Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
420 East Riverside Drive, Estes Park, Colorado 80517
Hours & Cost
Open seasonally from May through November. The first tram departs at 9 a.m. Reservations are required and can be made online in advance or with the ticket attendant on-site.
A sample of current pricing (subject to change. Check the website before you go):
Adults: $35–$43 (pricing varies by day; check the color-coded calendar)
Children (6–17): $26.95
Children under 5: Free
Early bird and night owl discounts available
About
The Estes Park Aerial Tramway has been running since 1955, when engineer Robert Heron built the first tramway in the U.S. designed purely for sightseeing. Heron's interest in tramways started during World War II, where he worked on portable military systems. After the war, he traveled to Europe to study gondola design, which led to the free-span system he used here: no support towers, a smooth ride, and nothing blocking the view.
Construction started in April 1955 with a $150,000 investment. The cherry-red gondola cars each hold up to 10 passengers plus the attendant. The ride stretches 2,630 feet and climbs 1,060 feet in elevation, with views of Rocky Mountain National Park, the Continental Divide, and the Estes Valley opening up as you ascend.
More than three million people have ridden the tramway since it opened. The Heron family ran it for over six decades. In 2024, Gondola Ventures partnered with the family to update the operation while keeping its historic character intact. Remarkably, the original 1955 cables are still in use today.
At the summit of Prospect Mountain, you'll find short hiking trails, a picnic area, a gift shop, and the Hungry Chipmunk Cafe. In the late afternoon, the Tram Haus serves cold beer and wine during Happy Hour. The tramway can also be rented for private events: weddings, corporate gatherings, or milestone celebrations.
Local Tips
It's cooler at the summit, so bring a jacket or dress in layers.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top while the views are out.
There are no seats in the tram, but the ride takes about five minutes.
Consider a season pass if you plan to ride more than once.
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Casago Estes Park