Karyn M.
Yelp
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is only about 13 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs but it is also worlds away. You board the world's largest rotating tramcar on a 10-minute ride to the top of Mount Jacinto, more than 8,500 feet. In early spring, the air was cool on the mountain, but even cooler were the pristine air and breathtaking views. There was snow blanketing the ground, and my light down jacket was appreciated. I saw a bunch of schoolchildren wearing snowpants, but also tourists in tank tops and open-toed sandals (go figure). It is about 30-40 degrees cooler than below.
There are hiking trails and and easy 1-mile path, the Long Valley Discovery Loop, but we just went up for the views and to eat in the restaurant, Peaks.
During the spring, it's probably best to purchase your tickets in advance. We didn't and we ended up having about a 1.5-hour wait to board. There is a snack shop and tables and chairs on the outdoor patio. It's a nice view, as long as you don't psych yourself out watching the car's ascension.
I don't think I've ever been on a rotating tramcar before, so it's a little disorienting at first. Of course, whenever the tramcar passes through the stations there's a little bumping, and inevitably, there are a few little screams. Just don't think about it. The descent was very pleasant and we had a little sing-a-long to "Sweet Caroline," and other songs.
We parked in lot A, and the incline up to the station is very challenging, deceptively so. We were quite out of breath. Save your breath for the amazing views!