Wyler Aerial Tramway: A Timeless View from El Paso’s Skies

In the heart of the Sun City, nestled within the rugged Franklin Mountains, the Wyler Aerial Tramway once stood as one of El Paso’s most remarkable attractions. For decades, it carried visitors high above the cityscape, offering breathtaking views of the Chihuahuan Desert, the winding Rio Grande, and the seamless blend of cultures that define this borderland. Though it ceased operations in 2018, the tramway remains an indelible part of El Paso’s history, its story etched into the collective memory of locals and visitors alike.

The Ascent: A Ride Like No Other

Stepping into one of Wyler’s Swiss-made gondolas felt like entering another dimension—one where the vast expanse of Texas, New Mexico, and even parts of Mexico stretched out beneath your feet. Suspended by thick steel cables, the tram glided effortlessly up the rocky slopes, carrying passengers 940 feet above the desert floor to the summit of Ranger Peak. At the top, a viewing platform awaited, providing a 360-degree panorama that could take one’s breath away even before the altitude did.

This wasn’t just a ride; it was an experience that ignited a sense of awe. The shifting hues of the landscape—from the amber glow of sunrise to the fiery brilliance of dusk—painted the mountains in colors that no photograph could ever truly capture. And on clear days, when the desert air was crisp and still, one could see over 7,000 square miles, a horizon that seemed to stretch into infinity.

From Private Venture to Public Treasure

The origins of the tramway trace back to 1959, when broadcast pioneer Karl O. Wyler sought an innovative way to transport materials up Ranger Peak for his television station, KTSM. What began as a practical solution soon evolved into a public attraction, as Wyler recognized the potential for people to experience the same thrilling ascent that once belonged only to equipment and engineers.

By 1960, the tram was open to the public, quickly becoming a beloved local landmark. In 1997, after nearly four decades of operation under private ownership, Wyler donated the tramway to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. It was a gift to the people, ensuring that future generations could enjoy the same skyward journey he had once envisioned.

An End and a Legacy

Despite its popularity, time and wear eventually caught up with the tramway. In 2018, after engineers assessed the aging infrastructure, officials made the difficult decision to close it indefinitely, citing safety concerns and the extensive costs of refurbishment. While there have been discussions about restoring or rebuilding it, no concrete plans have materialized—leaving its return an open-ended question.

Yet, the absence of the tramway has not diminished its legacy. The trailheads that weave through the Franklin Mountains still lead adventurers to stunning overlooks, where echoes of Wyler’s vision linger in the wind. The summit of Ranger Peak remains a destination, now reached by hikers instead of cable cars. And for those who were fortunate enough to ride the tramway before its closure, the memory of floating above the rugged terrain—suspended between sky and earth—lives on.

The Future: A Hopeful Horizon

El Pasoans remain hopeful that one day, the Wyler Aerial Tramway will return. Until then, its story endures as a testament to innovation, generosity, and the enduring beauty of the Franklin Mountains. Whether by tram or by trail, the call of the heights remains, inviting all who seek to see the world from above.