Palm Springs Aerial Tram Road Challenge

The Palm Springs Aerial Tram Road Challenge is one of the toughest short races in the desert: a 6K run or walk straight up Tram Way, climbing more than 1,900 feet in just 3.7 miles to the Tram’s Valley Station. 2026 is the 39th running.

Why go

• A real climb: The whole course goes uphill, which makes the finish feel earned.
• Run or walk: Walkers start at 6:30 a.m. and runners at 7 a.m.
• Big views: The road climbs above the valley floor as the sun comes up.

What to expect

Shuttles run from parking at Hwy 111 and Racquet Club to the start from 5 a.m., with race-day registration and packet pickup from 5:15 a.m. Shuttles back to parking start around 8:30 a.m., and awards are at 9 a.m. Packet pickup is also available the day before at REI Rancho Mirage, 3 to 7 p.m.

Know before you go

• Use the race shuttles: there is no parking at the start.
• Bring water and layers for the cool early start.
• Registration stays open through race morning.