Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

 
The stunning views from the Palm Spings Aerial Tramway window.

My kids and I recently traveled to Palm Springs for adventure, specifically to ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the largest rotating tramway in the world.

The view aboard the gondola was mesmerizing as we ascended two and a half miles to a forest at the top of Mount San Jacinto State Park. The ride itself gave us that 'butterflies-in-the-stomach' sensation usually felt on roller coasters. But that's just the journey. 

Once at the summit, there's plenty to do in the rugged wilderness, including winter activities that are hard to come by in Southern California. 

Getting To the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

There is plenty of paid parking for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, and the lots open at 7am. The cost is $15 per vehicle. We went early and got a spot close to the embarkation station. However, there is a shuttle if you have to park far away.

Tickets for the round-trip tram ride are $30.95 for adults, $18.95 for kids three to ten, and free for those two and under. You can buy tickets in advance online or at the admission booth (it opens 30 minutes before the first ride of the day). There is a discount for tickets purchased after 4pm.

There's also a Ride 'n' Dine package, which includes tram fare and dinner at the Pines Cafe. During the week, trams leave starting at 10am. On the weekends, the first car leaves at 8am. 

Making the Ascent

The trek to the top of the mountain aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway lasts about ten dramatic minutes. The cable car, which fits 80 standing passengers, travels straight up a rocky cliff through five different ecosystems, sometimes wildly swinging as it passes the towers rooting it in place (hence that roller coaster sensation). 

A recorded message provides interesting facts about the 1960s construction and the many TV shows and movies filmed at the site. Try to get a spot at the window to spot wildlife, like birds of prey. The gondola makes two full revolutions during the trip so passengers can see in all directions before disembarking at the top of Mount San Jacinto State Park.

RELATED: Palm Springs with Kids: Best Things To Do in Palm Springs, California

 
Explore hiking trails like the Valley Discovery Loop at San Jacinto State Park. 

Outdoor Activities at the Top

My advice for riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is to dress for cooler weather, even in the summer months. The temperature difference between the floor of the Coachella Valley and the alpine forest can be up to 40 degrees. 

In the winter, expect highs in the 30's and plenty of snow. This means seasonal activities that you won't find anywhere else nearby. The Adventure Center offers winter gear rental on the weekends for families who want to try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. 

In the warmer months, hiking reigns supreme. There are more than 50 miles of trails spanning 14,000 acres of immaculate wilderness. My daughters and I loved viewing the majestic pine trees and woodpeckers on the .75-mile Long Valley Discovery Loop, a great trail for kids and beginning hikers.     

Indoor Activities at the Top

There are two movie theaters at the summit with more information on the tram's construction and the Mount San Jacinto State Park. There's also a small natural history museum with taxidermy animals native to the area. 

If you're looking for a souvenir, there are two gift shops—one at the tram's valley station and one at the mountain station. They sell things like t-shirts, hats, and a handful of toys. Also, before getting on the tram, a photographer takes your pic with a green screen image of the gondola, which you have the option to purchase. 

Dining at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

There are two restaurants at the summit of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, and a cocktail lounge inside the mountain station. 

The Pines Cafe

A casual cafeteria that's open all day. It mostly has grab-and-go items like prepackaged sandwiches, salads, and chips (though their menu gets more elaborate at night).   

The Peaks Restaurant

A fancier restaurant with sit-down service and menu options ranging from steak, seafood, and dessert. There's also a kids' menu with items like pasta and burgers. It's only open for lunch and dinner. 

Bring Your Own Food

You can also pack a picnic and bring your own food with you on the tram. Just make sure it's in a closed container. There are some picnic tables located within the state park.       

Visiting with Babies and Toddlers

If you're taking the tram with a little one, note that they will need a boarding pass even though they are free if they are under two. You can get one at the ticket booth on the day of your visit. 

Strollers are allowed on the gondola. If it gets crowded, you might be asked to fold it up for the journey. Some babies' ears are bothered by the altitude change, which is something to be aware of. The restrooms at both the valley and mountain stations have changing tables.   

Where To Stay in Palm Springs

If you plan on staying overnight in Palm Springs, there are several hotels and resorts to choose from. 

Omni Rancho Las Palmas

This hotel has its own on-site water park called Splashtopia, with a 450-foot lazy river, splash pads, a cliffside hot tub, and two giant water slides. 

Westin Desert Willow Villas 

You'll find a large water slide, mini-golf course, and spacious guest rooms with kitchens at this hotel. 

Marriott Shadow Ridge Villas

My kids really enjoy the Marriott Shadow Ridge Villas in Palm Desert. They have a few pools to choose from, as well as a kids club with daily activities. 

Mount San Jacinto State Park Camping

If you are feeling ambitious, there are six primitive campgrounds at the top of the tram within the Mount San Jacinto State Park. Camping permits cost $5 per person, and a Wilderness Camping Permit is required.    

All photos by author Jackie Jones for Mommy Poppins.