PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAMWAY 3-12-12

Justin and Alexander convinced their Dad's to take them to the driving range today. Unfortunately Hope was sick with a "bug" so Sheila, Tatianna, Libby, Tom and I decided to ride the tram up the side of San Jacinto Peak.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway in Palm Springs, California is the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world. It was opened in September 1963 as a way of getting from the floor of the Coachella Valley to near the top of San Jacinto Peak and was constructed in rugged Chino Canyon. Before its construction, the only way to the top of the mountain was to hike for several hours from Idyllwild.

The view at the top can stretch northward for more than 200 mi (320 km) on a clear day, all the way to Mount Charleston north of Las Vegas, Nevada. Views to the east and west can stretch as far as 75 mi (121 km). California's Salton Sea is plainly visible to the southeast.  We travelled approximately 12,800' with vertical ascent of 5,873' - 15 minutes travel time one way.  Elevation at Valley Station - 2,643' and 8,516' at Mountain Station.

 Tom's Granddad Gibbens bought property in the desert of Salton Sea in hopes of it becoming valuable someday.  It has been passed down through the generations to Tom and we are still waiting.




























































After all the excitement, we were hungry so went to the famous "In-N-Out" burgers.  Libby &
Tom never had one.  I wanted to go because I found out that they have a lettuce wrap burger for those who don't want a bun.  It was after 1 and the place was PACKED.   Unbelievable.  The food was great!  They make their own fries there and are crisp & delicious.


Upon returning, everyone else packed to return to LA. that evening. Now it is just Tom, Lexi, and I again. We plan to stay here until the first of next week. It is absolutely gorgeous everywhere we look (except the desert).