Wyler Aerial Tramway

Wyler Aerial Tramway will take you on a scenic ride high above (5,632 feet ) El Paso and give you an aerial view of three states (Texas, New Mexico and Chihuahua, Mexico). The tramway’s gondola ride climbs 940 feet and lasts about 4.5 minutes, and the view is truly incredible. It lets you see El Paso’s beauty and vastness through its diverse topography from lush green valley to arid desert and tall mountains. You can embark from the gondola at the top of the mountain where you’ll find an observation desk, gift shop, exhibit panels, and some accessible paths down and around the mountain if you are so inclined for a little stroll. Tickets: $8 12 and older; $4 under 12. A parking lot is available for visitors on the east side of the mountain at the top of McKinley.

The hiking trail that starts at the base of the tramway station and circles Ranger Peak offers hikers some of the toughest and most rewarding hiking in the area. Snaking around the eastern side of the mountain, the Directissimo Trail climbs steeply. However, benches are placed at various points along the way and the climb up has gorgeous scenes of the surrounding landscape. Hikers who don’t want to miss the gondola ride up (or don’t have the inclination to ascend the trail) have the option of starting from the observation deck atop Ranger Peak and hiking down Directissimo. For those who would like to continue on their journey, Thousand Steps trail begins at the summit of Ranger Peak and descends down the western side of the mountain, ending at Stanton Street. This trail runs a total of 2.6 miles from the tramway station base to its termination at Stanton Street.

Activities: Picnicking (at observation deck), hiking and birding

Hours: Fri–Sat: 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

Sun: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Closed Mon–Thurs. Park is also closed during inclement weather conditions (high winds, electrical storms, etc.)

Fee (for gondola): $8 for persons 13 and over, $4 for persons 12 and under

Visit Wyler Aerial Tramway’s Website