Hiking at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Coachella Valley residence know the secret to keeping cool in the Hot Summer Months….HIKE at the Top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway!

Jjust a 10-minute tram ride away—to the alpine forest atop the majestic San Jacinto Mountains and Beginning May 1, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Summer Pass makes “beating the heat” easy—and affordable—for everyone when passes again go on sale. (Click here for the Beat the Heat Summer Pass)

If you are ready to experience some of the most beautiful hiking the Palm Springs area has to offer, grab your CamelBak, other Hydration Pack or Hydroflask and get out on the trail!

Hiking at the top of the tram by Julio Vazquez‎

Long Valley Discovery Trail
Follow the nature trail posts around a ¾ mile (1.2 km) loop. This easy level trail provides an excellent introduction to the Park’s plants and animals.

Desert View Trail
A 1.5 mile (2 km) loop trail leads to a number of scenic overlooks and forest views. Short climbs, moderately strenuous.

Round Valley
A 2.5 mile trail leads to picturesque Round Valley. Fairly level trails, short climbs, moderately strenuous. You can also hike the Round Valley loop which is a moderately strenuous hike of about 5 miles.

Wellmans Divide
From Round Valley to Wellmans Divide is a 1-mile hike with a 600 foot elevation gain. The view from here is truly spectacular. Looking west you can see the dome of the Palomar Observatory and to the southwest Tahquitz Peak Lookout. From this point you can continue down to Idyllwild or up to the Mt.

San Jacinto Peak –  Elevation gain, strenuous.
This is a 5.5 mile hike one way and will take you to the second highest point in southern California. On clear days it is reported that you can see Catalina Island or the glow from Las Vegas at night.

For your comfort, always wear sturdy closed toe shoes, layered comfortable clothing, hat and sunscreen. A light jacket in spring and early summer, and for fall and winter, a heavy jacket and gloves are a good idea, along with appropriate waterproof shoes. Water is only available at the Ranger Station. Bring your own water if you are traveling further. Stay on designated trails only.

The State Park will charge $5 per person for camping permits. There is no fee for day hiking permits at this time.

Cover photo – Windmills from the Top of the Tram by Joe’s Art and Photography

For more information please visit https://www.pstramway.com/hiking

View of the Coachella Valley from the top of the Tram by CoachellaValley.com