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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Gondola
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Description
Leave the heat of the desert behind and travel 2.5 miles up the side of Mount San Jacinto aboard Palm Spring's legendary tram. The ride alone is an adventure -- the slowly revolving floor gives riders a 360-degree view of the expansive desert below and the changing vegetation of the mountainside during the 10-minute trip. Allow time to explore the pristine forest up top -- families could spend an entire day (or several, for those interested in camping) hiking, cross-country skiing, or snow-shoeing along the forest's 54 miles of trails.
Kid Tips
Babies: Infants 2 and under ride for free but require a boarding pass. Children may remain seated in strollers during the ride.
Toddlers & Pre-K: The change in altitude causes ears to pressurize. Teach kids how to relieve the pressure in advance to avoid discomfort.
Planning Notes
- Afternoon discount. Save $3 per ticket by riding up after 4 p.m.
- Not for those with a fear of heights. The tram climbs 5,873 feet during the trip.
- Much colder at the top. Bring along a light jacket even during the summer months, as it's typically 30 to 40 degrees cooler at the top than it is at the foot of the tram.
- Permit required. All hikers and backpackers must stop at the ranger station just behind the mountain station to obtain a permit.
- Dinner with a view. Families can choose from two restaurants at the top: Pines Cafe offers casual, cafeteria-style food; Peaks offers more formal fare. Ask about combination dinner and tram fare packages at the base.
Just the Facts
Hours: Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday - Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Fees: $20-$30
Recommended Time: 1 - 2 hours
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