If you’re looking for an exhilarating experience while in Colorado, then enjoy a ride on one of the state’s mountain coasters. The difference between an actual roller coaster and these mountain coasters is the fact that riders on mountain coasters are seated in an individual car in which they have full control of the speed. However riders can gain speeds up to 30 miles per hour and experience hairpin turns and thrilling descents, all while catching incredible views of the Colorado Rockies. Experience these seven exhilarating mountain coasters the next time you’re in the Centennial State.
Alpine Coaster at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
This list starts off with the first mountain coaster in the country, the Alpine Coaster at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Located in the town of Glenwood Springs, this adventure park, especially the Alpine Coaster, has grown into a popular attraction to enjoy throughout the year. Catch plenty of mountain views from this adrenaline-inducing coaster in between the thrilling turns and descents.
Outlaw Mountain Coaster at Steamboat Resort
Head to Steamboat Springs to enjoy the longest mountain coaster in the United States. Known as the Outlaw Mountain Coaster, this coaster at Steamboat Resort stretches over 6,000 linear feet. The ride itself will take 10 minutes, and riders should expect hairpin turns, steep descents and speeds up to 27 miles per hour. Don’t miss out on the incredible mountain views during the ascent, which is right before dropping 400 vertical feet.
Gold Runner Alpine Coaster at Breckenridge Ski Resort
Breckenridge Ski Resort isn’t just for skiing and snowboarding; it’s also home to the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster. This 2,500-foot long coaster track can be ridden by yourself or with someone else. The coaster soars above the resort’s famous ski runs, since it’s located near Peak 8 near the Rip’s Ride ski lift.
Breathtaker Coaster at Aspen Snowmass
You’ll enjoy a scenic ride on this mountain coaster at Snowmass Mountain. The track runs for over a mile, winding through the surrounding forest where you’re completely surrounded by nature. As with all the coasters on this list, you can control your speed but speeds can reach as high as 28 miles per hour on the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster.
Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster at Vail Ski Resort
Vail is home to another Summit County mountain coaster, the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster. This alpine coaster is 3,400 feet long, and as its name suggests, the coaster brings riders through the forest and along the contours of the surrounding mountain.
Rocky Mountain Coaster at Copper Mountain
The next time you’re at Copper Mountain, take some time to enjoy the Rocky Mountain Coaster located near the American Flyer lift. This year round coaster is open daily but you must purchase tickets to be able to ride. This 5,800-foot coaster is one of the longest in the country. Since opening, this coaster has gained popularity among both kids and adults alike.
Inferno Mountain Coaster at Purgatory Resort
Purgatory Resort in Durango is home to the Inferno Mountain Coaster, which was part of the ski resort’s multi-million dollar renovation effort. Located near Lift 4 of the ski resort, the Inferno Mountain Coaster is 4,000 feet long and brings riders through switchbacks, 360-degree turns and a vertical drop of 300 feet. This alpine coaster will be open for visitors in both summer and winter.
