Tram to Cool Treks

Ready for the coolest summer escape? Elevate your fun, getting whisked from palm trees to alpine wilderness on the world’s largest rotating tramcar. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway transports you up and away on a 2.5-mile scenic route from the desert floor to the refreshing wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park.

Board the tram at the Valley Station (elevation 2,643 feet) and within 12 minutes you’ll pass through five climate zones among the dramatic cliffs of Chino Canyon to arrive at Mountain Station (8,516 feet). Tip: At the station you can find grab-and-go dining, including pre-packaged salads and sandwiches, as well as cocktails.

With the desert heat left in the dust (temps are 30 to 40 degrees cooler at the top), it’s time to explore. Welcome to a hiker’s high of Jeffrey pines, surrounding peaks, and 50+ miles of hiking trails.

Day hikers can opt for something short and sweet, like the 1.5-mile Desert View Trail, a loop featuring five dazzling panoramic points. Or head for the second-highest point in SoCal on an 11-mile (round-trip) adventure to San Jacinto Peak. There are also several secluded backcountry camps.

Stay for sunset. Hulking boulders are the perfect spots for scrambling up to watch as the golden hour casts its magical light across the mountain ranges and over the Coachella Valley. Speaking of the boulders, Mount San Jacinto State Park is a popular spot for bouldering.

Afterwards you’ll still have time to dine, with two top-of-the-tram options, Pines Café and Peaks Restaurant (recently named #8 in Architectural Digest for World’s Best Cliffside Dining).

BONUS: Get a Summer Pass ($85) and benefit from free parking, 10% discounts on food, and unlimited tram rides through August 31. Way to elevate your summer fun!