Mountain gondolas aren’t just for skiers — many of them run all year, offering incredible views of the peaks, valleys, and forests below. Across the U.S., these gondola rides give visitors a chance to float above alpine landscapes, watch wildlife from above, or simply enjoy the scenery without the hike.
Whether you’re in the Rockies, the Sierras, or the Appalachians, these 12 gondola rides keep the mountains accessible in every season.
Jackson Hole Aerial Tram — Wyoming
With a panoramic view that stretches beyond the horizon, the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram is a photographer’s dream.
Towering peaks and the vast valley below provide a stunning backdrop for adventurers and sightseers alike. Even in the chill of winter, the tram offers a cozy, enclosed retreat as it ascends to Rendezvous Peak.
Aspen Silver Queen Gondola — Colorado
A ride on the Aspen Silver Queen Gondola is nothing short of regal. It gracefully transports visitors up Aspen Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
The summer landscape bursts with color, making it a photographer’s paradise. Winter or summer, this gondola is truly a jewel of the Rockies.
Telluride Gondola — Colorado
Telluride Gondola connects two charming towns with a ride that feels like stepping into a painting. The brilliant fall foliage transforms the landscape into a palette of ambers and crimsons.
Every season offers a new perspective, but autumn is particularly enchanting with the leaves putting on a vibrant show.
Breckenridge Gondola — Colorado
Breckenridge Gondola offers a smooth, scenic journey over the historic mining town below. As the gondola rises, passengers are treated to expansive views of the Tenmile Range.
Snow-draped peaks in winter provide a serene atmosphere that is both exhilarating and calming.
Snowbird Aerial Tram — Utah
Snowbird Aerial Tram soars over rugged terrain, where the beauty of nature meets the thrill of adventure. Springtime here is a delightful blend of lingering snow and emerging greenery.
The tram’s ascent is a journey through seasons, offering sights that captivate both heart and soul.
Heavenly Gondola — Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Offering a divine view of Lake Tahoe, the Heavenly Gondola lives up to its name. The journey presents a mesmerizing vista of the lake’s azure waters against rugged mountains.
Whether catching a sunset or enjoying a clear day, the views are simply unforgettable.
Squaw Valley Aerial Tram (Palisades Tahoe) — California
Squaw Valley Aerial Tram offers an exhilarating ride above dramatic cliffs and snowy expanses. This journey is as much about the experience as it is about the views.
It’s a favorite among thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, providing a unique glimpse into California’s rugged beauty.
Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola — California
Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola lifts you into a world where adventure awaits. The summer landscapes offer a stunning contrast to the snow-laden views of winter.
At the summit, the panoramic views are a testament to the sheer beauty of California’s diverse terrain.
Mt. Rainier Gondola (Crystal Mountain) — Washington
A ride on the Mt. Rainier Gondola offers unparalleled views of one of the nation’s most iconic peaks. The snowy vistas are a sight to behold, especially when the skies are clear.
Crystal Mountain provides a tranquil escape with breathtaking scenery at every turn.
Alyeska Aerial Tramway — Alaska
In the heart of Alaska, Alyeska Aerial Tramway offers a breathtaking ascent over snow-blanketed landscapes.
The rugged peaks stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s an experience that captures the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, offering a perspective like no other.
Sandia Peak Tramway — New Mexico
Ascending the Sandia Peak Tramway is like reaching for the sky. The desert landscape unfolds beneath, painted in hues of orange and pink as the sun sets. It’s a journey that highlights the unique beauty of New Mexico, where every ride offers a new perspective.
Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway — New Hampshire
Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway provides a captivating ascent over wintry landscapes. The snow-laden peaks offer a serene, almost magical view.
It’s a ride that brings the beauty of New Hampshire’s winter wonderland to life, offering a peaceful retreat from the ordinary.