Does anyone know anything about a tram ride up a mountain in/around Palm Springs? Is it worth a stop on a trip to LA/SanDiego area?

The Aerial Tramway is just outside of PS and rides you up a mountain, with breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley and the desert. The temperature differential between PS and the top of the tramway is some 20 degrees, which is mind-blowing itself. It's well worth putting on your itinerary IF you're on a 3-day trip in the desert. However, I would not take a 2-hour trip out from LA or SD just for the tramway.

I believe the tram goes up San Jacinto Mountain. (elev. 11,000) I went one time when temp at Palm Springs was 102 and temp on mountain was 27 and a snowstorm! Great views and nice building at top with hiking trail.

The tram ride itself is nice...but nothing spectacular.

It is what you get at the top of the tram thats fabulous...besides the cooler temps.

The tram takes you to a 13,000 acre pristine forest with 54 miles of hiking trails. It's wonderful.

http://www.pstramway.com/

The Tram of Terror, the Gondola of Death....just kidding. However, if you have a problem with heights or altitude sickness, don't do it. I did get a hellacious buzz of one beer. The veiws are stunning.

It is worth a ride up. The average temp. differential between top and bottom is about 40 degrees F. Don't eat the food.

I agree that although it is pretty cool, I don't know if it is worth a trip deviation from LA-San Diego just for that.

Is there a way to get to the top without using the tram?

Hiking! A great hike albeit you have to be in good shape. Fantastic views and the conifers are magnificent. Several different hikes you can do. Then take the tram down!

Can you really hike it? Are the trails on the back side?

Absolutely! Over 50 miles of trails in the park. One of John Muir's favorite places.

I have done the hike up Chino Canyon to the top of the tram. From the Valley Station to the Mountain Station is about 6,000 vertical feet elevation gain. It is a fairly strenuous hike and depending on what kind of shape yo are on takes 6-1/2 to 10 hours. It is a great hike. You can also hike to the top of the tram from the Idyllwild side.