Palisades Tahoe is currently in a major overhaul of its iconic Aerial Tram ahead of the 2026-27 ski season, replacing critical cables and hardware on one of California’s most recognizable ski lifts.
The Lake Tahoe resort closed the tram earlier than usual on September 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 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.
Replacing Critical Components on the Aerial Tram
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 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.
In its September overview of improvements for the 2026-27 season, Palisades Tahoe confirmed that crews were installing new hanger arms and working with Garaventa specialists on the rope replacement.
The resort has also published a dedicated Aerial Tram maintenance update documenting the project.
Major Lift Maintenance Across Palisades Tahoe
The Aerial Tram is just one part of a much larger lift maintenance effort taking place across the resort.
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.
The work comes as Palisades Tahoe prepares for its scheduled November 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.
