Wow, did this bring back memories. As newlyweds we went to Palm Springs and on a lark decided to take the tram. This was in the mid sixties. The interesting thing was that it was hot in town but when we got to the top, it had snowed and cold! This was a sweet memory and going back in time since my husband of 56 passed away four years ago. Thank you!!
I went there in the early 80’s during summer. It was hot at the bottom but really nice once we got up to the top. It wasn’t as crowded as this though. I’ve always wanted to go in winter but haven’t been able to. My condolences on the loss of your husband 💐
Lived in CA all my 51 years and have yet to visit Palm Springs. The gondola has been on my bucket list forever. Thanks for taking us along for the mayhem.
I rode on the train in 2018 while attending a conference in Palm Springs and the Baripas tennis tournament in Indian Wells. There is a nice restaurant called "Peaks Restaurant" at the top of tram with good food and a great view of the valley. Another good episode.
My wife and I rode the tram in March of 2024. This was the first time for her, was #2 for me. We both had a great and exciting time both on the tram and on the Mt'n. We got to the lower station about 1/2 hour before they opened, took us roughly around 45min. from parking to getting on the tram.
I used to go on my birthday in early February in the late '80's but was shocked to see the lines & price now!! I was in Boy Scouts in the early '70's when our troop went up the tram and hiked down with packs, tents etc. My dad came & we were up way earlier than everyone else, so the hike was just us two. He was a school teacher but had majored in Botany and knew ALL the trees and plants. I really miss my dad and will never forget our epic tram experience! Thanks Jeff!!! 😊😊
I wondered if you could hike up there! When I visited Alberta last I took the Banff Gondola ride. I was surprised to see a hiking trail with a fair amount of people on it! It’s an over 2000 feet elevation gain. In my younger days I would have been able to do that. Sigh. These are the types of adventures you will remember best! It’ll keep your Dad’s precious memory close to you. It’s something you can do with your own children, or tell them about it.
Back in the 70s I was working at a rigging company and met an old ironworker who worked on the construction of the towers for the tram. He said it was quite an experience and thought it was actually a great time. I asked him what happened if you dropped something and he said whatever it was, consider it gone. They accidentally dropped some of the steel beams and he said once they stopped bouncing down the canyon off the rocks they were useless and since the beams were fabbed to exact measurements it really put a damper in productivity. Supposedly the steel was not retrieved and he said if you look down you might actually see old rusty parts on the bottom of the canyon. I've been up there a few times and have never spotted anything, but then again it's a pretty far drop in some of the areas below the tram gondola. Now I'm inspired to head out there one more time.
We went Dec 26 2017, there was no snow at all! Waited about an hour and a half for our turn. Once at the top looked around, got some food up there. Stayed at an airbnb in plam springs. Then Universal studios the next day. Fun trip!
As a Minnesota transplant I greatly appreciate having to go out of the way and make your ears pop to see snow. I thought Mannix was the guy that parked in his living room but it was Dan Tana.
That tram is really cool and relatively unknown. I rode it once in late March. It was ~95 degrees in Palm Springs, and after a five minute tram ride the temperature at the top was in the 40s. How many places in the world can you see such a rapid transition?
I've ridden the tram several times. First time 1977, last time 2004. Great view at the top and beautiful forest scenery. The tram was once featured in an episode of Mission Impossible.
Spent some time in Palm Springs for a for a Military Appreciation Day by Bob Hope. He was and will always be the biggest fan of all military. Thank you professor (😊) AND HAPPY ST PATTY DAY!!
Remenber when it was only 2.00 to ride the tram ! Its been yrs on .my last trip ! Preety niceup there ! Done my share of hiking on top ! Great memories
Thanks for the PS Tram tour Jeff & Sarah, I've never heard of this so I've never ridden it, nor will I ride on it as heights scare the bejebers outta me! Have a blessed St. Paddy's Day! ☘️
I never knew about the trams of Palm Springs pretty cool! Great views at 4,000 ft! This would be cool to have something like this in the foot hills of Clovis at the base of the 4 lane going up to Shaver Lake! Thanks Jeff and Sarah!
Thanks for the nice tour! I moved to Palm Springs in May of 1987, from San Diego. Now THAT is a climate change! After my girl friend and I rode the aerial tramway, we decided to purchase a seasonal pass, and many times that first summer we would grab our backpacks and sleeping rolls, head up the tramway. Get a wilderness permit and hike about 1/2 mile NW of the upper tram station and camp out for the night. Clear crisp nights, the starlight, the wildlife, it was awesome!
What a great video! I rode a tram at Niagara Falls years ago. I think the views here are much better! My hubby and I went to Dallas years ago. We went up to the top of a tower that had a revolving restaurant at the top. We were in the restaurant and it stopped. We were stopped for about a half hour. I have a fear of heights so I was had a death grip on my hubby and a railing. 😊Thank you for the wonderful video and awesome views!
Just went today. No lines, good flow of people. Parked in the main lot at 10:30, was riding up by 11:05. Beautiful day hiking. Go midweek of a very regular day and enjoy the visit with little waiting.
Good morning Sarah and jeff! What an incredible video. I was able to visit a place I could actually never physically go and with no wait times, beautiful pictures and great narrative.
My girlfriend, later wife, and I took the tram in 1967. At the time it was advertised as the Palms to Pines Tramway. There was no waiting to board the tramway, the major concern was not missing the last tram from the mountain top back to Palm Springs.
Rode the tram about 10 years ago. It was in the summer and there were no crowds. It is truly a great ride from the valley floor. Even at that time of year it was very cool at the top. The tram's rotating floor was quite an experience and gave a very nice 360º view. Crossing each tower gave the tram quite a shake and caused some excitement for the passengers. The Palm Springs Tram is comparable to the tram at Whistler Mountain in British Columbia, also a fantastic experience. Fabulous restaurant at the top of Whistler and numerous activities. Highly recommend both.
@@californiahiker9616We ate at the Roundhouse Restaurant at the top. Our table was at the very peak of the restaurant floor overlooking Vancouver. Incredible view! My wife and I still talk about it. Watched a bear climbing down the side of the mountain. We managed to do Whistler twice.....
@@curtgomes I’ll have to go there again, then! My husband hasn’t been to Whistler yet, so good reason for me to visit again! We now live in Northern WA, easier to reach! I went with my niece some years ago after an Alaska cruise. It was an organized trip, so not much time. And it was in August, 90 degrees in Whistler! Thanks for the tip!
@@californiahiker9616Clue: If you make reservations at the restaurant ahead of time, the ride on the tram is thrown in! At least that's the way it was when we were there before Covid. Lot's of fun stuff and activities going on at the top. I'd go back tomorrow.....
I've never ridden the Tram but i have seen it numerous times as I'm a huge fan of "Mannix", "Columbo", "Mission Impossible", and all the others shows you mentioned. I Love the classics. The new, not so much. Jeff, you never disappoint. I Love your take on History and always look forward to your next post. Hope you and Sarah are doing well, and are having a great St. Patrick's Day. And I gotta mention this (with respect): Every time my wife sees you she says "Look, it's Patrick Duffy". 😊 See you next Sunday. May the Peace of the Lord be with you all. God Bless
Loved watching this ! Thanks for the episode ! Brought back memories of our California vacation about 15 years ago, while traveling from Europe. I remember it being a super hot day in August, over 100F. I guess due to the heat we were nearly alone, only three or four other people. We stayed as long as possible on the mountain to enjoy the cooler air and went for a long hike. One of the few times we rode an aerial cablecar outside Switzerland.
I just went on the tramway 🚡 today and it was so amazing. I also hiked up in the San Jacinto mountains and had lunch at the peak. It was hailing up there at 2 pm. Once I got back down to Palm 🌴 Springs, it was 104 degrees 😰 I really enjoyed my trip up to the mountains for the day hike. I would love to be back in the spring when the wild flowers will be blooming. Thanks for sharing your video 😁
I went up with two daughters and my wife. There were no or issues and we also had amazing snow at the top. I was stunned by the visionary genius behind the entire tram. Amazing!
Got to ride this tram with a girlfriend back in 1973 when ticket prices were only $10. After seeing this video, makes me want to go back for old time's sake and enjoy the cool at the top. I live in Arizona.
I rode the tram for the first time only 10 years ago when I was 52 years old. It was an awesome experience for me. But then again, the Tram Gods were with us - because I don't recall having to wait any 3 hours to get on. We found parking right away, got to the boarding station right away, and was on board fairly quickly. It was worth the money - and back then I think it was something like $25.00 for a ticket. If you're not afraid of heights, I sure as heck recommend it. And yes, there was still snow on the mountain when I went.
This brought back fond memories in '64 or '65 of taking the tram with hubs, bro and sis-in- law. Very cold at the top. I don't remember the paved areas where you could go walking around. It was a wonderful experience. Thanks for bringing back those memorie, Jeff and Sarah.
My wife and I rode the Palm Springs Tramway the day after Christmas 2017. The crowds were not bad and we dined at the Peaks Restaurant. There were maybe only 15 or 20 people dining there, at the time, right around sunset. I had been wanting to ride this tramway for years and it was a very good experience. I am looking forward to riding again during summer, either spending a whole day hiking near the peak or perhaps camping overnight. The original Palm Springs tramway was built with equipment supplied by Von Roll, the same company that made the equipment for the San Diego Zoo Skyfari, the Seaworld SkyRide, and the now defunct Disneyland Skyway.
I lived just down the Mountain from here. I've passed it at least 50 times. Thank you Jeff that I No Longet have a Desire to Ride it. Seeing this was All I Needed to Quench that Desire. It Does have a Beautiful View.
I rode the tram in 1986. I had graduated from Highschool and my Mom took me on a weekend trip to Palm springs. We had lunch at the restaurant that is at the top. It was a wonderful trip. I loved the huge temperature change when you got to the top. Thank you Jeff and Sarah for sharing your trip and bringing back wonderful memories 😊
Driving my Semi across I-10 30 yrs ago I marveled at the snow at the top, then coming back out of the L.A. basin at night I would imagine where the lights went going up the side of the mountain. Now I know , and I thank you ❤️
This video showcasing the Palm Springs Aerial Tram ride and its history is absolutely captivating! The journey through the breathtaking scenery of Mount San Jacinto State Park is truly mesmerizing, and learning about the fascinating history behind the tram adds an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. It's incredible to see how this engineering marvel has provided visitors with access to the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of the region for decades. Thank you for sharing this informative and visually stunning exploration - it's definitely on my bucket list now! 🚠🏔 #PalmSpringsAerialTram #MountSanJacinto
Definitely something you should visit next time you are in Palm Springs! I enjoyed the experience, except for the wait times in the hot sun. We just picked a really busy Presidents’ Day weekend.
Hi sarah and jeff, oh my I have never heard of this tram before that is exciting to be able to go for that ride, but the elevation level might make me sick to go that high. did you and sarah enjoy the ride I hope so. looked packed. that part you talked about tv shows I saw the columbo one with roddy mcdowell. he went bonkers on the gondola LOL. very exciting info, and the before picture in B and w of what palm spring used to look like is breath taking. I hope you enjoyed the trip, I enjoyed watching this. Thankyou for taking me along.
6:23 I got dizzy watching Roddy McDowell squirm under Columbo’s line of questioning, intensified by my fear of heights, as the tram made its way to the top of the mountain. Columbo knew how to make suspects reach their breaking point. I don’t believe I could enjoy riding the tram although I applaud the vision and ingenuity it took to complete the project.
We are from Australia and went on the tram in 1990 when we were on holiday in America it was a great experience thanks for this video it brought back some great memories and we learnt some new information we were unaware of
I guess Jeff, Sarah, you would prefer direct comments about this Tram, but, my comment is SORTA related. Many's the time that I've been skiing and just when I thought that I'd have a quick easy float back up the mountain, for s fast schuss down, wouldn't you know it, but the lift would sometimes stop 5 minutes at a time, perhaps 12 different occasions for that single ride up the mountain, just so newbies could safely embark/disembark the lift? For what it's worth, I've ridden similar trams at Heavenly Valley, Palisades Megaplex Ski Area--since Alpine and Squaw have now been united, and the Mount Roberts Tram in Juneau, Alaska. From the top of the last mentioned, my cruise ships looked like bathtub toys, and there were PLENTY of Bald Eagles flitting through the trees, flanking the tram's daylighting. astonishing. I was just remembering the fight on the tram, from the movie, "Where Eagles Dare", with Richard Burton and Clint Eastwood, though it was not this tram. Also, NOT this tram, was the fight between Jaws and 007, from "Moonraker". Nancy Kwan, eh?? I go crazy over her, every time I rewatch "The World of Suzie Wong" with William Holden!
This video really brings back some memories for me, because it was completed the year after I was born, but at the time I didn't know that. In the mid '70s, I made a trip out there because on the way there was a place called the date farm, and they had outrageously good date shakes. Then I went ahead into Palm springs itself, because I had seen videos of how the tram was built. I decided to take a ride on it just for the heck of it because it was a great place to hike around at the top. At that time I believe I paid $2! Evidently, now it's $39.50! I haven't been back there for decades now, but at the top it was at least 30° cooler then the blistering heat on the valley floor. One of my favorite places in those days was Joshua Tree where we would go to do rock climbing and camping
The terrain was so rough that they could only build the first two towers from the bottom using conventional means, then the upper ones were built with the use of helicopters. Maybe this comment is premature because I just started watching the video, nevertheless that was my experience
Oh wow I didnt realize people have to wait this long to visit. My hudband and in 2022 after getting married in LV drove to Palm Springs for a few days. I bought the ticket we parked, hopped on checked out the top came back down...was a 2 hr visit in total. Never waited in line for anything it was the end of May. Guess we were just lucky. It was a really cool and educational experience.
Rode the tram in 75 and again after the new cars were installed. You go thru 4 climate zones and the hiking for the day is beautiful. Also in 75 my van only had drum brakes and on the way down they got hot and I just barely got it stopped at a turn out.😮
Also while my parents were visiting me, we took the fairy boat out to Catalina Island. That was a fun time. Watch as the dolphins follow along with the fairy boat. So cool.
My family took the ride back in the '70s when I was a teenager. I remember it was hot in the valley, but snowy on top! We have a cabin about 40 miles from Mt San Jacinto, and a beautiful view of the mountain through the front window! My wife and I were just there last week.
That was so awesome. Thanks for the thorough background info accompanying the video, Jeff. what gorgeous views🎊 I always love the videos, and audios you often incorporate. a great video 👏🏻👏🏻🚊 👏🏻👏🏻
I've been here a couple times as my Mom used to live in the area. It always killed my ears coming down, but was so much fun. I was always taken aback by the degree difference too. The last time we rode, we shared the tram with host Leesa Gibbons. Sadly she had the look of please don't approach me but she was also with her family which I can expect and respect now.
I now live in Washington state but my home is actually San Bernardino and El Centro. Palm Springs is between the two and I have ridden the tram several times. It certainly didn’t cost $30 when I was riding it. I always loved the experience and you brought back many fond memories. Thank you for sharing this video. I always enjoy my Sunday mornings with you. With you
Visited the tram last year. I remember someone with a stroller kept pushing into my heal and calf. A very tight space when the tram is crowded. Overall a great experience less all the crowds. Thank you for sharing!!
We were also surprised that there were so many people trying to get up there the same hour, but in the afternoon when we left there there was nobody waiting to go up. Wouldn’t you know it?
What a great ride, and informative video! The history of the tram, along with the celebs in the gondolas was very interesting. I stood at the tram entrance some years ago and just couldn’t get in! A year or two before that I had gone on the Squaw Valley tram. We were caught in a rainstorm midway through. The gondolas stopped and were swinging in the wind, back and forth. It was a short summer storm, and after a few minutes we were on our way. It took me 30 years to go on a tram ride again. In recent years I *uneasily* braved “peak to peak” in Whistler, and last year the Banff Gondola. If you want a similar view to the one from the mountain top in the 1960’s, go to Death Valley Dante’s View. It’s not nearly as high as Mt Jacinto, but the views are awesome! What a nice adventure, Sarah and Jeff. Sorry you had to wait in line so long, but thanks for doing so!
Wow! I hadn't thought about the 'Tram' in YEARS! Used to ride/enjoy it and all the wonderful Summer hikes in the forest, Winters with our 'Boogie Boards' to sled down the snow-covered hills! I can't believe those long wait times/lines though! Holy Moly! (My how times have changed)
My first trip on the tram was New Years Day, 2004, I believe. It was about 45 degrees in the parking lot and about 8 degrees at the top. My second trip was In August 2007, if memory serves, It was about 110 degrees in the parking lot and about 68 degrees at the top. A wonderful experience and nice restaurants at the top. They were a bit pricy then but still good food. Thanks for the memories, Jeff and Sarah!
I took a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway during the Spring of 1974 with my friend. It was a very hot day and I loved it when I got to the top where it was so much cooler. In fact there was still patches of snow on the ground. I also met Bob Hope during my visit to Palm Springs as he was playing in a charity 9 hole golf event.
I rode the Tram in the early 2000s sometime in March and it was not crowded, and we really had no waiting time. The top was much like you experienced and was 30 degrees cooler than the valley floor. Much like riding the old gondola cars at Disneyland that went through the Matterhorn.
great video.. the amount of wait time the 2 of you endured to ride the tram reminds me of why i avoid going anywhere on a Holiday weekend/3 day weekend . I prefer the minimal number of fellow humans when visiting such places......
I've been to Palm Springs, but never been on the tram. I used to live in Apple Valley, And Lucerne Valley areas. I have visited all of the desert towns and attractions. Calico ghost town, Lake Deloris when I was a kid. Frontier village and such.
I rode it up back in ‘85 and it was extremely hot in Palm Springs while I was there 120F+ At least going to the top of the mountain gave you some relief from the heat. The one at Heavenly is nice too and extremely scenic.
I had no idea about the renovation including rotating tram cars. That would be amazing for a lot of people including me. Fortunately I don't get motion sickness or seasickness, so I would enjoy it thoroughly, the way I enjoy roller coasters
I lived in Palm Springs from 1976 until 1993 and took the tram many times.. I only rode in the old tram Cars would love to take a ride in the new ones.
Late 70's, my parents took me. The only thing I really remember is the ascent and how close the cliffs came to the tram in some spots. I also remember that the view left an impression despite me being only 8 or 9 years of age.
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Wow, did this bring back memories. As newlyweds we went to Palm Springs and on a lark decided to take the tram. This was in the mid sixties. The interesting thing was that it was hot in town but when we got to the top, it had snowed and cold! This was a sweet memory and going back in time since my husband of 56 passed away four years ago. Thank you!!
Lived close enough, and am old enough, to take a short drive once a week to watch it being built. But I've never taken the trip up on it.
Sorry for your loss
Tilli, Hugs.
Pretty wild how different we see it
I went there in the early 80’s during summer. It was hot at the bottom but really nice once we got up to the top. It wasn’t as crowded as this though. I’ve always wanted to go in winter but haven’t been able to. My condolences on the loss of your husband 💐
As a kid in the 70's I rode on the Tram and thought it was the best thing ever. Thanks for the trip back in time.
ditto
double ditto
Triple ditto, me too back then.
LAST TIME MY WIFE AND I RODE ON THE TRAM WAS 1985. MY WIFE WAS EMPLOYED AT THE TOP OF THE TRAM IN THE EARLY 70'S AND RODE IT EVERYDAY!
So she’s had a lot of ups and downs in her career! 😂
dont YELL
This made me realize just how much I miss California and Palm Springs.
Is a beautiful place. That was it first time there!
Lived in CA all my 51 years and have yet to visit Palm Springs. The gondola has been on my bucket list forever. Thanks for taking us along for the mayhem.
I’ve visited Palm Springs for 20 years and lived here for two years. I have yet to go up the tram but will do so soon
Lived in ca all my 57 years and me too yet to visit. Bucket list to.
I rode on the train in 2018 while attending a conference in Palm Springs and the Baripas tennis tournament in Indian Wells. There is a nice restaurant called "Peaks Restaurant" at the top of tram with good food and a great view of the valley. Another good episode.
Thanks for sharing! The restaurant is still at the top but we had already eaten at the base!
What a BEAUTIFUL country. This land of ours!
I agree! California leads in beauty too!
@@jbenziggy land of the free never forget what that means law obeying citizen's
I rode it in 1967 on a school field trip, so glad I did it back then, it all seemed empty back then, no crowds.
I used to have a timeshare in Palm Springs. I frequented the lift many times and loved it!! Thx for the memories.
Very cool! Glad it brought back some good memories!
My wife and I rode the tram in March of 2024. This was the first time for her, was #2 for me. We both had a great and exciting time both on the tram and on the Mt'n.
We got to the lower station about 1/2 hour before they opened, took us roughly around 45min. from parking to getting on the tram.
I used to go on my birthday in early February in the late '80's but was shocked to see the lines & price now!! I was in Boy Scouts in the early '70's when our troop went up the tram and hiked down with packs, tents etc. My dad came & we were up way earlier than everyone else, so the hike was just us two. He was a school teacher but had majored in Botany and knew ALL the trees and plants. I really miss my dad and will never forget our epic tram experience! Thanks Jeff!!! 😊😊
Sorry about losing your dad. I know how much you must have loved and appreciated him! I did not have a clue there was a way to hike down!
I wondered if you could hike up there! When I visited Alberta last I took the Banff Gondola ride. I was surprised to see a hiking trail with a fair amount of people on it! It’s an over 2000 feet elevation gain. In my younger days I would have been able to do that. Sigh.
These are the types of adventures you will remember best! It’ll keep your Dad’s precious memory close to you. It’s something you can do with your own children, or tell them about it.
Yeah I never heard of anybody hiking down either but I would guess they're probably are trails😊
Back in the 70s I was working at a rigging company and met an old ironworker who worked on the construction of the towers for the tram. He said it was quite an experience and thought it was actually a great time. I asked him what happened if you dropped something and he said whatever it was, consider it gone. They accidentally dropped some of the steel beams and he said once they stopped bouncing down the canyon off the rocks they were useless and since the beams were fabbed to exact measurements it really put a damper in productivity. Supposedly the steel was not retrieved and he said if you look down you might actually see old rusty parts on the bottom of the canyon. I've been up there a few times and have never spotted anything, but then again it's a pretty far drop in some of the areas below the tram gondola. Now I'm inspired to head out there one more time.
We went Dec 26 2017, there was no snow at all! Waited about an hour and a half for our turn. Once at the top looked around, got some food up there. Stayed at an airbnb in plam springs. Then Universal studios the next day. Fun trip!
Too many people for me to go. Thanks for doing the waiting for us.
I wouldn't go if you don't like being enclosed with a lot of people.
As a Minnesota transplant I greatly appreciate having to go out of the way and make your ears pop to see snow. I thought Mannix was the guy that parked in his living room but it was Dan Tana.
That tram is really cool and relatively unknown. I rode it once in late March. It was ~95 degrees in Palm Springs, and after a five minute tram ride the temperature at the top was in the 40s. How many places in the world can you see such a rapid transition?
That’s quite the aerial view!
I've ridden the tram several times. First time 1977, last time 2004. Great view at the top and beautiful forest scenery.
The tram was once featured in an episode of Mission Impossible.
Nice video. I just retired from working there for 19 years. My dad worked there for 30 years too. My job had lots of ups and downs.:)
🤣🤣🤣
Spent some time in Palm Springs for a for a Military Appreciation Day by Bob Hope. He was and will always be the biggest fan of all military. Thank you professor (😊) AND HAPPY ST PATTY DAY!!
All the years I've lived in California I've never been to Palm Springs. I need to change that. This tram ride would be worth it.
Please come visit our amazing city
My lady likes thrills so now I have a great reason to go to Palm Springs. Thank you Jeff n Sarah.
She should enjoy this experience!
Hello Jeff, Thanks for sharing the beautiful scenery of Palm Springs and the great history. Have a wonderful Sunday.
Awesome views from up there! Cool!
It was! Thanks for coming along!
Remenber when it was only 2.00 to ride the tram ! Its been yrs on .my last trip ! Preety niceup there ! Done my share of hiking on top ! Great memories
Thanks for the PS Tram tour Jeff & Sarah, I've never heard of this so I've never ridden it, nor will I ride on it as heights scare the bejebers outta me! Have a blessed St. Paddy's Day! ☘️
I never knew about the trams of Palm Springs pretty cool! Great views at 4,000 ft! This would be cool to have something like this in the foot hills of Clovis at the base of the 4 lane going up to Shaver Lake!
Thanks Jeff and Sarah!
Thanks for the nice tour!
I moved to Palm Springs in May of 1987, from San Diego.
Now THAT is a climate change! After my girl friend and
I rode the aerial tramway, we decided to purchase a seasonal
pass, and many times that first summer we would grab our
backpacks and sleeping rolls, head up the tramway. Get a
wilderness permit and hike about 1/2 mile NW of the upper
tram station and camp out for the night.
Clear crisp nights, the starlight, the wildlife, it was awesome!
What a great video! I rode a tram at Niagara Falls years ago. I think the views here are much better! My hubby and I went to Dallas years ago. We went up to the top of a tower that had a revolving restaurant at the top. We were in the restaurant and it stopped. We were stopped for about a half hour. I have a fear of heights so I was had a death grip on my hubby and a railing. 😊Thank you for the wonderful video and awesome views!
Niagara Falls has a aerial tramway called the Whirlpool Aero Car and a Funicular. Both are a must ride IMHO.
Just went today. No lines, good flow of people. Parked in the main lot at 10:30, was riding up by 11:05. Beautiful day hiking. Go midweek of a very regular day and enjoy the visit with little waiting.
Good morning Sarah and jeff! What an incredible video. I was able to visit a place I could actually never physically go and with no wait times, beautiful pictures and great narrative.
My girlfriend, later wife, and I took the tram in 1967. At the time it was advertised as the Palms to Pines Tramway. There was no waiting to board the tramway, the major concern was not missing the last tram from the mountain top back to Palm Springs.
Rode the tram about 10 years ago. It was in the summer and there were no crowds. It is truly a great ride from the valley floor. Even at that time of year it was very cool at the top. The tram's rotating floor was quite an experience and gave a very nice 360º view. Crossing each tower gave the tram quite a shake and caused some excitement for the passengers. The Palm Springs Tram is comparable to the tram at Whistler Mountain in British Columbia, also a fantastic experience. Fabulous restaurant at the top of Whistler and numerous activities. Highly recommend both.
Yes, did the Whistler one with the glass bottom!
@@californiahiker9616We ate at the Roundhouse Restaurant at the top. Our table was at the very peak of the restaurant floor overlooking Vancouver. Incredible view! My wife and I still talk about it. Watched a bear climbing down the side of the mountain. We managed to do Whistler twice.....
@@curtgomes I’ll have to go there again, then! My husband hasn’t been to Whistler yet, so good reason for me to visit again! We now live in Northern WA, easier to reach! I went with my niece some years ago after an Alaska cruise. It was an organized trip, so not much time. And it was in August, 90 degrees in Whistler! Thanks for the tip!
@@californiahiker9616Clue: If you make reservations at the restaurant ahead of time, the ride on the tram is thrown in! At least that's the way it was when we were there before Covid. Lot's of fun stuff and activities going on at the top. I'd go back tomorrow.....
@@curtgomes thanks so much! I’ll keep that in mind!
I've never ridden the Tram but i have seen it numerous times as I'm a huge fan of "Mannix", "Columbo", "Mission Impossible", and all the others shows you mentioned. I Love the classics. The new, not so much. Jeff, you never disappoint. I Love your take on History and always look forward to your next post. Hope you and Sarah are doing well, and are having a great St. Patrick's Day. And I gotta mention this (with respect): Every time my wife sees you she says "Look, it's Patrick Duffy". 😊
See you next Sunday. May the Peace of the Lord be with you all.
God Bless
I grew up in Yucca Valley, and my senior prom in 1986 was at the tram .
Loved watching this ! Thanks for the episode ! Brought back memories of our California vacation about 15 years ago, while traveling from Europe. I remember it being a super hot day in August, over 100F. I guess due to the heat we were nearly alone, only three or four other people. We stayed as long as possible on the mountain to enjoy the cooler air and went for a long hike. One of the few times we rode an aerial cablecar outside Switzerland.
If I remember correctly they used Swiss technology building this tram. Same in Banff, Canada.
@@californiahiker9616 Oh yes ! Now that you mention it, I remember seeing a makers plaque of a Swiss company inside the cabin.
I just went on the tramway 🚡 today and it was so amazing. I also hiked up in the San Jacinto mountains and had lunch at the peak. It was hailing up there at 2 pm. Once I got back down to Palm 🌴 Springs, it was 104 degrees 😰 I really enjoyed my trip up to the mountains for the day hike. I would love to be back in the spring when the wild flowers will be blooming. Thanks for sharing your video 😁
great video. love me some History Hunters..
I went up with two daughters and my wife. There were no or issues and we also had amazing snow at the top. I was stunned by the visionary genius behind the entire tram. Amazing!
Another excellent video. You guys have more patience than I.
Got to ride this tram with a girlfriend back in 1973 when ticket prices were only $10. After seeing this video, makes me want to go back for old time's sake and enjoy the cool at the top. I live in Arizona.
I rode the tram for the first time only 10 years ago when I was 52 years old. It was an awesome experience for me. But then again, the Tram Gods were with us - because I don't recall having to wait any 3 hours to get on. We found parking right away, got to the boarding station right away, and was on board fairly quickly. It was worth the money - and back then I think it was something like $25.00 for a ticket. If you're not afraid of heights, I sure as heck recommend it. And yes, there was still snow on the mountain when I went.
The woman next to Sarah certainly loves her selfies…🙄…another good one jeff😉👍🇦🇺🇦🇺
I rode that tram over 50 years ago - it was an amazing and memorable ride.
I went to High School in Indio, and we had our Winter Formals at the top of the tram.
Good job Jeff ! 👍🙏
This brought back fond memories in '64 or '65 of taking the tram with hubs, bro and sis-in- law. Very cold at the top. I don't remember the paved areas where you could go walking around. It was a wonderful experience. Thanks for bringing back those memorie, Jeff and Sarah.
My wife and I rode the Palm Springs Tramway the day after Christmas 2017. The crowds were not bad and we dined at the Peaks Restaurant. There were maybe only 15 or 20 people dining there, at the time, right around sunset. I had been wanting to ride this tramway for years and it was a very good experience. I am looking forward to riding again during summer, either spending a whole day hiking near the peak or perhaps camping overnight. The original Palm Springs tramway was built with equipment supplied by Von Roll, the same company that made the equipment for the San Diego Zoo Skyfari, the Seaworld SkyRide, and the now defunct Disneyland Skyway.
I lived just down the Mountain from here. I've passed it at least 50 times. Thank you Jeff that I No Longet have a Desire to Ride it. Seeing this was All I Needed to Quench that Desire. It Does have a Beautiful View.
They went on a particular busy weekend. I've never gone up the tram when it was that busy. Ever. Week days! Off season! :)
I rode the tram in 1986. I had graduated from Highschool and my Mom took me on a weekend trip to Palm springs. We had lunch at the restaurant that is at the top. It was a wonderful trip. I loved the huge temperature change when you got to the top. Thank you Jeff and Sarah for sharing your trip and bringing back wonderful memories 😊
Thanks for sharing! Glad you liked this!
Driving my Semi across I-10 30 yrs ago I marveled at the snow at the top, then coming back out of the L.A. basin at night I would imagine where the lights went going up the side of the mountain. Now I know , and I thank you ❤️
Very cool! Love the imagery that you described! Happy retirement?
This video showcasing the Palm Springs Aerial Tram ride and its history is absolutely captivating! The journey through the breathtaking scenery of Mount San Jacinto State Park is truly mesmerizing, and learning about the fascinating history behind the tram adds an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. It's incredible to see how this engineering marvel has provided visitors with access to the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of the region for decades. Thank you for sharing this informative and visually stunning exploration - it's definitely on my bucket list now! 🚠🏔 #PalmSpringsAerialTram #MountSanJacinto
Definitely something you should visit next time you are in Palm Springs! I enjoyed the experience, except for the wait times in the hot sun. We just picked a really busy Presidents’ Day weekend.
Hi sarah and jeff, oh my I have never heard of this tram before that is exciting to be able to go for that ride, but the elevation level might make me sick to go that high. did you and sarah enjoy the ride I hope so. looked packed. that part you talked about tv shows I saw the columbo one with roddy mcdowell. he went bonkers on the gondola LOL. very exciting info, and the before picture in B and w of what palm spring used to look like is breath taking. I hope you enjoyed the trip, I enjoyed watching this. Thankyou for taking me along.
6:23 I got dizzy watching Roddy McDowell squirm under Columbo’s line of questioning, intensified by my fear of heights, as the tram made its way to the top of the mountain.
Columbo knew how to make suspects reach their breaking point.
I don’t believe I could enjoy riding the tram although I applaud the vision and ingenuity it took to complete the project.
@@vargasfamily282ha ha yes Rodney was coming apart while columbo was riping him apart. 😂
We are from Australia and went on the tram in 1990 when we were on holiday in America it was a great experience thanks for this video it brought back some great memories and we learnt some new information we were unaware of
I guess Jeff, Sarah, you would prefer direct comments about this Tram, but, my comment is SORTA related. Many's the time that I've been skiing and just when I thought that I'd have a quick easy float back up the mountain, for s fast schuss down, wouldn't you know it, but the lift would sometimes stop 5 minutes at a time, perhaps 12 different occasions for that single ride up the mountain, just so newbies could safely embark/disembark the lift?
For what it's worth, I've ridden similar trams at Heavenly Valley, Palisades Megaplex Ski Area--since Alpine and Squaw have now been united, and the Mount Roberts Tram in Juneau, Alaska. From the top of the last mentioned, my cruise ships looked like bathtub toys, and there were PLENTY of Bald Eagles flitting through the trees, flanking the tram's daylighting. astonishing.
I was just remembering the fight on the tram, from the movie, "Where Eagles Dare", with Richard Burton and Clint Eastwood, though it was not this tram.
Also, NOT this tram, was the fight between Jaws and 007, from "Moonraker".
Nancy Kwan, eh?? I go crazy over her, every time I rewatch "The World of Suzie Wong" with William Holden!
This video really brings back some memories for me, because it was completed the year after I was born, but at the time I didn't know that. In the mid '70s, I made a trip out there because on the way there was a place called the date farm, and they had outrageously good date shakes. Then I went ahead into Palm springs itself, because I had seen videos of how the tram was built. I decided to take a ride on it just for the heck of it because it was a great place to hike around at the top. At that time I believe I paid $2! Evidently, now it's $39.50! I haven't been back there for decades now, but at the top it was at least 30° cooler then the blistering heat on the valley floor. One of my favorite places in those days was Joshua Tree where we would go to do rock climbing and camping
The terrain was so rough that they could only build the first two towers from the bottom using conventional means, then the upper ones were built with the use of helicopters. Maybe this comment is premature because I just started watching the video, nevertheless that was my experience
I’ve been in Palm Springs a couple times but I didn’t know it was there. If I ever get there again thanks to you I’ll probably ride it.
I've been on that tram a few times I loved it.
Oh wow I didnt realize people have to wait this long to visit. My hudband and in 2022 after getting married in LV drove to Palm Springs for a few days. I bought the ticket we parked, hopped on checked out the top came back down...was a 2 hr visit in total. Never waited in line for anything it was the end of May. Guess we were just lucky. It was a really cool and educational experience.
Rode the tram in 75 and again after the new cars were installed. You go thru 4 climate zones and the hiking for the day is beautiful. Also in 75 my van only had drum brakes and on the way down they got hot and I just barely got it stopped at a turn out.😮
I always fear brakes going out, especially coming down Old Priest Grade below Groveland.
Also while my parents were visiting me, we took the fairy boat out to Catalina Island. That was a fun time. Watch as the dolphins follow along with the fairy boat. So cool.
My family took the ride back in the '70s when I was a teenager. I remember it was hot in the valley, but snowy on top! We have a cabin about 40 miles from Mt San Jacinto, and a beautiful view of the mountain through the front window! My wife and I were just there last week.
That was so awesome. Thanks for the thorough background info accompanying the video, Jeff.
what gorgeous views🎊
I always love the videos, and audios you often incorporate.
a great video 👏🏻👏🏻🚊 👏🏻👏🏻
Thanks 👍 love the comment!
I've been here a couple times as my Mom used to live in the area. It always killed my ears coming down, but was so much fun. I was always taken aback by the degree difference too. The last time we rode, we shared the tram with host Leesa Gibbons. Sadly she had the look of please don't approach me but she was also with her family which I can expect and respect now.
I rode that tram in my early 20’s some 40 years ago. It was quite the experience!
I don't think it was that busy when my parents and I were there in the mid 80s. The ride up was wonderful. Beautiful scenery.
Jeff and Sarah, what a great story and thank you so much for sharing.
I now live in Washington state but my home is actually San Bernardino and El Centro. Palm Springs is between the two and I have ridden the tram several times. It certainly didn’t cost $30 when I was riding it. I always loved the experience and you brought back many fond memories. Thank you for sharing this video. I always enjoy my Sunday mornings with you. With you
Visited the tram last year. I remember someone with a stroller kept pushing into my heal and calf. A very tight space when the tram is crowded. Overall a great experience less all the crowds. Thank you for sharing!!
TFS, my husband & I were just talking about going there. Surprised by the number of people visiting.
We were also surprised that there were so many people trying to get up there the same hour, but in the afternoon when we left there there was nobody waiting to go up. Wouldn’t you know it?
Wow what a ride, but yeah I'm with Sarah the look on her face when you said "how long did we wait"? 🤣 thanks for sharing Jeff and Sarah 👍 safe travels
What a great ride, and informative video! The history of the tram, along with the celebs in the gondolas was very interesting. I stood at the tram entrance some years ago and just couldn’t get in! A year or two before that I had gone on the Squaw Valley tram. We were caught in a rainstorm midway through. The gondolas stopped and were swinging in the wind, back and forth. It was a short summer storm, and after a few minutes we were on our way. It took me 30 years to go on a tram ride again. In recent years I *uneasily* braved “peak to peak” in Whistler, and last year the Banff Gondola.
If you want a similar view to the one from the mountain top in the 1960’s, go to Death Valley Dante’s View. It’s not nearly as high as Mt Jacinto, but the views are awesome!
What a nice adventure, Sarah and Jeff. Sorry you had to wait in line so long, but thanks for doing so!
Our family rode the tram in about 1967. Great fun and interesting to experience the temperature change. Great trip back in time. Thanks.
Wow!
I hadn't thought about the 'Tram' in YEARS!
Used to ride/enjoy it and all the wonderful Summer hikes in the forest, Winters with our 'Boogie Boards' to sled down the snow-covered hills!
I can't believe those long wait times/lines though! Holy Moly! (My how times have changed)
Yeah, lots more people in California now!
I have enjoyed a few rides on tram, but it's been a few years. Thanks for the memories.
Our pleasure! Hope you are doing well!
Yep, doing well.@@jbenziggy
After watching this🚠🚠🚠 🚠 i think ill stick to going up and down the stairs at home 😊😊😊😊
I was there in 2022 that was my second visit it’s absolutely beautiful. I went when there was still snow at the top .. can’t wait to go back soon
was on my bucket list. 3 hours, not so much anymore, thanks for the insight
I am hearing that our experience was out of the norm so I'm sure the crowds are not bad on times other than three-day weekends!
The view from the top is awesome! I'd love to go for a ride on the tram.
My first trip on the tram was New Years Day, 2004, I believe. It was about 45 degrees in the parking lot and about 8 degrees at the top. My second trip was In August 2007, if memory serves, It was about 110 degrees in the parking lot and about 68 degrees at the top. A wonderful experience and nice restaurants at the top. They were a bit pricy then but still good food. Thanks for the memories, Jeff and Sarah!
I wonder how busy it gets in the summertime when people need to flee the extreme heat in Palm Springs?
Good question, if I had to give an estimate, I would say 50 to 60% of holiday business.@@jbenziggy
Awesome
Awesome day out! Great video!
I took a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway during the Spring of 1974 with my friend. It was a very hot day and I loved it when I got to the top where it was so much cooler. In fact there was still patches of snow on the ground. I also met Bob Hope during my visit to Palm Springs as he was playing in a charity 9 hole golf event.
I was honored to hold the door open for Bob Hope when he visited the Modesto Center Plaza!
Lived in San Diego most my life, never went. Should have gone! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching! Maybe if you go back you can check it out?
I've never taken a ride on it, but the view looks incredible. Love the historical information about it - and its many famous passengers.
I rode the tram in February of 2020. It was Amazing! And there was no wait time.
I rode the Tram in the early 2000s sometime in March and it was not crowded, and we really had no waiting time. The top was much like you experienced and was 30 degrees cooler than the valley floor. Much like riding the old gondola cars at Disneyland that went through the Matterhorn.
great video.. the amount of wait time the 2 of you endured to ride the tram reminds me of why i avoid going anywhere on a Holiday weekend/3 day weekend . I prefer the minimal number of fellow humans when visiting such places......
I've been to Palm Springs, but never been on the tram. I used to live in Apple Valley, And Lucerne Valley areas. I have visited all of the desert towns and attractions. Calico ghost town, Lake Deloris when I was a kid. Frontier village and such.
I rode it up back in ‘85 and it was extremely hot in Palm Springs while I was there 120F+ At least going to the top of the mountain gave you some relief from the heat. The one at Heavenly is nice too and extremely scenic.
So. Cool !!! Thanks for sharing!!!
The scenery is amazing and glad you and Sarah rode it safely Love you both and thankyou for another stunning video
I had no idea about the renovation including rotating tram cars. That would be amazing for a lot of people including me. Fortunately I don't get motion sickness or seasickness, so I would enjoy it thoroughly, the way I enjoy roller coasters
I have not. It would be wonderful. Thanks for taking all of those along who haven't been there.
Nice trip up to the mountain, thanks. I take the tram about once a year to play in the snow. Great fun and a nice time in the woods.
Very cool!
Beautiful! I have never been to California but hope to one day. Thank you for sharing your adventures!
Thanks for watching! California is a beautiful state for sure!
I lived in Palm Springs from 1976 until 1993 and took the tram many times.. I only rode in the old tram Cars would love to take a ride in the new ones.
Late 70's, my parents took me. The only thing I really remember is the ascent and how close the cliffs came to the tram in some spots. I also remember that the view left an impression despite me being only 8 or 9 years of age.
Never heard of this before and I have lived in CA for 6 decades. Very cool.
That was fun, neat view.