Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (nearby) Guide
Ascend to Alpine Heights: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Guide
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, located a short drive from Idyllwild, offers a breathtaking journey from the desert floor to the alpine heights of Mount San Jacinto State Park. This engineering marvel transports visitors over 6,000 feet in just a few minutes, providing stunning panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and surrounding mountains. At the top, you'll find a completely different world, with cool mountain air, hiking trails, and a restaurant with incredible views. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway was conceived in the 1930s by electrical engineer Francis Crocker, who envisioned a way to access the cool mountain air of Mount San Jacinto from the scorching desert floor. Construction began in 1961 and was completed in 1963. The tramway has since become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its unique journey and stunning views. At the top of the tramway, you can enjoy a variety of activities. Hike along the numerous trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging climbs. Visit the observation decks for panoramic views of the Coachella Valley. Have a meal at the Peaks Restaurant or the Pines Cafe. Explore the Natural History Museum. In the winter, you can even enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The temperature at the top is typically 30-40 degrees cooler than on the desert floor, so be sure to dress warmly.
Transportation
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is located a short drive from Idyllwild. From Idyllwild, take Highway 243 west to Highway 74. Turn left onto Highway 74 and continue to Highway 111. Turn left onto Highway 111 and follow the signs to the tramway. Parking is available at the tramway base station.