Snow in Palm Springs?
Not quite, but they are getting ready for the first blizzard at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway that was opening Saturday morning for the first time in three weeks.
The tram, two-and-a-half miles above the desert floor, was shut for scheduled maintenance. While forecasters said it would be 98 degrees in Palm Springs, the top of the Tram was expected to hit only 51.
As the difference in temperature is often 30 deegrees or more, snow is expected sometime this fall on the mountain while vacationers from Los Angeles and around the world bask in the mild, warm sun poolside in Palm Springs and other desert cities.
So Tram officials Saturday started the Snow Guessing Contest to see who can predict the first day of snow at the top of the Tram.
People who accurately predict the date of the first measurable inch of snow at the Tram’s Mountain Station will win four Tram admissions plus a “special Tram gift memento.” The first 10 entries with the correct date will qualify for the prizes. Participants may enter as many times as they want, but may only submit one date per postcard, which can be mailed to:
Snow Guessing Contest
1 Tram Way
Palm Springs, CA, 92262
The three-week closure of the Tram allowed workers to complete the replacement of bearings on numerous tram systems, shortening of a haul rope and comprehensive mechanical testing, according to tramway officials.
“We are now ready and excited to begin our 53rd season,” said Nancy Nichols, Tramway vice president of sales and marketing.
–Staff and wire reports