus Hugs’ last check placed the lockers at the Mountain Station—the upper station. The Valley Station is where you board at the bottom. That distinction matters if your plan is to hike first and eat afterward.

Check locker availability, dimensions, current rental fees and payment methods before relying on one. Don’t assume a cooler will fit just because you can bring it aboard.

For current details, use the Tramway’s official visitor information or call (888) 515-8726. Check the Tramway homepage for operating notices before heading up.

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

Bringing your own food also means taking care of your own mess.

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

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?
No. The Tramway’s current prohibited-items list bans outside alcohol. Bring nonalcoholic drinks instead.
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.

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!