The Magnificence of Wooden Roller Coasters
Wooden roller coasters have been thrilling riders for over a century. They offer a unique experience, with their rough and bumpy tracks providing a sense of excitement that cannot be replicated by their steel counterparts. Wooden roller coasters are often considered to be more nostalgic and traditional, and they are beloved by many roller coaster enthusiasts around the world.
There are many wooden roller coasters around the world, with varying sizes and levels of thrill. Some of these roller coasters have become famous for their unique designs, while others are known for their record-breaking heights and speeds. In this article, we will explore the world’s largest wooden roller coasters, and specifically focus on the third largest one in existence.
What Defines a Wooden Roller Coaster?
Wooden roller coasters are defined by their use of wooden tracks, which are supported by a wooden structure. The cars are also made of wood, and they are pulled up the initial lift hill by a chain. Once at the top of the hill, the cars are released and gravity takes over, sending them hurtling down the track. Unlike steel roller coasters, wooden coasters often have a rougher ride, with more airtime and lateral movement.
Wooden roller coasters were the first type of roller coasters to be invented. They originated in the late 19th century, and quickly became popular at amusement parks around the world. While steel roller coasters have become more prevalent in recent years, wooden coasters still hold a special place in the hearts of many coaster enthusiasts.
Ranking the World’s Largest Wooden Roller Coasters
When it comes to ranking the world’s largest wooden roller coasters, there are a few different factors that come into play. Some coasters are ranked based on height or speed, while others are ranked based on their length or number of inversions. For the purposes of this article, we will be focusing on the ranking of wooden coasters based on their height.
The top three wooden roller coasters in the world are all located in North America. They are: the T Express at Everland in South Korea (183 feet), the Lightning Rod at Dollywood in Tennessee, USA (165 feet), and the third largest, which we will reveal later in this article.
The Top Two Wooden Roller Coasters Revealed
Before we reveal the third largest wooden roller coaster in the world, let’s take a quick look at the top two. The T Express at Everland in South Korea is currently the tallest wooden roller coaster in the world, standing at an impressive 183 feet tall. It opened in 2008 and quickly became a fan favorite, with its steep drops and intense airtime.
The second tallest wooden roller coaster in the world is the Lightning Rod at Dollywood in Tennessee, USA. It stands at 165 feet tall and reaches speeds of up to 73 miles per hour. It is also the first wooden roller coaster to feature a launch system, which propels the cars up the initial hill instead of using a traditional chain lift.
The Third Largest Wooden Roller Coaster in the World
Now, onto the third largest wooden roller coaster in the world. This coaster is located in Ohio, USA, and it is known as the "Beast". The Beast opened in 1979 and has been thrilling riders ever since. It stands at 110 feet tall, which may not sound as impressive as the top two coasters, but it makes up for it in other ways.
The Beast is known for its length, with a track that stretches over 7,000 feet. It also features a number of tunnels, helixes, and drops that keep riders on the edge of their seats. Despite being over 40 years old, the Beast is still considered to be one of the most thrilling wooden roller coasters in the world.
An Overview of the Third Largest Wooden Roller Coaster
The Beast is located at Kings Island amusement park in Ohio, USA. It was designed by John Allen of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, who was known for his innovative wooden roller coaster designs. The Beast took two years to construct and cost $4.3 million at the time.
The coaster features two lift hills, with the first one taking riders up to a height of 110 feet. From there, they are sent hurtling through a series of drops and helixes, reaching speeds of up to 65 miles per hour. The Beast is also known for its extensive use of tunnels, which add to the thrill of the ride.
The Construction and Design of the Third Largest Wooden Roller Coaster
The Beast was designed to take advantage of the natural terrain of the park, with the track weaving through the forest and around a lake. The coaster features a unique track design, with a double helix that is often cited as one of the most thrilling moments of the ride.
The construction of the Beast was a massive undertaking, with over 650,000 board feet of Southern yellow pine used in the construction of the track. The coaster also features two trains, each with six cars that can accommodate up to 36 riders at a time.
The Thrilling Experience of Riding the Third Largest Wooden Roller Coaster
Riding the Beast is a thrilling experience that is sure to leave riders breathless. The coaster features a number of drops, including a 141-foot drop that sends riders hurtling towards the ground at speeds of up to 65 miles per hour. The double helix is another highlight of the ride, with its tight turns and sudden drops.
One of the most unique aspects of the Beast is its use of tunnels. The coaster features a total of four tunnels, which add to the sense of speed and disorientation. The tunnels also provide a brief respite from the sun and heat, making them a welcome relief on hot summer days.
The Legacy of the Third Largest Wooden Roller Coaster
The Beast has had a lasting impact on the world of roller coasters. It was one of the first coasters to be designed with a focus on the natural surroundings, and it set a new standard for wooden coaster design. The Beast has inspired countless other coasters, and it remains a favorite among coaster enthusiasts today.
The coaster has also been featured in a number of films and television shows, including the 1984 movie "Bolero" and the television show "The Drew Carey Show". It has also been the subject of numerous documentaries and books, cementing its place in coaster history.
Contenders for the Title of Third Largest Wooden Roller Coaster
While the Beast currently holds the title of the third largest wooden roller coaster in the world, it is not without its contenders. There are a number of other coasters that come close to its height, including the Colossos at Heide Park Resort in Germany (98 feet) and the Voyage at Holiday World in Indiana, USA (100 feet).
However, the Beast remains one of the most iconic wooden roller coasters in the world, and its length and unique design make it stand out from the competition.
Future Developments in Wooden Roller Coaster Design and Construction
As technology advances, there are sure to be new developments in the world of wooden roller coaster design and construction. One such development is the use of hybrid coasters, which combine wooden supports with steel tracks. This allows for smoother rides and more complex designs.
Another trend is the use of virtual reality on roller coasters, which can enhance the ride experience and create new thrills. However, many coaster enthusiasts remain devoted to the classic wooden coasters, and it is likely that they will continue to be a staple of amusement parks around the world for years to come.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Thrills of a Wooden Roller Coaster
Whether you are a seasoned coaster enthusiast or a first-time rider, there is something special about the thrill of a wooden roller coaster. These coasters offer a unique experience that cannot be replicated by their steel counterparts, with a rough and bumpy ride that provides a sense of excitement and nostalgia.
The Beast may be the third largest wooden roller coaster in the world, but it is also one of the most thrilling. Its unique design and use of natural surroundings make it a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So if you find yourself at Kings Island amusement park, be sure to take a ride on the Beast and experience the thrill for yourself.
