Activities

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a remarkable feat of engineering that offers visitors a breathtaking journey from the desert floor of Palm Springs to the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. It is the world's largest rotating tramcar and provides unparalleled views as it ascends over 8,500 feet through rugged Chino Canyon.

At the mountain station, there is a range of amenities such as a giftshop, quick service resturant, bar, dine-in resturant, and the Mount San Jacinto Visitor Center. To find out more information about the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, including operating hours, ticket prices, and special events, you can visit their official website at www.pstramway.com.

 

Whether you're planning a day trip with family and friends or seeking a unique adventure in the San Jacinto State Wilderness, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers an unforgettable experience for all who embark on its journey.

Note: The only entrance into Mount San Jacinto State Park from the Mountain Tram Station is down a steep, paved walkway that descends 100 feet in 1/8th of a mile. The steepness of this walkway is difficult for some and the handrails do not run its full length.

Mount San Jacinto State Park is an exceptional outdoor classroom for your students to learn in. Located at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the park is a perfect example of a sub-alpine environment filled with towering pines, craggy peaks, and woodland animals. Park staff and volunteers conduct outdoor, guided programs to schools and youth groups (weather permitting) with a focus on the life and physical sciences. 

 

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. For reservations please visit Ports.parks.ca.gov  For questions please contact Park Interpreter Nick Garduno (nicholas.garduno@parks.ca.gov).

 

Note that programs:

• Must be reserved with park staff at least 4 weeks in advance
• Are conducted at a high elevation of 8,500 feet on the eastern side of the park, and thus, requires participants to ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway which may not be suitable for all children
• Are only available to Grades 2 and older
• Can only accommodate 60 students per day
• Can only be conducted on Fridays; however, to accommodate large classes, a school may split their classes over an adjoining Thursday/Friday
• Will not be scheduled during the last week of school

Stay a little longer and join one of our Park Interpreters on a guided nature walk through Long Valley. Nature walks are offered every Saturday and Sunday from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.

 

Discovery Nature Trail

0.6 mile roundtrip, minimal elevation gain

45-60 minutes

 

Desert View Trail

1.5 miles roundtrip, 50 feet elevation gain

60-90 minutes

During the summer, the Mount San Jacinto Natural History Association hosts several half-day and full-day excursions into the park guided by local experts in flora, fauna, orienteering, and more. Limited spaces are available for each program. Sign up here: MSJNHA Events and Programs