The World's Largest Rotating Tram Car Is Here In Southern California And It’s An Unforgettable Adventure
By Natasha Kayes|Published November 03, 2022
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
The idea for a tram that would transport people from the heat of the desert up to the cool air of the snow-covered San Jacinto peak was conceived in 1935, but it took many years for the project to finally take shape and become a reality. The first ride up the canyon was taken on September 12, 1963. Now, this unique attraction has become a truly unforgettable adventure in Southern California.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is unlike any tram, lift, or sky ride you will experience elsewhere, and it begins as you step aboard the world's largest rotating tram cars.
Your adventure begins at the Valley Station in Palm Springs. Parking is available at the station, including overnight parking if you are planning to camp at the peak.
These modern tram cars give riders 360-degree views of the desert floor, the oasis-like town of Palm Springs, and the giant granite rocks on the mountain. You can just imagine the sunset views from this unique vantage point as the tram makes its way up or down the canyon.
In just about 10 minutes, the tramway travels over two and a half miles and rises almost 6,000 feet up the steep cliffs of Chino Canyon. As you approach the summit, you get a full view of the beautiful Mountain Station.
The station also has multiple observation decks, telescopes, a natural history museum, a gift shop, the Adventure Center, and theaters showing videos from the tram’s construction.
During winter, you can rent snow shoes or cross-country skis from the Adventure Shop or buy a sled at the gift shop. You can also bring your own plastic sleds to play on the mountain.
As you explore the peak, you will enjoy views of the valley below which is shaped by a network of earthquake faults, as well as the Salton Sea which was formed by flooding of the Colorado River.
Have you ever ridden the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway? Tell us all about your unforgettable Southern California adventure! Learn more and plan your adventure by visiting the official Palm Springs Aerial Tramway website and Facebook page. Craving more? Check out several more adventures you can have in SoCal.
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