Palm Spring Tram Hiking Trail
Palm Springs Tram Hiking Trail
Best Palm Springs Hiking Trail: If you’re searching for family friendly hike and a way to cool down from the hot desert heat, The Palm Springs Aerial Tram is a fun adventure for hikers of all experience levels. Starting from base of Coachella Valley, The Palm Springs Aerial Tram takes hikers up almost 6,000 feet and over 5 different life cycles to Mountain Station, which stands at 8,516 feet above sea level. Depending on the time of year, the air can be almost 40 degrees cooler in the wilderness area surrounding the station.
Once you reach Mountain Station, there are several hiking trails for all experience levels. For families, the recommended trail is a short 1-1.5 mile loop that takes explorers to an epic overlook that provides panoramic views of the desert floor. On clear days, hikers can see almost 200 miles across the landscape. For more adventurous hikers, individuals can choose to hike to the peak of Mount San Jancito. This hike is very challenging can over 10 miles round-trip.
Overall, the thrill of taking the tram up to Mountain Station and exploring some trails while enjoying refreshing mountain air is a delight for all experience levels. If you plan on making this journey, it’s recommended to arrive early at the tram station as it’s a very popular activity, especially during the holiday season.
Estimated Time: 1-2 miles (short scenic loop)
Total Distance: 1-2 hours
Map & Directions
Trail Pictures
Total Distance (miles)
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway open in 1963 and was coined the eighth wonder of the world.
Total Estimated Time (hour)
The 12 minute tram ride takes explorers through 5 different life zones.
When to Go
Spring/Summer/Fall: If you’re searching for a thrilling way to cool down from the desert heat, the Palm Springs Tram can whisk you away to a cooler environment. In fact, sometimes the Mountain Station is up to 40 degrees cooler than the desert floor. Due to ice conditions and cool fridge winter conditions, it’s recommended to enjoy this hike during the spring, summer or fall.
Dog Friendly
No, dogs are not permitted on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Only service dogs.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Trail Map
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Directions
Address for GPS:1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Why We Liked It
Palm Springs offers several diverse hiking trails, including the Palm Tree Oasis and Ladder Canyon Hike. As each hike is unique, hikers can enjoy a diverse atmosphere when exploring the desert valley. When hikers want to take in the sights and enjoy an epic view, The Aerial Tram is the perfect way to explore, cool off and take in all the sites of the valley.
Although it feels a little touristy taking the tram to the top, the tram provides an entertaining and safe option to reach the mountain area, especially for families.
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