Palisades Tahoe is currently in a major overhaul of its Aerial Tram ahead of the 2026-27 ski season, replacing critical cables and hardware on one of California’s most recognizable ski lifts.
Palisades Tahoe closed the tram earlier than usual on Sept. 8 to accommodate an extensive maintenance project that includes replacing the haul ropes, overhauling the carriage assemblies, and installing new hanger arms above both passenger cabins.
The work comes as Palisades Tahoe prepares for its scheduled Nov. 25 opening day, weather and conditions permitting.
The resort has not confirmed a specific reopening date for the Aerial Tram. Visitors can monitor the official lift operations page for updates as winter approaches.
The Aerial Tram carries guests from the base of Palisades Tahoe to High Camp, situated approximately 8,200 feet above sea level. The roughly 10-minute ride provides access to upper-mountain skiing and snowboarding during winter, along with sightseeing and recreational activities during summer.
The tram work is being carried out with assistance from Garaventa, the tram’s manufacturer. The project is part of the resort’s ongoing effort to maintain its lift infrastructure and prepare for the upcoming winter.
The current maintenance project involves several of the tram’s most important mechanical components. The haul ropes are responsible for pulling the cabins along the lift system, while the hanger arms and carriage assemblies connect the passenger cabins to the machinery that carries them along the route.
Palisades Tahoe’s approximately 80-person lift maintenance team has also been working on the Funitel, KT-22 and Base to Base Gondola. Projects include replacing the KT-22 haul rope, rebuilding major Funitel components and conducting inspections throughout the resort’s extensive lift network.
Beginner Progression Pass: Palisades Tahoe is making it easier for first-time skiers and snowboarders to turn their first day on snow into an entire season on the mountain.
The new program combines three professionally guided group lessons, lift access, rental equipment and additional benefits, culminating in a complimentary unrestricted Palisades Tahoe season pass after participants complete all three lessons.
Learning to ski or snowboard comes with a unique set of barriers. New participants need equipment, access to the mountain and the technical skills to navigate the sport safely and confidently. The Beginner Progression Pass brings those pieces together into one program designed specifically for first-time skiers and riders ages 13 and older. Cost is $799.
“Learning to ski or snowboard can feel intimidating when you’re starting from scratch. The Beginner Progression Pass is designed to make those first steps as simple and approachable as possible,” said El Furtney, Director of Mountain Sports School for Palisades Tahoe.
Each Beginner Progression Pass includes:
- Three group ski or snowboard lessons
- Lift access for all three lesson days
- Rental equipment for all three lesson days
- Complimentary pair of goggles
- Retail discount
- Complimentary unrestricted Palisades Tahoe season pass for the remainder of the 2026/27 season after completing all three lessons
- An Ikon Pass discount for the following season after graduation
