The tramway cars were manufactured in Switzerland by Doppelmayr, a company with over 100 years of experience building cable cars. In fact, Doppelmayr built the original cars back in 1963.

The trip takes about 10 minutes, and is very smooth and quiet. The pilot stands in the center, and the outside perimeter of the car spins very slowly, offering a spectacular view.

Watch out though, when the tram car moves over each of the three support towers, you do get a little 'air time,' which caused our passengers to cry out, like we were on a roller coaster.

Once at the top of the mountain, we entered into a ski resort type of structure, which led us out into a beautiful alpine wilderness -- part of the San Bernardino National Forest. Pine trees, hiking trails, wildlife, and crisp clean mountain air. In Palm Springs it was about 105°, and in San Jacinto State Park it was about 75°

Even though we weren't really dressed for hiking [read: wrong shoes], we still spent about an hour hiking around the marked trails, and enjoying the cool air and beautiful surroundings.

Along with the nature portion, the Mountain Station also features a restaurant, bar, gift shop and visitor center. After the hike, we sat down in the small theater and watched a short film about the wilderness area. Very low-tech and fun.

We bought a few beverages, and a couple souvenirs, and sat out on the outdoor porch area, where we could look down and see the Palm Springs/Palm Desert area.

After a couple of hours we were ready to head back.

As a side note. We observed a few people who were almost overcome by the altitude. Including one man who collapsed in the lobby and had to be taken back down in a wheelchair. So take it easy.

Also, the drive up to the main building is a deceivingly steep grade. Be sure to turn off your a/c as cars are prone to overheat.

It's an excellent side trip, well worth the cost. We recommend the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

Did you know that Palm Springs has had a museum since 1938? And currently has a beautiful collection of modern art? Well, it does. The Palm Springs Desert Museum.

Check it out.