Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Soar above Estes Park on a historic aerial tramway for stunning mountain vistas and a memorable summit experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soar above Estes Park on a historic aerial tramway for stunning mountain vistas and a memorable summit experience.
"The tram was hands down a highlight of our trip. Yes, pricey, but such a wonderful experience."
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Consider booking online to secure your spot and potentially get early bird discounts.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the trails at the summit and enjoying the views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Views
Summit of Prospect Mountain
Soar above Estes Park for breathtaking 360° vistas of the town and surrounding Rocky Mountains.
The Tram Ride Itself
Ascending Prospect Mountain
A quick, five-minute journey offering spectacular, ever-expanding views as you gain elevation.
Chipmunk Encounters
Summit area
Friendly chipmunks often visit the summit, providing entertaining moments for all ages.
Prospect Mountain Trails
Summit area
Explore short, well-marked trails for a closer look at the alpine scenery and potential wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Consider booking online to secure your spot and potentially get early bird discounts.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the trails at the summit and enjoying the views.
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Water
The sun is strong at higher elevations, even on cooler days.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are a photographer's dream, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Consider booking online to secure your spot and potentially get early bird discounts.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the trails at the summit and enjoying the views.
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Water
The sun is strong at higher elevations, even on cooler days.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are a photographer's dream, especially during sunrise or sunset.
🐿️ Chipmunk Snacks
Bring small, unsalted nuts to feed the friendly chipmunks at the top (check local guidelines first!).
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be limited; arrive early or consider off-peak times. Parking fees apply.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Estes Park Aerial Tramway for its breathtaking panoramic views and enjoyable ride. The friendly staff and the entertaining chipmunks at the summit are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. While some find it a bit pricey, most agree the experience is a worthwhile highlight of a trip to Estes Park.
"The tram was hands down a highlight of our trip. Yes, pricey, but such a wonderful experience. We visited on a Friday at 9am and there was only one other group in line. We waited no longer than 15 minutes to go on the tram. Also, if you go early in the morning or late evening, you can take advantage of the discounted adult tickets. All of the staff members we encountered were very nice. One of the tram operators was especially kind to our kids after noticing they were a bit frightened. He made sure to make them feel safe, and we were very thankful for that.
At the top, the view was incredible. There were a few trails, but we just decided to climb up the rocks and sit there to take in the view. The gift shop and cafe were right where the tram leaves you. There are not many options, but it's good for a quick snack."
Maria Bernal
"The tram was quick and efficient. Only takes 5 minutes to make it to the top. Can’t beat the view, but the food is good too. I had the hiker’s burrito. The salsa was so good. They serve breakfast until noon. The friendly employees really make it great. They have a good selection of treats and drinks too. The views from the top are amazing! Nice to be able to hike too."
Elana Levens-Craig
"Hello Everyone,
Now going up to the Tramway was amazing. I have been going to Estes Park for such a long time. I did not realize that this was in that location.
Such beautiful site to see make sure you take a backpack, snacks, sunscreen, water, and enjoy the view. They have picnic tables and a gift shop and serve sandwich, snacks, and sweets. now you do have to pay for parking, which is $6.50 for four hours. But you can stay at this location and ride the last cart down. 3.25 time ride going up
T 3h"
Big Blue
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Estes Park Aerial Tramway is located at 1100 Tunnel Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517. It's easily accessible by car and is a short drive from downtown Estes Park. Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the base of the tram. However, it is relatively small and can fill up quickly. Some visitors recommend arriving early or during off-peak hours to secure a spot. A parking fee of $6.50 for four hours is mentioned by one visitor.
While specific public transport routes directly to the tram are not widely advertised, Estes Park does have a free seasonal shuttle service that may connect to areas near the tram. It's best to check the local Estes Park transit website for current routes and schedules.
The address for the Estes Park Aerial Tramway is 1100 Tunnel Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517.
The tram itself is generally accessible, and the base area is paved. However, the trails at the summit can be rocky and uneven, so visitors with significant mobility challenges may want to stick to the immediate area around the tram terminal at the top.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and some sources mention discounted adult tickets for early morning or late evening rides. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing and any available deals.
Yes, booking tickets in advance online is recommended and often possible through the official estestram.com website. This can help secure your spot and potentially offer early bird discounts.
The tram typically operates daily from 9 AM to 7 PM during its season, which usually starts in May. However, hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Some visitors have noted that early bird or late afternoon rides may offer discounted adult tickets. Checking the official website for seasonal promotions or off-peak deals is a good strategy.
One Reddit user expressed concern about this, asking if a refund is issued for pre-paid parking if the lot is full upon arrival. It's advisable to contact the tram directly to clarify their policy on parking reservations and refunds.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, explore short hiking trails, visit the Hungry Chipmunk Cafe for snacks and drinks, and interact with friendly chipmunks.
The tram ride itself is quite quick, typically taking about five minutes to ascend to the top of Prospect Mountain. +1
Yes, there are well-marked trails at the summit, including a popular 3/4 mile trail to the West Summit. The total round trip hike is about a mile and a half, with moderate elevation gain.
Absolutely! The aerial tramway offers incredible views of Estes Park and the surrounding peaks, including glimpses of Rocky Mountain National Park. 
While it's an aerial tramway, many visitors, including those with a fear of heights, found the ride smooth and not overly frightening. The enclosed cabins and gradual ascent contribute to a comfortable experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe at the top called the Hungry Chipmunk Cafe, offering snacks, drinks, and breakfast until noon. They also serve sandwiches.
The cafe offers a selection of treats, drinks, and breakfast items like burritos. One reviewer specifically praised their salsa.
Yes, there are picnic tables available at the top, and visitors are encouraged to bring their own snacks and water.
While the primary dining is at the summit, the Tram Haus at the top also offers food and drinks with outdoor seating.
While not explicitly stated as expensive, it's a captive audience at the summit, so prices might be typical for tourist attractions. It's good for a quick snack or meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. The golden hour before sunset can be particularly stunning.
Expect breathtaking panoramic shots of Estes Park, the surrounding mountains, and the valley below. You'll also get great close-ups of the tram cars and potentially wildlife like chipmunks. +1
The entire summit area offers fantastic viewpoints. The trails leading to the West Summit provide even more expansive and unobstructed photographic opportunities.
Yes, you can take photos from inside the tram car as you ascend and descend. The large windows offer clear views, though it can be a bit crowded at times.
For capturing the tram ride, try to get shots of the car against the mountain backdrop, or from inside looking out at the scenery. Videos are also very effective for conveying the experience. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water can also help reduce costs, as the cafe at the summit is a captive market. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Ride Through History
+1 This historic attraction has been a beloved part of the Estes Park landscape for decades, providing visitors with unique access to the mountain's summit.The tramway connects the base station to the summit of Prospect Mountain, offering a scenic journey that has delighted visitors for generations. The renovation aimed to enhance safety and comfort while maintaining the iconic nature of the ride. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of aerial transportation for accessing stunning natural vistas.
This historical context adds another layer of appreciation for the tramway, making it more than just a ride, but a piece of local heritage. It’s a connection to the past that continues to offer breathtaking views and memorable experiences for today's travelers.
Summit Exploration & Wildlife
For those who enjoy a bit of activity, several well-marked trails wind around the summit. The most popular is the trail to the West Summit, a moderate 3/4 mile hike (1.5 miles round trip) that offers even more spectacular vistas. These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating hike, allowing you to immerse yourself in the mountain environment.
A delightful surprise for many visitors, especially families, is the abundance of friendly chipmunks that inhabit the summit area. These small creatures are often eager to interact with visitors, providing entertaining moments. Some guests even bring small, unsalted nuts to feed them, though it's always wise to check local guidelines on feeding wildlife.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
Once at the summit, the panoramic vistas are truly breathtaking. The West Summit trail, in particular, offers unobstructed views that are ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes. Early morning and late afternoon light, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' can transform the scenery with warm, dramatic lighting, making these times particularly sought after by photographers.
Beyond the grand landscapes, don't forget to capture the smaller details. The charming chipmunks at the summit often make for delightful and engaging subjects. Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, the Estes Park Aerial Tramway provides a wealth of photographic subjects, from the iconic tram cars to the majestic mountain scenery and its playful inhabitants.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit