Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket

Imagine gliding above the desert landscape, ascending into the cool mountain air on the world’s largest rotating cable car. That’s the experience awaiting visitors to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—a ride that promises spectacular views, fresh mountain air, and the chance to explore the rugged San Jacinto Mountains. If you’re planning a trip to Palm Springs and craving a mix of natural beauty and a touch of adventure, this tour is well worth considering.

What we love about this experience is the stunning panorama you’ll get during the ride, with the tram’s unique rotating feature making sure everyone gets a good look at the scenery. Plus, the mountain station offers cozy dining and observation options, turning a scenic ascent into a full outing. One potential drawback? During peak times and holidays, long lines and wait times can test your patience—so planning ahead or visiting on a weekday can make all the difference.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate breathtaking vistas, enjoy light outdoor activity, and want a memorable highlight that’s accessible for most. If you’re into panoramic views, mountain hikes, or just want a break from desert heat, this experience can deliver.

Key Points

• The ride is about 12,800 feet long with a vertical ascent of nearly 6,000 feet, offering sweeping views of Palm Springs and the San Jacinto Mountains.
• The rotating cable cars ensure everyone gets a panoramic view during the approximately 15-minute ascent.
• The top station, Mountain Station, features a restaurant, cocktail lounge, and observation deck, ideal for relaxing or taking photos.
• The experience is mostly family-friendly, with strollers permitted, and most travelers can participate.
• You’ll want to book tickets in advance—on average 14 days ahead—to avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
• The ticket price of around $33 offers good value considering the ride, views, and amenities at the top.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Ride Up: A Scenic Ascent

Starting at Valley Station, you’ll board one of the two cable cars, each capable of holding 80 people. These cars are a marvel of engineering—the double reversible type, which means they move on track cables and act as counterbalances for each other. As you ascend, the car slowly rotates, providing a 360-degree view that’s difficult to beat. Travelers consistently praise this feature, with one noting: “Loved the newer tram cars that rotate 360 degrees twice during ascent to mountain top!” (Warren_R). It’s a clever design, ensuring no one misses the sweeping vistas of the desert below and the surrounding mountains.

The journey takes about 15 minutes, covering roughly 12,800 feet from valley floor to mountain top. The climb’s elevation gain of nearly 6,000 feet makes it a significant change in scenery—from desert scrub to lush Ponderosa pines, mountain spires, and rocky outcroppings. This is not just transport; it’s a moving observation deck — a highlight in itself.

The Mountain Station: A Mountain Top Escape

Once you arrive at Mountain Station, the experience shifts from simply riding to exploring. The station features a restaurant and a cocktail lounge, perfect for relaxing after the ascent. The observation deck offers panoramic views from the mountainside, with several reviews highlighting how “the view is beyond amazing” (Thom_R) and “most people haven’t ‘done’ Palm Springs until they take the tram” (Joseph_F).

Many visitors appreciate the chance to photograph the landscape, which includes patches of snow in colder months and a mix of dense forest and rugged terrain. The station is also a gateway for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, making it a versatile spot for outdoor lovers.

Activities at the Top

Beyond the views, the top station serves as a jumping-off point for various outdoor activities. Trails wind through the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Some reviews mention the availability of hikes at different levels, with one noting, “There are some hikes available at the top ranging from very easy to advanced,” giving visitors options depending on their energy and experience.

Food and Amenities

At the top, the restaurant offers quality dining with killer views, making the meal part of the adventure. Reviewers have praised the food and service, calling it “great with killer views,” especially considering the mountain setting. The cocktail lounge provides a relaxing spot to unwind, sip a drink, and soak in the scenery.

Booking and Practical Considerations

Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, with current policies recommending booking in advance—on average, about two weeks prior—to secure a spot. The tour price of $32.95 per person is reasonable, especially when factoring in the ride and the amenities at the top.

A helpful detail is that the tickets are timed for the next available tram, which helps with managing wait times but can still lead to lines during peak times. Several reviewers have noted long waits, with one mentioning, “Saturday was busy, and we waited an hour to board the tram,” so planning your visit on a weekday or outside holiday periods can greatly enhance your experience.

Parking costs $15 per vehicle, but free shuttles are available from nearby lots during weekends and holidays, easing the logistical hassle. The tramway also allows service animals and strollers, making it accessible for most travelers.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews echo the general excitement of the ride and top experience, with many praising the breathtaking 360-degree views and the overall value. One reviewer states, “Breathtaking 360-degree views,” emphasizing the visual feast the tram offers. Others appreciate the quality of the restaurant and the friendly staff, with remarks like, “Service was excellent, and the views were worth every penny.”

However, some mention the challenge of waiting, especially during busy times. One reviewer shared, “We waited an hour to board the tram,” illustrating that patience can be needed. Another noted that their voucher was not the same as a ticket, which caused some confusion but was manageable with proper planning.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book tickets early—ideally 14 days in advance or more—to secure a spot, especially if visiting during holidays or weekends.
• Visit on a weekday if possible to avoid long lines and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
• Check the weather forecast: Mountain weather can change quickly, so bring layers—jackets or sweaters are recommended.
• Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and have ample time at the top.
• Consider parking options: Paid parking is $15, but free shuttles are available on weekends and holidays.
• Plan for potential wait times: Especially during peak seasons, patience is part of the adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers a compelling blend of scenery, adventure, and comfort. It’s an experience that turns a standard sightseeing trip into a memorable highlight of a Palm Springs visit. The ride itself is smooth, safe, and offers exceptional views, all delivered via a sleek and innovative cable car. The amenities at the top—dining, observation deck, trails—add value, especially if you want to spend a little extra time enjoying the mountain environment.

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who value panoramic vistas, outdoor activities, and a taste of mountain serenity. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the tram provides a spectacular perspective on Southern California’s natural beauty.

While the ticket price isn’t the lowest—at around $33—it covers the entire ride, access at the top, and the convenience of a well-maintained facility. Just be prepared for possible waits during busy times, and plan your visit accordingly to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable trip.

All in all, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a worthwhile splurge for anyone wanting to see the desert from above and step into the mountains for a while. It’s a scenic, accessible adventure that offers a fresh perspective on the landscape—and a great story to tell afterward.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and strollers are permitted. It’s a family-friendly activity that offers stunning views everyone can enjoy.

How long does the whole experience take?
Expect about 1 to 2 hours, including the ride up and some time at the top exploring or dining.

Can I book tickets on the day of my visit?
It’s best to book in advance—about two weeks ahead—especially during holidays—since tickets are timed and in high demand.

What if the weather is bad?
The tramway is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
Parking costs $15 per vehicle. Food, drinks, and gratuities are extra and not included.

What are the peak times?
Weekends and holiday periods can be busy, leading to longer wait times. Visiting early or during weekdays can improve your experience.

Is there any extra fee for activities at the top?
Hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are available in the surrounding areas, but they are not included in the ticket price.

How do I get to the tramway station?
Most visitors drive and park at the 13 paved lots near Valley Station; free shuttles operate on weekends and holidays.

To sum it up, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers an affordable way to enjoy some of California’s most impressive mountain scenery. For those who don’t mind the possibility of lines and enjoy outdoor exploration, it’s a memorable highlight worth making time for. Whether you’re looking for a scenic escape, a family outing, or simply a photo opportunity, this tram delivers on all counts, with views that will stay with you long after you leave the mountains behind.