Helicopters Dangled Workers Above 400-Foot Cliffs to Build This Daring California Mountain Tramway

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, California

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which opened in 1963, was the world’s first rotating tram, as it ascends 2.5 miles from the Sonoran Desert.

Inspired by engineer Francis Crocker, after nearly 30 years of challenges (and sourcing equipment from Germany), the tram became a reality.

Today, modern rotating cars transport passengers to scenic viewpoints, restaurants, and hiking trails, with winter skiing available just miles from Palm Springs.

Took 23,000 Helicopter Trips

During the construction period, they needed helicopters to make over 23,000 trips to carry materials and workers up the steep canyon walls.

This earned it the nickname ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’ when it opened in 1963. They used 8,200 tons of concrete and 30 miles of steel cable to build it.

Biggest Rotating Tram Car in the World

Ride in the world’s largest rotating tram cars, upgraded in 2000.

During the 10-minute trip, the car rotates 360 degrees, offering stunning views from every angle. Each tram car holds 80 people and moves at 26 feet per second.

While there are no seats, there’s ample space for wheelchairs or strollers.

Designed to Sway Safely in the Wind

In windy conditions, the tram cars may sway gently, swinging up to 30 feet. In 2003, stabilizers were added to reduce most of the swaying. The tram operates safely in winds up to 55 mph, after which it shuts down for safety.

Five Different Zones in 10 Mins

In 10 minutes, you’ll travel from the hot Sonoran Desert at 2,643 feet to a cool pine forest experiencing a 30-40 degree temperature drop. The tram climbs about 6,000 feet over 2.5 miles of cable, like driving from Mexico to Canada.

Sunset Rides & Valley Lights

For the best view, head to the western-facing deck to see up to 200 miles.

From the Mountain Station decks, watch as daylight fades and the Coachella Valley below turns into a sea of twinkling lights.

In the summer months, the most beautiful sunset rides are around 7:15-7:30 pm, while in winter they’re best around 4:30-5:00 pm.

From Desert Heat to Snow in a Day

Enjoy both desert sunshine and mountain snow on the same day. Snow can pile up to 8 feet deep during big storms.

The Mountain Station area usually has snow from December through April, so you can go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

The park features separate areas for sledding and hiking across 5 acres. Equipment rentals are available if you don’t have snow gear.

Pine Cones Bigger Than Softballs

As you walk around the Mountain Station, you’ll spot large pine cones from Jeffrey and Ponderosa pines, some even bigger than softballs. Each cone (over 200 years old) holds up to 150 seeds and can weigh over 2 pounds.

Gorge on Food at 8,516 Feet

At the top, choose between Peaks Restaurant for fine dining with floor-to-ceiling windows or Pines Café for a casual, cafeteria-style experience.

In 2025, get a special Ride ‘n’ Dine package for $41 for adults and $27.50 for kids, which includes your tram ticket and dinner at Pines Café after 4:30 pm.

Historic Landmark Title in 1986

When the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway opened in 1963, it used technology that had never been seen before in the United States. The American Society of Civil Engineers believes it’s a pioneer in engineering.

The tramway’s towers range from 50 to 227 feet tall and hold up the 1.5-inch steel cable system. It also uses a clever counterweight system that keeps the cars level no matter how many people are inside.

Spot Wildlife Through the Seasons

There’s a good chance you’ll see mule deer, gray foxes, bobcats, and more than 50 types of birds, including 28 different kinds of butterflies and the rare bighorn sheep.

This protected sanctuary is also home to the San Jacinto flying squirrels in its pine forests. Visit on Saturday mornings from April to October for ranger-led wildlife tours.

See From the Ocean to Las Vegas

Hiking to San Jacinto Peak? Scientists have confirmed this as one of the longest unblocked views in North America.

At 10,834 feet, you can see about 100 miles in each direction, all the way to Catalina Island and to Mount Charleston near Las Vegas. It’s an 11-mile round trip hike from the Mountain Station, climbing another 2,318 feet.

After winter storms usually give the clearest views, when you can see six different counties and identify more than 70 landmarks.

Free App Helps You Along The Way

Download the official Palm Springs Aerial Tramway app. Since its release in 2022, more than 100,000 people have downloaded it.

The tram offers audio tours that explain the sights, augmented reality to identify mountain peaks, special photo filters, and a live camera feed.

It ncludes a guided nature walk with 15 interactive stops at the Mountain Station.

Visiting the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Address: 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Admission:

• Monday-Friday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Weekends/Holidays: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Last Tram Down: 9:30 pm

Read More From This Brand:

• The Sandia Peak Tramway, New Mexico
• The Portland Aerial Tram, Oregon
• Historic Grand Canyon Railway