Author: Wendy VanHatten

Travel writer, author, editor, magazine editor-in-chief, traveler, co-founder of www.forkscorksandbrews.com
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Indian Canyons, Palm Springs

Indian Canyons, Palm Springs

A trip to the Palm Springs area might be your pleasure if you are looking for world-class golf courses. Then again, with countless up-scale restaurants and bars steeped in old Hollywood legends maybe your goal is to find places Marilyn Monroe or Dean Martin ate and drank. Speaking of Marilyn, take a walking tour or a driving tour of famous homes. Of course, fantastic shopping is just around the corner.

Did you know you can also spend some time with more than 150 species of plants…all within a half-mile radius? Did you know you could be walking through an actual oasis?

Indian Canyons are the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The canyons are especially sacred to the Agua Caliente people. They are also historically important to scientists and nature lovers.

The Agua Caliente people have lived here for thousands of years. They grew crops of melons, squash, beans, and corn. They also gathered plants and seeds for food, medicines, and basket weaving. Some of their house pits, irrigation ditches, dams, and reservoirs still exist in the canyons.

The Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Palm Canyon is the world’s largest California Fan Palm Oasis.

We spent a couple of hours walking along the Andreas Canyon. The scenic trail was considered easy and most of it was. It is narrow in spots so be prepared to wait if there are other people ahead of you or are coming towards you. There are also large rocks to step up on or down off, so wear good walking shoes.

Huge rocks, which seem to fill the sky, line the trail on one side. Stately palms of all sizes line the clear-water creek on the other side. Singing, chirping, and happy birds accompanied us on our walk.

Keep in mind, this is a desert hike. It may look like the beautiful, lush oasis it is but it is still the dessert. During part of this walk we were shaded and cool as we made our way along the creek. Another part found us walking along the top of the ridge, in the bright sun. We were glad for our water bottles.

After our walk, we drove up to the Palm Canyon area part of the canyons. This 15 mile-long is abundant with more California Fan Palms and stark, rocky gorges overlooking the desert landscape.

Palm Springs has so much to offer. Take time to explore the Indian Canyons area next time you are in the area. It’s a welcome contrast.

If You Go: Indian Canyons is located at 38520 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA. There is a charge to enter. Find out more at https://www.indian-canyons.com/

Looking for more places to explore in Palm Springs? Check out https://travelsandescapes.net/?s=palm+springs

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San Diego Zoo

We spent the better part of a day at the San Diego Zoo recently.

Starting with the bus trip, which was included in our ticket price, this was a great to get oriented. With an overall view of the entire zoo, this helped us decide the areas where we definitely wanted to spend more time.

Our driver explained the individual areas and the animals that would normally live in either that continent or country. She stopped often along the way to show us an animal if they were visible. If they were not, she gave us some hints on the best time to see them.

She also told us about a “kangaroo bus” which is a hop on, hop off bus. This bus stops at four different spots throughout the entire zoo. We used this bus at the end of the day when we wanted to get to one more place.

Well laid out, the San Diego Zoo let us go from Africa to Asia and everywhere in between. We saw animals of that specific area. Signage by each animal helped us  learn as it would explain the animal, their habitat, and pertinent facts about their life in the wild.

Volunteers are readily available to answer questions, give directions, and help with navigating the map. We stopped and asked questions several times.

Since we had reservation at Albert’s Restaurant, a sit-down restaurant at the San Diego Zoo, we headed there to eat lunch. Albert’s, located in the Lost Forest Zone, is a full-service restaurant. Both inside and  outside offer a terrific view of the private waterfall. With a tasty lunch we enjoyed a glass of wine. Not a bad way to enjoy the zoo.

Albert’s was named for the most famous resident ever at the San Diego Zoo. He was a handsome silverback western lowland gorilla. Born in Africa, Albert arrived at the zoo in 1949 when  he was four months old. He and two baby female lowland gorillas were hand raised at the nursery at the zoo. When he reached maturity, he lived in an open-air grotto, located where the restaurant is now located.

In 1965 Albert fathered the first western lowland gorilla at the San Diego  Zoo. This was only  the seventh gorilla born in any zoo. He died peacefully in 1978. His grandchildren  and great-grandchildren are still living at the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego  Zoo  Safari Park.

The rest of the day we wandered past lions, tigers, and bears. Oh my…what a great way to spend a day.

For more San Diego fun, check out https://travelsandescapes.net/?s=san+diego

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Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards

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We just wanted to share with you some great news from the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition!  All 10 of the wines we entered won awards (a Clean Sweep!), including the White Sweepstakes which was the “Best White” of the show for our 2020 Viognier.  We also won Best of Class for 2020 Grenache Blanc, 2020 Roussanne and 2020 Picpoul Blanc.
 
Here’s a post by wine writer Mike Dunne (SF Chronicle/Sacramento Bee):
 
“Several intriguing storylines emerged from the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, which concluded its four-day run in Cloverdale today. None of them may be more significant than the showing of Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards of Lodi. Consider: More than 5,800 wines from throughout North America were entered, broken down into almost 200 classes, evaluated by some 50 judges. Acquiesce won a perhaps unprecedented four best-of-class awards. And these weren’t small classes. The Acquiesce Picpoul Blanc was up against 41 other white varietal wines. The Acquiesce Roussanne was up against 19 others. The Acquiesce Viognier was up against 52 others. Remarkably, all four Acquiesce best-of-class wines were nominated by judges for the sweepstakes round, which included 13 other white wines, including a classically rich Chardonnay, a spirited Sauvignon Blanc, a peachy and spicy Riesling, and a lychee-lined Chenin Blanc from Mexico. With four candidates in the lineup, Acquiesce not only was competing against that strong and diverse field, it was competing against itself for the top award. Nevertheless, the fragrant and mellifluous Acquiesce 2020 Lodi Mokelumne River Viognier ($30) emerged as the competition’s best white wine. No longer should Lodi be seen as the land of only hearty red wines.”
 
Mike Dunne’s review of our Best White Wine of the Show – Viognier:
“Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards 2020 Lodi Mokelumne River Viognier: Susan Tipton’s masterful hand with white grapes traditionally associated with France’s Rhone Valley was recognized with remarkable consistency at the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competitions. Four of her white varietal wines topped their classes, with her mellifluous 2020 Viognier going all the way to win the competition’s award for best white wine on the strength of its honeysuckle perfume and tuneful suggestions of peach orchard. It outdistanced 16 other nominated whites for the top honor in the final round of voting.”
 
And our Best of Class Grenache Blanc:
“Acquiesce Winery & Vineyard 2020 Lodi Grenache Blanc: A variety most at home in France’s Rhone Valley, Grenache Blanc is gaining adherents in California, thanks largely to the gumption and imagination of Susan Tipton of Acquiesce in Lodi. She appreciates food-and-wine pairing to an extent that is exceptional even in California’s winemaking community, and as a consequence styles her wines to shine at the dinner table, which her Grenache Blanc will do for its refreshingly citric flavor, steely structure and dry and snappy finish. Whatever fresh seafood is on the plate, this Grenache Blanc should be in the glass.”
 
And our Best of Class Roussanne:
“Acquiesce 2020 Lodi Roussanne: Lodi, long celebrated for its husky and brash red wines, nowadays is showing that it has the climate, soils and gutsy vintners to turn out white wines of alluring nuance and zest, including the Tiptons of Acquiesce, who with imagination and flair are raising Lodi’s profile for astute whites based on traditional Rhone Valley varieties, including this golden and elegant representative of Roussanne.”

And our Best of Class Picpoul Blanc:
“Acquiesce 2020 Lodi Picpoul Blanc: In France, Picpoul Blanc is so celebrated for the piercing acidity it brings to blended white wines it fondly is referred to as “lip stinger.” That ardent acidity is evident in the Acquiesce, helping offset the richness of its swelling suggestions of lemon creme brulee, honeycomb and lime. Bring on the mussels, oysters and clams.”

This is one of my favorite wineries to go to. Other places I love can be found at https://travelsandescapes.net/2020/10/19/freixenet-spanish-cava/
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Safari Park News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Public Relations
619-685-3291
WEBSITE: sdzwa.org
PRESS ROOM:
sdzwa.org/pr/orangutanbirth2022

NEWS RELEASE

San Diego Zoo Celebrates the Birth of a
Critically Endangered Sumatran Orangutan Infant
SAN DIEGO (Jan. 18, 2022) – A new year brings new beginnings—and that is
especially true for Indah, a 35-year-old female Sumatran orangutan at the San Diego
Zoo, who gave birth to her third infant earlier this month. The healthy 2-week-old male
was born on January 4, and has been named Kaja, after an island in Kalimantan, the
Indonesian part of Borneo, that houses rehabilitated orangutans prior to release in the
wild. He is the first orangutan born at the Zoo in more than seven years, when Indah
gave birth to her daughter Aisha back in 2014.
“To witness the birth of such a majestic critically endangered animal is a remarkable
experience and brings us hope for the future,” said Erika Kohler, interim executive
director of the San Diego Zoo. “His birth increases the population by one and that is a
necessary step in our ongoing efforts to gain a deeper understanding of orangutans so
we can conserve the species where they live.”
Although the infant orangutan was deemed healthy, Indah experienced some
complications following the birth. Zoo team members reached out to community-based
experts for help, including neonatal anesthesiologists and OB-GYN specialists. Indah is
recovering, and will be on habitat intermittently. Both her and the infant are being
monitored closely by wildlife health and wildlife care specialists.
“It was extremely rewarding to see the understanding and collaboration put forth
by our talented team and community consultants to provide the necessary care for

Indah and her infant,” said Meg Sutherland-Smith, director of veterinary services at San
Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “We will continue to stay vigilant; and at the same time,
remain hopeful.”
Sumatran and Bornean orangutans are listed as Critically Endangered on the
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.
The decline in their population is due to illegal wildlife trafficking and habitat loss from
rampant deforestation, which forces them into closer contact with people.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance works to save the species by collaborating with
innovative partners. Along with organizations such as SINTAS Indonesia and the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, conservationists work to prevent wildlife trafficking and
encourage the public to help reduce the demand for wildlife products, while advocating
for laws and other measures that protect wildlife.
About San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader,
committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives.
The Alliance empowers people from around the globe to support their mission to
conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
supports cutting-edge conservation and brings the stories of their work back to the San
Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park—giving millions of guests, in person and
virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The work of San Diego
Zoo Wildlife Alliance extends from San Diego to strategic and regional conservation
“hubs” across the globe, where their strengths—via their “Conservation Toolbox,”
including the renowned Wildlife Biodiversity Bank—are able to effectively align with
hundreds of regional partners to improve outcomes for wildlife in more coordinated
efforts. By leveraging these tools in wildlife care and conservation science, and through
collaboration with hundreds of partners, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has
reintroduced more than 44 endangered species to native habitats. Each year, San
Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s work reaches over 1 billion people in 150 countries via
news media, social media, their websites, educational

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Oakland, California

PRESS:            For Immediate Release January 18, 2022 

CONTACT:      Renée Roberts 415-407-7424 | renee@visitoakland.com 

WHAT’S NEW IN OAKLAND 2022: THE FIRST EDITION 

The first few months of the new year are filled with exciting new things to celebrate and experience in Oakland.  With hotel openings, an iconic destination’s 100 year anniversary,  restaurants popping up and cooking up tasty bites, flamenco dancing, powerful exhibits and family friendly fun – 2022 is off to a great start in Oakland.  Check out the new reasons to come to Oakland and plan your visit now! 

HOTEL OPENINGS 

Kissel Uptown Oakland 

In February 2022, Kissel Uptown Oakland will open in the core of the city’s vibrant Uptown district, at the center of an eclectic arts and entertainment scene. As part of the Unbound Collection By Hyatt, the newly renovated hotel embraces the neighborhood’s history and spirit with grand Beaux Arts architecture – towering columns, locally commissioned artworks, bold décor, and plentiful natural light. Dining options include Otto’s – an expansive lobby bar and cafe which offers craveable food and drinks all day long, and High 5ive – a lively rooftop bar and lounge with panoramic terrace, drinks and snacks. Guests are steps away from the diverse restaurants, bars, galleries and venues such as the Fox Theater and The Hive that make Uptown Oakland such a cultural hub. kisseloakland.com | hyatt.com  | 2455 Broadway 

AC Marriott Oakland Residence Inn 

The 189-foot AC Marriott Oakland Residence Inn will be one of the taller buildings in the city of Oakland. With 283 hotel rooms total, the hotel offers two experiences in one hotel. 165 rooms within levels three and eleven will be managed by the Marriott Residence Inn, ranging from studios to one bedroom suites. AC Hotel will manage the remaining 111 guest rooms across the upper floors. Opening Spring 2022. marriott.com | 1431 Jefferson Street 

ARTS & CULTURE 

OMCA (Oakland Museum of California) 

Edith Heath: A Life in Clay, comes to OMCA and will be on view January 29, 2022 – October 30, 2022. Discover the story of Edith Heath, founder and designer of Heath Ceramics who transformed the ceramics industry, creating dinnerware from California clay for “Sunday best” and everyday use. Driven by the power of good design, and a commitment to her craft, Heath’s vision continues to live on through her stoneware and tile over 70 years later.  museumca.org | 1000 Oak Street 

ICONIC ATTRACTIONS 

Children’s Fairyland 

Children’s Fairyland launches their Magic Tree Flora and Fauna program in the park on April 1, 2022. Fairyland’s Magic Tree program is designed for young naturalists with Flora and Fauna – an in-park activity for school field trips.  fairyland.org | 699 Bellevue Avenue 

Oakland Zoo Centennial  

It’s the 100 Year Anniversary of the beloved Oakland Zoo! Officially founded on June 6, 1922, the Oakland Zoo will celebrate this momentous occasion all year long with Community Clean Up Days, Cocktails & Conservation Programs, Earth Day Events, Brunch for the Wild Bunch and one great party at Lake Merritt on June 5, 2022. oaklandzoo.com | 977 Golf Links Road 

EVENT SPACE 

The Bridge Yard 

Once a maintenance facility for the Bay Area’s ubiquitous street cars, the Bridge Yard is Oakland’s newest event space. The award-winning restoration of this historic building features panoramic waterfront views of Oakland and San Francisco, an iconic light-filled indoor space, and an outdoor courtyard with a stage, seating and elevated viewing deck. The Bridge Yard is a central feature of the Judge John Sutter Regional Shoreline Park, the gateway to Oakland, and sits along the path of The Bay Bridge Trail. thebridgeyard.com | 210 Burma Road 

RESTAURANT OPENINGS 

Calabash 

A project by Nigel Jones that brings together his Jamaican cuisine with food from Malaysia and northern Iran that he refers to as “a gourmet Whole Foods with a full bar, outdoor dining and lots of grab-and-go items”.  Opening April 2022, date TBD.  2302 Valdez Street. 

Joodooboo 

A modern Korean deli from co-chef Steve Joo of pop-up Nokni.  The restaurant will focus on house made specialties like tofu, seasonal banchan made with farm fresh ingredients, and simple daily meals to accompany the banchan.  Open for business.  Joodooboo.com | 4201 Market Street. 

Kowbird 

Matt Horn of Horn Barbecue is opening this soul infused chicken joint with a killer buttermilk fried chicken sandwich – both traditional and sweet and spicy. Kowbird will be known for inventive sauces, Southern inspired sides and desserts.  Open for business. 1733 Peralta Street. 

Noka Ramen 

Farmhouse Kitchen Thai and sister restaurant Son & Garden have become known in the Bay Area for their over-the-top dishes. The owner’s latest project, a ramen shop in Oakland, will be no different. They will serve bowls of rainbow colored noodles that get their bright colors from natural ingredients like butterfly pea flower and dragonfruit. The rainforest themed dining room will feature artificial plants and flowers to complete the tropical décor. Opening in winter 2022, date TBD. Farmhouseramen.com | 90 Franklin Street in Jack London Square.

Occitania 

Highly acclaimed chef Paul Canales, the chef/owner of Duende (Oakland, CA) and the former long time executive chef of Oliveto (Oakland, CA), is behind the new French inspired Occitania, opening in the heart of Oakland’s Uptown Arts District. Inspired by the region of the Occitan linguistic region of Southern France which spans from the alpine region of Italy’s Piemonte, all the way to Spanish Catalonia – the menu blends traditional technique with a modern approach, adapting ancient recipes to showcase local, sustainable ingredients. Rafe Gabel, Italian Wine Specialist and California Appellation Wine Specialist, will oversee operations and the beverage program. Opening spring 2022, date TBD. 2401 Broadway. 

Roux40 

Christina “Lala” Harrison of JusLaEats will serve Black American dishes with a farm-to-table twist at this all-Black, all-female-run restaurant in the Temescal District.  Opening spring 2022, date TBD. 375 40th Street. 

RESTAURANT HAPPENINGS 

Duende: Flamenco and a Spanish Feast  

Flameno returns to Duende! A true celebration of Spain, with a prix fixe meal featuring classic Duende dishes and world class, live dance and music from Theatre Flamenco of SF twice monthly. The evenings begin with dinner featuring Spanish classics including ensalada de col (a cabbage salad, and a Duende favorite), patatas bravas, paella, turron and a pitcher of sangria to share. As dessert is served, an hour long performance of Flamenco begins, transporting guests to southern Spain. A premium menu upgrade is available featuring the addition of cava, a selection of pintxo and a choice of daily desserts from their in-house pastry chef.  For show dates and pricing visit duendeoakland.com/flamenco. 468 19th Street. 

Tribune 

Tribune starts the new year with a new lineup of events including “Wine ‘Not’ Wednesday” with half price bottles of wine.  Happy hour returns Wednesday through Friday from 5:00pm to 6:30pm and Live Jazz happens on Sundays from 7:00pm to 9:30pm. A new American Brasserie from partners Omri Aflalo and Darrin Ballon, Tribune is located in the iconic Tribune building on 13th and Franklin Streets. It’s a place to gather with friends, enjoy brasserie favorites, exceptional cocktails, and warm hospitality. 401 13th Street. 

About Visit Oakland 

Visit Oakland is a non-profit organization marketing Oakland, California as a travel destination. Visit Oakland offers a wide variety of complimentary services and materials for travelers interested in visiting Oakland. For more information, check out www.visitoakland.com. Want to share the Oakland love with the world? Follow @visitoakland on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.  #visitoakland #oaklandloveit   

# # # 

Renée Roberts  | Public Relations & Communications

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Are You Ready to Fly Again?

As 2022 begins, are you ready to fly again? If so, here are some must-do things you should know before you go through TSA screening.

You are all packed, have arrived at the airport with plenty of time, standing in the TSA line, and ready to fly again. What do you have in your pockets?

You have taken out your loose change and your phone. You are good to go. Right? Just as you walk through the scanner, it beeps. What? You forgot about the keys you were going to put in your carry-on bag.

To be sure you are ready to fly, empty your pockets. Take everything out and place it either in a bin or in  your carry-on bag.

If  you do not have pockets,  great. Just remember to take off your belt.

Another item you will need to pay attention to is your laptop. If you are not TSA PreCheck, you will need to remove it from its case. Likewise, if you are not TSA PreCheck you will need to remove  your shoes and place all liquids in the bin.

Before you get ready to fly again, it would be a good idea to look into TSA PreCheck. If you fly often, the $85 cost for five years is absolutely worth it.

Did you know there are some items banned from bringing on airplanes? I am not sure why you would think you could bring fireworks…but you cannot. You also cannot bring a gun into the cabin. You may check it, with the appropriate paperwork obtained beforehand.

If you are ready to fly again and want to bring your favorite large bottle of hair conditioner, you cannot. You can place it in your checked luggage. All liquids in your carry-on bag must adhere to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. This means liquids, gels, and aerosols can only be in containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less. These then need to be placed in a single quart-size resealable bag.

TSA has a website which details items in case you have questions. When you get ready to fly again and do not know what is permitted, check out https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips

Finally, before you get ready to fly again…do not forget your ID. It seems like a simple thing to remember. Last month we were standing in line in TSA PreCheck.

The man in front of us could not find his ID. After a couple of minutes, he was escorted by a TSA agent to another area. I am not sure what happened or where he was taken.  We were only delayed by a short time. I am sure he was delayed a lot longer.

For more tips on flying check out https://travelsandescapes.net/2021/12/16/couples-trip-on-a-budget/

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Travel to France

Some of the latest requirements if you plan on traveling to France from t he United States. These were compiled from the State Department, posts from The Points Guy, and information from the French travel sites.

There have been many updates and changing protocols surrounding COVID-19 for visiting France. Here are some of the most recent that took place January 3, 2022.

Fully vaccinated travelers from the US who are 18 and older may enter France by showing proof of vaccination, results of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within 48 hours prior to departure for France and a sworn statement attesting they do not have any symptoms of COVID-19 nor have had any contact with any confirmed cases  of COVID-19.

Currently, France recognizes vaccines approved by the World Health Organization and European Medicines Agency. These are Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Johnson & Johnson. Those who have received a full dose of a WHO licensed vaccine not approved by the  EMA require an additional single dose of an EMA approved mRNA vaccine, either Pfizer or Moderna.

Travelers are considered fully vaccinated 28 days after receiving one dose o f a single-does vaccine, seven days after days after receiving a two-dose vaccine or seven days after receiving an additional dose of an EMA-approved  mRNA vaccine for those who received a WHO-licensed vaccine not approved by the EMA.

Per the U.S. Embassy in France, the  card issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is considered “sufficient proof of vaccination for entry.”

Entry requirements for unvaccinated travelers may only enter France if they possess a compelling reason for travel,  including students and those transiting France for less than 24 hours.

Unvaccinated Americans approved for entry must show a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) performed within 48 hours before departure and are also subject to a second test upon arrival. They must quarantine for 10 days, followed by an additional test.

Testing, vaccination and booster requirements apply to travelers who are 12 and older, and American visitors must show results of a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 48 hours to enter the country.

“Travelers under age 11 are treated as vaccinated regardless of their vaccination status and do not need to have a COVID test. Travelers ages 11 through 17 are treated as vaccinated if they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent or guardian,” says the embassy. “Travelers in this age group traveling independently must meet the rules applicable to adult travelers.”

A French health pass is required to access most indoor public spaces, including restaurants/bars, museums, entertainment venues and sporting facilities. It’s also necessary for long-distance travel throughout the country on public transit. A health pass can be obtained for $40 by showing proof of vaccination at a local French pharmacy on a walk-in basis. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers can obtain a temporary 24-hour pass by taking a rapid antigen test at a pharmacy. Temporary pass holders will need to procure a new pass after the 24-hour period.

The French government previously announced they expect use of the “pass sanitaire” to continue through at least July.

As of Jan. 15, all travelers to France age 18 and older must show proof of a COVID-19 booster shot taken within five to seven months after their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in order to retain an active health pass. Prior to this date, the booster is only required for those 65 and older.

Face masks remain mandatory for all those in indoor public spaces throughout the country and are required outdoors in Paris as of Dec. 31, 2021, including in markets. Outdoor mask requirements vary throughout France, so consult local authorities before visiting your destination.

For more travel information on France and to see how the rules are evolving check out https://travelsandescapes.net/?s=france

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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating tram car.

Recently, we rode this amazing vehicle through the sheer rock cliffs of Chino Canyon to the top of the wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park.

First some facts and history… It all started in 1935 when a young electrical engineer, Francis Crocker, decided he wanted to get to the top of Mount San Jacinto. This 10,834 foot peak still had snow during a heat wave on the valley floor.

Many issues, delays, and WWII postponed his plans until a new tram bill was passed in 1945, creating the Mount San Jacinto Winter Park Authority. By 1950 private funds had been raised by selling bonds, land had been acquired for the Valley Station, and technicians had designed the tramway. Not one cent of public money was used for the construction or the operation.

Construction was a challenge for the engineers. The first tower is the only one that can be reached by road. Helicopters were used to erect four of the five supporting towers. They flew 23,000 missions during 26 months of construction. Men and materials needed to erect the other four towers and the Mountain Station at the top all came by helicopter.

At the top of each tower is a 16’ x 16’ yellow helicopter pad. This allows access to the towers in times of maintenance for the Tram. Tower one is the tallest of the five supporting towers. It is 227 feet and is the only one accessible by road.

Completed in 1963, the challenges in building earned the label the Eighth Wonder of the World. Twenty-five years later the Tramway was designated an historical civil engineering landmark.

In 1998, the Tramway started an ambitious project that would modernize the old tram cars and update the facilities. In September 2000 the world’s largest rotating tramcars made their debut.

Since 1963 over 20 million people have traveled the 10-minute, 2.5-mile ride. Beginning at the Valley Station elevation of 2,642 the ride ends at the Mountain Station elevation of 8,516 feet.

In 1965, I rode the old Tramway car to the top. It swayed slightly as we passed by the breathtaking rock sides and dipped at each tower. It was exciting, exhilarating, and a little frightening. The valley floor was about 100 degrees and the top was over 60 degrees colder. We didn’t stay long at the top.

Two weeks ago, I rode the new Tramway rotating car to the top. Once again, it’s mind-blowing to see how close the Tram car comes to the sheer rock cliffs. Rotating slowly gave us great views of those cliffs, the San Jacinto Mountains, the valley floor far below, and the enormity of the towers.

There was no noticeable swaying, until we passed one of the towers. Then, it was slight. Not at all like I remembered from 1965. This ride was smooth.

With windows open along the top of the Tram car, the breeze coming in dropped significantly as we rose toward the top. Sweaters or jackets were definitely needed, especially on the side of the mountain facing the valley floor. Winds whipped around, making it seem colder than the 43 degree day at the top.

We spent some time wandering a few trails, exploring the observation decks and the natural history museum, and just marveling at how on earth Francis Crocker even thought of this idea.

Comparing my two visits, there were some things I enjoyed about the first Tram. It was a new venture, it was exciting, and I had never done anything like it. Having said that, there are more things I liked about this Tram. I appreciated it more, especially the difficulty in constructing it, and spent more time marveling at how an idea like this even took shape.

If you are in the area, The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is an activity well worth your time.

Note: Tickets can be difficult to purchase during busy times of the year. Check the website https://pstramway.com/tickets/.

If You Go: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is located at 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA.

For more trip ideas and travel plans check out https://travelsandescapes.net/