Latest News
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reopens ahead of schedule after maintenance
By Coachella Valley Times | Oct 17, 2024
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is set to reopen on Friday, October 18, 2024, a day earlier than initially planned. The first tram will depart at 10:00 a.m., with the last tram ascending at 8:00 p.m. and descending at 9:30 p.m. Trams will run every half hour.
Living Desert backs Proposition 4 for environmental protection
By Coachella Valley Times | Oct 16, 2024
This November, Californians will have the chance to vote on Proposition 4, a proposed $10 billion bond package aimed at addressing issues related to safe drinking water, wildfire prevention, and climate risk protection for communities and natural lands.
Conservation efforts aim to protect endangered Sonoran pronghorn
By Coachella Valley Times | Oct 16, 2024
The Sonoran pronghorn, also known as the "desert ghost," is a rare animal native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reopening delayed due to technical issues
By Coachella Valley Times | Oct 4, 2024
The reopening of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has been postponed by one week, now scheduled for October 19 instead of the initially planned October 12. This delay is attributed to unforeseen technical difficulties encountered during the annual maintenance period.
Living Desert Zoo unveils fall updates in latest 'foxpaws' issue
By Coachella Valley Times | Sep 30, 2024
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has released its fall 2024 issue of "foxpaws," providing insights into various projects and events at the zoo. The publication highlights several key initiatives, including conservation efforts for desert carnivores like the black-footed cat, sand cat, and fennec fox.
Annual snow guessing contest starts October 1
By Coachella Valley Times | Sep 28, 2024
The San Jacinto Mountains are expected to be covered in snow soon, marking the start of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Annual Snow Guessing Contest. The event begins on October 1 and continues until the first measurable inch of snow falls at the Tramway’s Mountain Station, which is located at an elevation of 8,516 feet.
Annual snow guessing contest by Palm Springs Aerial Tramway starts October 1
By Coachella Valley Times | Sep 28, 2024
The San Jacinto Mountains will soon be blanketed in snow, signaling the start of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Annual Snow Guessing Contest. This event begins on October 1 and continues until the first measurable inch of snow falls at the Tramway’s Mountain Station, which is situated at an elevation of 8,516 feet.
Kenya's Wild Snake Project promotes snake conservation through education
By Coachella Valley Times | Sep 27, 2024
Conservationists face significant challenges in changing public attitudes and behaviors toward snakes. The Wild Snake Project in Kenya is one such initiative dedicated to this cause. During a visit to Kenya for The Living Desert’s Building Community Conservation Success workshops, conservation social scientist Katie Shaw took the opportunity to meet with partners at The Wild Snake Project.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reopening delayed until October 12
By Coachella Valley Times | Sep 26, 2024
The reopening date for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has been moved from October 7 to October 12 due to maintenance delays.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reschedules reopening to October 12
By Coachella Valley Times | Sep 26, 2024
The reopening of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has been postponed from October 7 to October 12 due to maintenance delays. Chris Bartsch, Vice President of Tramway Systems, stated, "Due to a one-day weather delay and projects taking longer than anticipated, we had to make the unfortunate decision to delay our reopening by five days."
Living Desert aids Big Bear Alpine Zoo amid Line Fire crisis
By Coachella Valley Times | Sep 19, 2024
The Living Desert has stepped in to support the Big Bear Alpine Zoo by providing temporary shelter for approximately 50 animals and their staff during the Line Fire.
Illegal pet trade threatens wildlife; how you can help
By Coachella Valley Times | Jul 31, 2024
The illegal pet trade poses a significant threat to wildlife by disrupting ecosystems and endangering species. High global demand for exotic pets fuels the illicit capture and trade of millions of animals.
Living Desert partners with brewery to aid Mexican wolf conservation
By Coachella Valley Times | Jul 29, 2024
The Living Desert has announced a new collaboration with Luchador Brewing Company to support the conservation of the Mexican wolf, a species once on the verge of extinction. The partnership has resulted in the creation of El Lobo Mexican Lager, with $1 from every pint sold being directed towards The Living Desert's conservation initiatives.
Summer membership offers savings at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
By Coachella Valley Times | Jul 17, 2024
There is still time to take advantage of a Summer Membership at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Valid until September 30, summer memberships offer several benefits.
Animal Olympics at The Living Desert showcases extraordinary wildlife feats
By Coachella Valley Times | Jul 17, 2024
The Living Desert is set to host its own version of the Olympics, focusing on the remarkable athleticism of land-bound animals. Dr. James A. Danoff-Burg, an enthusiast of human and animal athletic prowess, shares his insights into this unique event scheduled for July 26.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers complimentary admission for first responders in August
By Coachella Valley Times | Jul 15, 2024
For the entire month of August, all qualified first responders will receive free admission to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway as part of “First Responders Days.” Additionally, up to four guests accompanying them will receive a 25% discount on their regular tram fares.
Guide released on benefits of native plants for urban gardens
By Coachella Valley Times | Jul 3, 2024
Native plants provide critical habitat for threatened pollinators and other local wildlife. By incorporating native species into home gardens, individuals can restore fragmented urban ecosystems and reduce water consumption.
San Diego doctor: ‘Addressing sinus headaches is something that can be done through some of our minimally invasive approaches’
By Coachella Valley Times | Jul 1, 2024
Sinus headaches are a common symptom of sinusitis and can become quite debilitating. According to Dr. Paul Schalch Lepe of SoCal Breathe Free, sinus headaches can be addressed in several minimally invasive ways.
Living Desert Zoo offers new membership perks with local business discounts
By Coachella Valley Times | Jun 27, 2024
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has introduced a series of new benefits for its members. Zoo members are now entitled to exclusive discounts at over 50 establishments throughout the Coachella Valley.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway extends hours for Fourth of July
By Coachella Valley Times | Jun 24, 2024
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will operate with extended hours on July 4 and 5 in observance of the Fourth of July holiday. On Thursday, July 4, the first tramcar up will be at 8:00 a.m., the last tramcar up will be at 8:00 p.m., and the last tramcar down will be at 9:30 p.m. On Friday, July 5, the first tramcar up will be at 8:00 a.m., the last tramcar up will be at 9:00 p.m., and the last tramcar down will be at 10:30 p.m.