Palisades Aerial Tram
Soar to 8,200 feet on the Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram for breathtaking mountain vistas and access to High Camp's summer activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for stunning views
Palisades Aerial Tram
Best Time
Best visibility for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soar to 8,200 feet on the Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram for breathtaking mountain vistas and access to High Camp's summer activities.
"Magnificent views over the snowy mountains! So beautiful. Very professionally and safely operated."
🎯 Check the Weather First
The tram can close due to lightning. Always check the forecast before heading up!
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and secure your spot by purchasing Aerial Tram tickets in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Aerial Tram Ride
Soar 1.5 miles up to 8,200 feet for stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Tahoe.
High Camp Exploration
Top of the Aerial Tram
Access hiking trails, roller skating, disc golf, and BBQ with a view at the summit.
Historic Olympic Legacy
Olympic Valley
Discover the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, a significant part of California's sporting history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Clear Skies are Key
Tickets & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check the Weather First
The tram can close due to lightning. Always check the forecast before heading up!
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and secure your spot by purchasing Aerial Tram tickets in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore at High Camp, so comfy footwear is a must for hiking or walking.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Summer Fun
Bring your furry friends! Dogs ride the tram for free in the summer.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check the Weather First
The tram can close due to lightning. Always check the forecast before heading up!
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and secure your spot by purchasing Aerial Tram tickets in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore at High Camp, so comfy footwear is a must for hiking or walking.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Summer Fun
Bring your furry friends! Dogs ride the tram for free in the summer.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is incredible! Don't forget your camera or phone for amazing photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram for its magnificent, far-reaching views of the surrounding snowy mountains and Lake Tahoe. The ride is described as enjoyable and safe, offering a unique experience akin to traveling in an 'air bus.' Many appreciate the convenience and the abundance of activities available at High Camp, making it a highlight for both winter ski trips and summer hikes.
"Took the tram of the mountain and had beautiful sunny day with great views of the surrounding area including Lake tahoe. Visibility must have been over 30 miles."
Thomas Brand
"I thought I'd be scared but I wasn't. The observation area was so quiet and peaceful. My brother and I stayed up there for a couple hours."
chris bringaze
"Excellent ride while on our ski day trip in the Palisades Tahoe! Magnificent views over the snowy mountains! So beautiful. Very professionally and safely operated and very convenient. They open at 9am with the rest of the resort and we waited outside at about 8:45 to get the first tram onto the slopes. Such a great 10-15 min ride to the top with magnificent views. Highly recommended"
Jo V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Aerial Tram is located at the Palisades Tahoe ski resort in Olympic Valley, California. You can drive to the resort, and while parking can fill up fast, there are paid options available.
While paid parking is common, some visitors have inquired about free parking options. It's best to check the resort's official website or recent visitor forums for the most up-to-date information on parking availability and costs.
The drive to Olympic Valley offers scenic mountain views. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak ski season or weekends.
Information on public transport options to Palisades Tahoe can vary. It's recommended to check local transit schedules or ride-sharing services for the most convenient routes.
The Aerial Tram is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to contact Palisades Tahoe directly for specific accessibility details regarding the tram and facilities at High Camp.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram typically range from $39 to $49 per person. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Palisades Tahoe website for current pricing.
You can purchase Aerial Tram tickets online through the official Palisades Tahoe website or at the ticket window at the resort. Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during busy periods.
The Aerial Tram operates on a seasonal schedule. It's often open Fridays-Sundays, with daily operations beginning in late June. Always check the Palisades Tahoe website for the most current schedule.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or during specific promotions. Check the Palisades Tahoe website or inquire at the ticket window for any available offers.
An Ikon Pass primarily grants access to skiing and snowboarding. It's unlikely to include free access to the Aerial Tram for sightseeing, but it's always best to confirm the specific benefits of your pass with Ikon Pass or Palisades Tahoe.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At High Camp, you can enjoy hiking trails, roller skating, disc golf, and a BBQ with scenic views. It's a hub for summer activities after your tram ride.
The Aerial Tram ride is approximately 10-15 minutes long, covering about 1.5 miles and ascending to over 8,000 feet. +1
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Aerial Tram during the summer months and ride for free. Donations to the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe are encouraged for a souvenir pass.
The views are described as stunning and breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and Lake Tahoe.
While the views are spectacular, some visitors find the height intimidating, though many report not being scared and enjoying the experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a BBQ available at High Camp, offering food with a view after your tram ride. +1
Dining options at Palisades Tahoe range from casual BBQ at High Camp to various restaurants and cafes in The Village, offering diverse choices.
While specific policies on outside food can vary, it's generally a good idea to check with Palisades Tahoe for their current regulations. However, enjoying the High Camp BBQ is a popular experience.
Dining establishments at Palisades Tahoe often offer a variety of options. It's recommended to check menus online or inquire directly with the restaurants for specific dietary accommodations.
As with most resort areas, dining prices can be on the higher side. Budgeting for meals is advisable, especially if you plan to dine at the resort's restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire tram ride offers incredible photo opportunities. Aim for shots looking out towards Lake Tahoe or capturing the vast mountain ranges.
Absolutely! High Camp provides stunning vantage points for photography, with expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful colors. Clear days are essential for maximizing visibility.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so check with Palisades Tahoe if you plan extensive shoots.
You can capture the tram ascending or descending against the mountain backdrop, or close-ups of the tram cars with the scenic views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In the summer, dogs are welcome on the tram, making it a great outing for families with furry members too! 💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
You can take your time exploring High Camp's trails or simply soak in the panoramic views at your own pace. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram
This iconic structure was a key part of the infrastructure for the 1960 Winter Olympics held in Squaw Valley (now Palisades Tahoe), marking a pivotal moment for winter sports in the Western United States. Today, the tram continues to be a central feature of the resort, offering visitors a unique and breathtaking journey to High Camp. It's not just a mode of transport; it's an experience that connects guests to the resort's rich past and its stunning natural surroundings. The tram's enduring presence highlights its importance to the identity and appeal of Palisades Tahoe.
Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable ride, the Aerial Tram provides a tangible link to the pioneering spirit of the ski industry and the legacy of the Olympic Games. Its impressive scale and historical significance make it a must-see attraction for any visitor.
Experiencing High Camp: More Than Just a View
+1For the more adventurous, High Camp serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails. Whether you're looking for a short, scenic stroll or a more challenging trek, there are options for all fitness levels. Popular routes include hikes through Shirley Canyon, offering opportunities to discover waterfalls and enjoy the alpine scenery.
High Camp also offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The dog-friendly policy in the summer makes it an ideal spot for those traveling with pets, adding to the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere of the resort.
Navigating Palisades Tahoe: From Parking to Peaks
The Aerial Tram is a central element of the Palisades Tahoe experience, connecting the base area to High Camp. The ride itself is a highlight, offering spectacular views and a smooth ascent.
Once at High Camp, the resort provides a variety of activities, from summer recreation like roller skating and hiking to winter sports. The resort's history as the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics adds a layer of cultural and sporting significance to any visit. Visitors often praise the resort for its diverse offerings, catering to both skiers and snowboarders in the winter and hikers and sightseers in the summer. The combination of stunning natural beauty, historical importance, and a wide range of activities makes Palisades Tahoe a compelling destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit