High above El Paso, the Wyler Aerial Tramway once carried visitors to the top of Ranger Peak, offering sweeping views of Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico all at once. For decades, it was one of the city’s most unique attractions—a quick four-minute ride that felt like an adventure and ended with a postcard-worthy panorama. But in 2018, the tramway suddenly closed, leaving locals and tourists wondering if it would ever return. This article looks back at the Wyler Aerial Tramway’s fascinating history, the reasons behind its closure, and what might lie ahead for this beloved piece of El Paso’s skyline.
The Origins of Wyler Aerial Tramway
Although it’s now a historical landmark, the Wyler Aerial Tramway began as a practical solution to a technical challenge.
The Wyler Aerial Tramway began with one man’s passion for broadcasting and innovation. In the late 1950s, Karl O. Wyler, owner of El Paso’s KTSM radio and television stations, needed a way to reach the top of Ranger Peak in the Franklin Mountains to install broadcast transmitters. Rather than building a road, Wyler chose a more creative solution—a tramway.
Construction of the tramway started in 1959, designed and built by the Swiss-American company Bell Engineering, which specialized in aerial lift systems. The project was no small feat. The tramway’s cables stretched more than 2,600 feet, climbing to an elevation of about 5,632 feet at the summit. It originally served as a utility tram for transporting heavy broadcasting equipment, not as a tourist attraction.
However, its location and breathtaking views soon sparked public curiosity. Locals began asking for rides, and Wyler realized the tramway’s potential beyond broadcasting. Over time, it transformed into a one-of-a-kind experience that showcased El Paso’s rugged beauty from above. By the late 1960s, it had become a favorite destination for residents and visitors alike—a blend of engineering ingenuity and natural wonder that reflected both Wyler’s vision and the spirit of the region.
Safety Concerns and the Decision to Close
By 2018, the Wyler Aerial Tramway had carried hundreds of thousands of passengers to the top of Ranger Peak. But behind the scenic rides and family memories were growing concerns about the system’s age and condition. The tramway’s equipment, originally built in 1959, was well past its intended lifespan. Despite regular inspections and maintenance by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), it became clear that the infrastructure no longer met modern safety standards.
That year, an independent engineering assessment confirmed what officials had feared: the tramway needed major upgrades or a complete rebuild to operate safely. The cost to replace the outdated components, including the cables, towers, and cars, was estimated to be in the millions. Because of the potential risk to passengers, TPWD decided to close the attraction indefinitely in September 2018 rather than attempt short-term fixes.
The decision disappointed many El Paso residents who saw the tramway as a local treasure. Yet safety came first. Officials emphasized that while the closure was necessary, they remained committed to finding a path toward reopening. The Wyler Aerial Tramway’s closure marked the end of an era—but it also opened the door to discussions about how to preserve and modernize one of West Texas’s most iconic landmarks.
The Renovation and Funding Efforts
In the years following its 2018 closure, restoring the Wyler Aerial Tramway became a shared priority for state leaders, local agencies, and civic groups. The process of renovation has taken shape through phased planning, design studies, and securing financial support. Key players include the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), the Camino Real Regional Mobility Authority (CRRMA), and the El Paso Community Foundation (EPCF).
Planning and Phasing
Soon after the tramway was shut down for safety reasons, TPWD engaged the engineering firm Atkins Global to draft a feasibility study and master plan for the site. The plan is divided into two main phases:
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Phase 1 focuses on site infrastructure improvements, such as expanded parking, upgraded access roads, day-use facilities, ADA upgrades, restrooms, trails, and general site modernization.
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Phase 2 centers on rebuilding the tram system itself and establishing a new visitor center at the base station.
This phased approach allows the project to move forward in manageable stages while coordinating construction more efficiently. Once the new tram is operational, it could even assist with transporting equipment and materials uphill, cutting down on costs.
Funding Moves and Financial Commitments
Securing sufficient funding has been one of the biggest challenges, but progress has been steady.
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In 2019 and 2021, the Texas Legislature granted TPWD $10 million to begin the tramway project.
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In 2025, State Senator César Blanco announced an additional $7 million, bringing total state-level investment to about $27 million.
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Local partners, including EPCF and CRRMA, have also played key roles. EPCF helped rally public awareness and support, while CRRMA has overseen construction and project management.
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In 2024, CRRMA approved a $15.8 million contract with International Eagle Enterprises for the first construction phase.
As of now, Phase 1 construction is underway, with officials projecting completion around September 2026. This will pave the way for Phase 2 and the eventual installation of a new tram system.
Challenges and Balancing Acts
Despite progress, the project faces several ongoing challenges. The total cost is expected to exceed $35 million, and building in the rugged Franklin Mountains adds complexity. Transporting materials, ensuring environmental protection, and meeting modern safety standards all require careful coordination.
Even so, momentum remains strong. With state funding secured, local partnerships in place, and construction plans advancing, the long-awaited revival of the Wyler Aerial Tramway appears closer to reality than ever before.
Design Plans for the New Tramway
When fully realized, the refurbished Wyler Aerial Tramway is intended to offer more than just a ride up the mountain. The design aims to modernize the visitor experience, enhance safety, and integrate the tram into a larger park setting. Below are some of the key components and features being planned.
Larger, More Modern Cable Cars
One of the major upgrades in the new design is the use of larger cable cars. Each car is expected to hold around 15 passengers, allowing more visitors per trip and reducing wait times. The new vehicles should also provide smoother, quieter rides with updated controls, safety systems, and better comfort. The new summit station will likely include improved viewing areas and an observation deck, making the destination itself a more complete experience.
Summit Station and Observation Facilities
At the top of Ranger Peak, a new summit station is planned to enhance both viewing and visitor experience. The station design will include lookout points, an aerial station platform, and possibly improved indoor and outdoor amenities so visitors can relax and enjoy the sweeping views in greater comfort.
Supporting Infrastructure: Roads, Parking, Trails, and Amenities
The tramway renovation goes beyond just rebuilding the lift. It includes a complete overhaul of surrounding infrastructure to improve access and the overall park experience. Plans include:
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Roadway extensions and a new loop road to ease traffic flow within the site.
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Expanded parking areas to accommodate more visitors and minimize congestion.
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Shelters, day-use facilities, and shaded rest areas to provide comfort and protection from the desert sun.
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Trails, an amphitheater, and scenic spots to connect the tramway with the rest of Franklin Mountains State Park.
These upgrades will make the Wyler site a well-rounded destination for both locals and tourists, offering multiple activities beyond the tram ride itself.
Phased Implementation and Flexibility
Design planners are following a phased approach to ensure construction proceeds efficiently and safely. Infrastructure improvements like parking, roads, and shelters will be completed first, laying the groundwork for the tram system to follow. Once the tram is operational, it could even help transport equipment and materials uphill, reducing the need for heavy ground transport or helicopters.
Challenges and Design Constraints
Building a new tramway in such rugged terrain is no simple task. The project faces several challenges:
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Terrain and geology: The route crosses steep, rocky slopes that require precise engineering for tower placement and cable support.
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Safety and regulatory standards: The new design must meet modern tramway safety codes, ADA accessibility requirements, and environmental guidelines.
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Balancing cost and longevity: Using durable, high-quality materials increases initial costs but ensures the tramway will last for decades.
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Environmental and visual considerations: Because the tram sits within a protected natural area, the design must blend with the landscape and preserve the park’s natural character.
Despite these challenges, the new tramway is shaping up to be a major improvement—safer, more accessible, and better equipped to welcome future generations of visitors to the heights of Ranger Peak.
Community Impact and Historical Significance
For generations, the Wyler Aerial Tramway has been more than just a mode of transport; it’s a vital thread in the fabric of El Paso’s community. Community leaders recognize it as a local gem, key for enhancing the quality of life and fostering pride.
Originally built in 1959 and opened to the public in 2001, the tramway has drawn approximately 45,000 visitors annually. Its historical importance is tied to its role as a gateway to the Franklin Mountains, offering breathtaking views of three states and two countries.
Despite its closure in 2018 due to safety concerns, plans for revival aim to restore this community asset. The goal is to attract more visitors and improve access, preserving its status as a beloved visitor attraction.
Future Prospects and Developments
As excitement builds for the Wyler Aerial Tramway’s revival, the future prospects of this iconic attraction promise to redefine visitor experiences. The project aims to replace the original system with new, larger cars accommodating 15 passengers each, enhancing your experience.
Phase one will kick off soon, focusing on access roads and park amenities, lasting about two years. With $36 million needed for completion, $26 million is already secured, including $20 million from the Texas Legislature, ensuring essential improvements.
You can look forward to a new visitor center and observation deck, enriching attractions for tourists and school tours alike. Community engagement and continuous funding efforts are key to realizing this vision, with comprehensive completion in two to three years.