Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Coachella Valley, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers an unforgettable journey through the rugged landscapes of Southern California. This iconic attraction is not only a marvel of engineering but also a gateway to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the region. If you're seeking an adventure that combines panoramic vistas and outdoor exploration, look no further. In this blog post, we'll delve into the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and the top hikes you can embark on at the summit. This area provides adventure for the entire family and is great for families with kids or for those rugged adventures that seek a long-distance wilderness experience.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway:
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is located only a short drive from downtown Palm Springs, it is located at One Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA. 92262. There is ample parking located there and on busy days they will have a shuttle transporting people from the lower parking lots. When we went prices were approximately $30.95 dollars per adult, but they did have an AAA discount. For current pricing on the cost of tickets to use the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to get to the top click Here.
A Scenic Ascent From The Valley Station: The adventure begins at the Valley Station, where you board the world's largest rotating tramcar. The 10-minute ascent takes you from the desert floor to the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Along the way, you'll witness a dramatic shift in landscape, from the arid desert to the lush alpine environment, and the temperature drop is often a welcome respite from the desert heat. The views only continue to get progressively more spectacular the farther on your journey you go.
A Marvel of Engineering: The tramway is not just a mode of transportation; it's an engineering marvel. Constructed in the 1960s, it boasts a rotating cabin that allows passengers to enjoy 360-degree views, including the vast Coachella Valley and the San Andreas Fault. It's an exhilarating experience that makes the tram ride itself a must-do attraction in Palm Springs. Our 3 and 5-year-olds really loved the tram ride. Also, don't worry about which side of the tram you start on, because you will be slowly rotating the whole way up the mountain.
Hiking Adventures By The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Upon reaching the Mountain Station, located at an elevation of 8,516 feet, you'll be met with a wonderland of hiking opportunities to explore the wilderness. When we were there we did the two small loops, the Discovery Trail (.6 miles roundtrip) and the Desert View Trail (1.5 miles roundtrip) Both of these hikes do not require any type of wilderness permit. The ones that go deeper into the wilderness require a free wilderness permit that you can get near the Long Valley Ranger Station.
For a map of the hiking trails in the Mt. San Jacinto State Park click Here. Below are some of the top hikes to explore near the Mountain Station of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway:
A. Desert View Trail: For those seeking an easy and scenic stroll, the Desert View Trail is a perfect choice. This 1.5-mile loop, with approximately 50 feet of elevation gain, offers stunning vistas of the Coachella Valley as you visit different valley vistas. There are interpretive signs explaining the desert ecosystem and its interface with the mountain ecosystem. It's a great option for families with kids or anyone looking for a leisurely hike that is longer than the shorter discovery trail. No wilderness permit is required.
B. Discovery Trail: For those seeking a very easy and mostly flat hike/walk, the Discovery Trail is a perfect choice. This is a short .6-mile loop trail that has minimal elevation gain. This is a perfect hike for those families with kids and you get to take in the mountain scenery and the stream by the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway mountain station. No wilderness permit is required.
C. Round Valley Meadow: The Round Valley Meadow is a slightly more challenging option at just over 4 miles roundtrip with 600 feet of elevation gain, but it's still relatively manageable for most hikers. You'll meander through a pine forest and enjoy various vantage points offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Round Valley Campground is at this location. It is open year-round and has 19 primitive campsites in total. There is a water spigot and the water must be filtered/purified and it may run dry in drought years. A wilderness permit is required.
D. San Jacinto Peak Trail: For the more ambitious hikers, the San Jacinto Peak Trail is a rewarding trek. This 11-mile round trip leads to the summit of San Jacinto Peak, which stands at 10,834 feet above sea level. The hike offers unparalleled views, but it's essential to be well-prepared and have appropriate gear as the weather can change quickly at higher elevations. This a strenuous hike, which if you accomplish will give you bragging rights. A wilderness permit is required.
Final Thoughts: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and the incredible hikes at the summit offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience the diverse beauty of Southern California's landscapes. From the desert floor to alpine forests and mountain peaks, this adventure has it all. Whether you're a casual hiker or a seasoned trailblazer, there's a path waiting for you. The next time you find yourself in Palm Springs, don't miss the chance to explore this remarkable natural wonder and remember to bring your camera because the views are nothing short of extraordinary.
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