18 Scenic Mountain Tramways and Gondolas in the U.S. With Easy Access
If you love breathtaking mountain views but prefer not to trek for hours, scenic tramways and gondolas across the U.S. offer the perfect solution. These rides allow you to experience stunning landscapes, whether you’re gliding through lush forests or taking in sweeping vistas of mountain ranges. With a few minutes in the air, you can find yourself high above, gazing out at some of the most picturesque scenery in the country. The best part? No long hikes required. Whether you’re visiting in the winter for snow-capped views or in the summer to see vibrant green valleys, these rides provide a relaxing way to enjoy the great outdoors.
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Aerial Tramway, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The Aerial Tramway in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offers an incredible view of the surrounding Teton Mountain Range. The tram transports visitors up to an elevation of 10,450 feet, where stunning panoramic views of the valley, nearby mountains, and Jackson Hole can be enjoyed. It is known for its 12-minute ride, which provides a smooth and quick journey to the top, perfect for those who do not want to commit to long hikes. Once at the summit, visitors can take in the awe-inspiring scenery, including views of the Snake River and the National Elk Refuge.
The tram operates year-round, offering unique seasonal experiences like skiing in the winter and hiking during the warmer months. This is an excellent way to see the beauty of Wyoming without the strenuous physical effort of a hike. The tram is also a popular spot for photography, with some of the best vistas in the area.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, California
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the most scenic gondolas in the U.S., known for its 2.5-mile journey from the desert floor to the San Jacinto Mountains. This tram is the world’s largest rotating tramcar, offering a unique experience as it slowly turns to give visitors a 360-degree view of the Coachella Valley. The tram ride begins at 2,643 feet and ascends to 8,516 feet, taking passengers on a breathtaking ride that showcases both desert and mountain landscapes.
Once at the top, the San Jacinto Mountains provide a remarkable contrast to the heat of the desert. Visitors can enjoy the views, take a short stroll around the observation deck, or explore the alpine wilderness. The tram is perfect for those who wish to experience mountain beauty without the challenge of hiking to such heights. The tram operates year-round, offering a cool escape from the desert heat during the summer months.
Gatlinburg SkyLift, Tennessee
The Gatlinburg SkyLift provides an exciting opportunity to see the Great Smoky Mountains without long, tiring hikes. This chairlift transports passengers from the heart of Gatlinburg to the top of Crockett Mountain, where they are greeted with sweeping views of the Smokies. The ride takes about 10 minutes, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. At the summit, there is a beautiful observation deck that overlooks the town of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains.
The SkyLift is a popular attraction, especially during the fall months when the foliage turns into vibrant colors. It’s a perfect alternative for those who want to witness the mountains’ natural beauty with minimal physical effort. The experience is relaxing and provides ample opportunities for photos, making it a favorite for visitors of all ages.
Steamboat Springs Gondola, Colorado
The Steamboat Springs Gondola offers a quick and scenic ride up to the mountain peak, making it a fantastic option for those looking for views without a challenging hike. The gondola operates year-round, giving visitors a chance to enjoy snow-covered mountains in the winter or lush green scenery in the warmer months. The ride takes you from the base area to the summit in just a few minutes, providing expansive views of the Yampa Valley. At the top, visitors can look out over the ski slopes in winter and the vibrant wildflowers during the summer.
The gondola is perfect for those who want to enjoy Steamboat Springs’ mountain beauty without exerting much physical effort. There are also many nearby activities, including hiking, dining, and sightseeing, making it an ideal destination for a relaxed mountain getaway. The gondola’s smooth and quick ride is one of the easiest ways to see the incredible views from Steamboat.
Whistler Blackcomb Peak 2 Peak Gondola, Washington
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola at Whistler Blackcomb in Washington offers an unforgettable way to experience breathtaking mountain views without long hikes. The gondola links two of the resort’s highest peaks, providing a unique aerial view of the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. It holds the world record for the highest lift in the world, reaching an elevation of 7,494 feet.
The gondola’s ride is a thrill, offering passengers a smooth, gentle ascent while taking in spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness, alpine lakes, and glaciers. The Peak 2 Peak gondola is ideal for those who want to experience both mountain peaks without hiking between them. Visitors can also enjoy the ride in winter, where the snow-covered landscape creates a magical experience. The gondola operates year-round, giving adventurers the chance to experience the region’s beauty in all seasons.
Heavenly Gondola, Lake Tahoe, California
The Heavenly Gondola in Lake Tahoe provides an incredible way to see the lake and surrounding mountains with minimal effort. This scenic gondola takes passengers from the base of Heavenly Mountain Resort to the summit, offering sweeping views of Lake Tahoe along the way. The ride takes about 15 minutes and ascends to an elevation of 9,100 feet, providing breathtaking vistas of both the lake and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. At the summit, visitors can enjoy the observation deck, which offers one of the best panoramic views in the region.
The gondola is a great way to explore the area without the need for strenuous hiking, and it operates throughout the year, providing access to skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. This gondola is particularly popular with those who want to enjoy both the mountain scenery and the crystal-clear views of Lake Tahoe. The ride is a peaceful and scenic experience that appeals to nature lovers of all ages.
Trondhjemen Gondola, Oregon
The Trondhjemen Gondola, located near the base of Mount Hood, is a great option for visitors who wish to enjoy breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains without hiking for hours. The gondola ride takes just a few minutes to reach the summit, where passengers are treated to sweeping views of Mount Hood, as well as nearby valleys and forests.
This gondola is perfect for those who want to quickly reach the top to experience the beauty of the area. Visitors can enjoy short walks around the summit area or simply relax and take in the picturesque scenery. In addition to the views, the gondola is surrounded by several popular hiking trails that can be explored once visitors reach the top. The ride is smooth and gentle, offering a relaxing way to see the surrounding nature without the effort of a long hike. The Trondhjemen Gondola is an ideal choice for those seeking a more laid-back mountain experience.
Big Bear Mountain Sky Chair, California
Big Bear Lake is home to the Sky Chair, a scenic gondola ride that offers panoramic views of the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains. The Sky Chair transports visitors up the mountain to an elevation of over 8,000 feet, providing access to breathtaking vistas of Big Bear Lake, the mountain peaks, and the lush forest below.
The ride takes only a few minutes, making it a convenient way to see the area without embarking on a lengthy hike. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy the observation deck or take a stroll along the ridge to experience the natural beauty. The Sky Chair is especially popular in the winter months when snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. The ride is relaxing and provides fantastic photo opportunities for those who want to capture the beauty of Big Bear from above. The Sky Chair is an excellent alternative for those who want to enjoy mountain views with minimal effort.
Mount Rainier Gondola, Washington
The Mount Rainier Gondola offers one of the most scenic rides in the Pacific Northwest, providing visitors with views of the iconic Mount Rainier. This gondola takes passengers from the base of the mountain to an elevation of 7,000 feet in just a few minutes, giving them access to some of the best views in the region. The ride offers spectacular vistas of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests.
The gondola is a popular choice for those who want to experience the beauty of the mountain without spending hours hiking. During the summer, visitors can enjoy lush greenery and wildflower blooms, while winter brings a magical snow-covered landscape. The Mount Rainier Gondola is an excellent way to explore the region’s natural beauty without much physical effort.
Snowbird Tram, Utah
The Snowbird Tram in Utah is a must-visit for those seeking a quick way to explore the Wasatch Mountains. This tram transports visitors from the base of Snowbird Resort to the top of Hidden Peak, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The tram ride is about 10 minutes long and takes visitors to an elevation of 11,000 feet, offering sweeping views of the Salt Lake Valley.
The Snowbird Tram is known for its stunning views of the rugged mountains and is a great alternative for those who do not want to hike up the steep terrain. The tram is particularly popular in winter, as it gives easy access to the ski slopes. Whether visiting in winter or summer, the Snowbird Tram is a perfect way to experience the Wasatch Mountains.
Mount Hood Scenic Lift, Oregon
The Mount Hood Scenic Lift provides an easy and spectacular way to enjoy views of Oregon’s iconic Mount Hood. The lift takes passengers to an elevation of 6,000 feet, offering a relaxed, scenic ride with expansive views of the surrounding wilderness. Once at the top, visitors can take in the majestic sight of Mount Hood, as well as views of nearby valleys and forests. The ride is gentle, making it ideal for families, photographers, and those who wish to take in the natural beauty without the effort of a long hike.
The lift operates year-round, offering access to mountain trails during the summer months and ski slopes in the winter. It’s a great option for visitors of all ages who want to experience Mount Hood’s beauty at a leisurely pace. The scenic lift offers a peaceful and calming experience, perfect for enjoying the quiet alpine environment.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort Gondola, Idaho
Schweitzer Mountain Resort offers a thrilling gondola ride that transports visitors up the mountainside to panoramic views of the surrounding Coeur d’Alene Mountains. The gondola ride takes just a few minutes and provides stunning views of pristine forests, mountain peaks, and the valley below. Schweitzer is one of the most scenic areas in Idaho, and this gondola offers a fantastic opportunity to experience it without the long physical effort of hiking to the top.
The gondola operates year-round, offering skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing in the summer. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the gondola ride offers a smooth and serene way to explore the region’s natural beauty. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the sights without exerting much effort.
Sandia Peak Tramway, Albuquerque, New Mexico
The Sandia Peak Tramway is one of the most unique tramways in the U.S., offering a ride up to Sandia Peak for exceptional views of Albuquerque and the surrounding desert landscape. At over 10,000 feet, the tram provides sweeping views of the city, as well as the rugged terrain of the Sandia Mountains. The ride takes about 15 minutes, allowing visitors plenty of time to take in the incredible scenery as they ascend to the top. Once at the peak, visitors are treated to panoramic vistas that stretch for miles across the high desert, with views of the Rio Grande Valley and the Jemez Mountains.
The Sandia Peak Tramway is especially popular during sunset, when the desert landscape is bathed in warm hues. The tram offers a perfect opportunity for those who want to experience breathtaking mountain views without the difficulty of hiking. Whether visiting in summer or winter, the tramway provides a relaxing way to see one of New Mexico’s most stunning landscapes.
Crystal Mountain Gondola, Washington
The Crystal Mountain Gondola offers visitors a scenic ride up to the summit of Crystal Mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the Cascade Range, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding forests. The gondola takes just 12 minutes to reach the top, offering a smooth ride through towering trees and alpine meadows. At the summit, visitors can relax and take in the magnificent views of Mount Rainier, one of the tallest volcanoes in the U.S., while watching skiers and snowboarders on the slopes below.
In the summer, the area transforms into a beautiful destination for hiking, with wildflowers and lush greenery surrounding the gondola station. The gondola is ideal for those who want to experience the stunning natural beauty of the area without the strenuous effort of a long hike. Crystal Mountain is a prime spot for visitors looking to enjoy both the mountain landscape and the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness. The gondola ride offers a quick and easy way to enjoy one of Washington’s most beautiful peaks.
Winter Park Resort Gondola, Colorado
Winter Park Resort’s gondola ride offers a fantastic way to explore the Colorado Rockies, providing spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. The gondola transports passengers from the base of the resort to the top of Parsenn Bowl, where they are treated to views of snow-capped peaks and alpine forests. The ride is quick and smooth, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the scenery without the challenge of hiking.
Once at the top, visitors can take in panoramic vistas and participate in a variety of activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer. The gondola also offers an excellent opportunity for photography, with the majestic Rockies serving as a stunning backdrop. Winter Park is one of the top ski resorts in Colorado, and the gondola ride is a must-do for those looking to experience the beauty of the area. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the mountains without the physical exertion of a long hike.
Telluride Gondola, Colorado
The Telluride Gondola offers a unique and scenic way to experience the beauty of the San Juan Mountains without the need for a long hike. This free gondola connects the town of Telluride with Mountain Village, providing a smooth ride over the rugged terrain. The gondola takes visitors up the mountainside, offering stunning views of the valley below and the surrounding peaks. At the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Telluride region, with its beautiful alpine lakes and jagged mountain ranges.
The gondola operates year-round, with the winter months offering access to ski slopes and the summer months providing hiking trails and vibrant wildflowers. It’s an excellent way to enjoy Telluride’s beauty, especially for those who want to skip the effort of a hike. The gondola ride is also an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages, providing access to some of the most scenic spots in Colorado.
Big Sky Resort Lone Peak Tram, Montana
The Lone Peak Tram at Big Sky Resort offers one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Montana’s mountainous landscape. The tram takes visitors up to the summit of Lone Peak, where they are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding Gallatin Mountain Range. The ride is a quick and smooth journey, but it offers stunning vistas of the valleys and forests below. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy unparalleled views of Yellowstone National Park and the Madison Range.
The Lone Peak Tram is ideal for those who want to experience the beauty of the area without the effort of hiking to such heights. In winter, the tram offers access to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region. The tram is open year-round, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the mountain’s beauty in all seasons.
Snowbasin Resort Gondola, Utah
Snowbasin Resort offers a scenic gondola ride that provides fantastic views of the Wasatch Mountains and the surrounding valley. The gondola takes visitors to an elevation of over 8,000 feet, providing sweeping vistas of the mountain range and the Ogden Valley below. The ride is quick, smooth, and ideal for those who want to take in the views without the effort of hiking to such heights. At the top, visitors can enjoy the peaceful alpine environment, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and dense forests.
The gondola is open year-round, with winter offering access to world-class ski slopes, and summer providing a beautiful hiking experience. Whether visiting in winter or summer, the Snowbasin Gondola provides a relaxed and scenic way to experience the beauty of Utah’s Wasatch Mountains. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a quick yet scenic mountain experience.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.