Portland Aerial Tram

Portland Aerial Tram is an urban aerial tramway in Portland, United States, linking the South Waterfront neighborhood along the Willamette River to the health campus on Marquam Hill. The two cabins travel a distance of roughly 1000 meters (about 3300 feet) and carry up to 78 people each.

The installation came from a partnership between the city of Portland and the university, opening in December 2006 after years of planning. The investment aimed to improve access from the expanding riverfront district to the existing medical center.

The name reflects the link between healthcare and urban life that has become part of the city's identity since the opening. Commuters and visitors use the cabins daily to move between the riverfront and the hilltop hospital, reducing road traffic.

The system runs daily with schedules that change by season and offers reduced fares for certain user groups. The ride takes roughly three minutes in each direction and pairs well with a walk along the riverfront.

The cabins rise roughly 150 meters (about 500 feet) in elevation during the trip, so the view of the city and surrounding peaks changes continuously. On clear days, both Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens become visible through the windows.

Location: Portland

Official opening: December 15, 2006

Website: http://gobytram.com

GPS coordinates: 45.49930,-122.67300

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:23