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Estes Park Aerial Tramway: A Ride to Remember

Experience breathtaking 360° views of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park from 8,708 feet via a scenic aerial tram ride.

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Ascend Prospect Mountain via the Estes Park Aerial Tramway for panoramic views of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. This family-owned attraction, operating since 1955, offers a smooth, cable car ride to the summit, where you can explore trails, a gift shop, and a coffee shop.

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Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to reserve a specific time and ensure a smoother experience.
  • Bring peanuts to feed the chipmunks at the summit; they may even eat right out of your hand.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Estes Park, the tramway is located a short walk south on Riverside Drive. Follow the road along the Big Thompson River; the lower terminal will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    The Town of Estes Park operates free seasonal shuttle routes around town. Check the local shuttle schedules for the most convenient route and stop closest to the Aerial Tramway on Riverside Drive. From the shuttle stop, it is a short walk to the lower terminal.

  • Driving

    From Highway 36, turn onto Riverside Drive and follow it south. The tramway is located at 420 East Riverside Drive. Onsite parking is available for $6.95 for 4 hours, but spaces are limited and can fill up quickly. Consider arriving early or using alternative transportation during peak season.

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Discover more about Estes Park Aerial Tramway Top Terminal

The Estes Park Aerial Tramway provides a unique and breathtaking journey to the summit of Prospect Mountain. Since opening in 1955, this family-owned tramway has safely carried millions of visitors to an elevation of 8,700 feet, offering stunning views of Estes Park, the Continental Divide, and Longs Peak. The tramway was designed and built by Robert Heron, who gained experience constructing alpine trams for the 10th Mountain Division during World War II. Inspired by European tramway designs, Heron created a "free span" aerial tramway, a design that is uncommon in the United States, where the cable cars travel across a single span of wires between the top and bottom stations without the need for support towers. This design provides a smooth and scenic five-minute ride to the top. At the summit, visitors can explore family-friendly trails, enjoy refreshments at the Hungry Chipmunk Cafe, and browse souvenirs at the gift shop. The observation deck offers unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a perfect spot for photography and soaking in the natural beauty. Keep an eye out for the friendly chipmunks that call Prospect Mountain home; peanuts are available for purchase, and the chipmunks may even eat right out of your hand.

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