What if you could combine the beauty of nature with an amusement park ride? That’s where mountain coasters come into play, merging the thrill of roller coasters with the beauty of outdoor landscapes.
Ride on mountainside tracks as you manually control the speed of your cars. Go fast during twists and turns or go slow to embrace the breathtaking views. These coasters are typically found at resorts, which also host other activities like chairlift rides and zip lines.
Massanutten Family Adventure Park
Drive time from Dulles: About 2 hours
Opening Summer 2024
Launching this summer is the Mountain Mayhem Fun Coaster, a ride that traverses over 3,380 feet of stunning Shenandoah Valley terrain. In addition to the coaster, the resort offers mountain biking, zip lines, and an adventure course. 1822 Resort Dr., Massanutten, prices have yet to be announced
Wisp Resort
Drive time from Dulles: About 3 hours
Through May 27, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Board the Mountain Coaster, then prepare for turns, dips, and corkscrews as you control the pace. Riders can speed up to 28 mph on the scenic 3,500-foot downhill track along Wisp Mountain. An adult must accompany children under 54 inches or those ages 3 to 7 who are at least 38 inches tall. 296 Marsh Hill Rd., McHenry, Maryland, $19 for a single rider, $29 for a double rider
Camelback Mountain Adventures
Drive time from Dulles: About 4 hours
Mondays to Fridays, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Weekends, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Experience an exhilarating 4,500-foot descent down the mountainside up to 25 mph. Riders can also choose to slow down and take in the natural beauty of the Camelback’s forested slopes. Drivers must be at least nine years old and 52 inches tall. Closed-toed are required. 243 Resort Dr., Tannersville, Pennsylvania, $25–$28
Brushcreek Falls RV Resort
Drive time from Dulles: About 5 hours
Opening end of August 2024
Inspired by Tennessee’s renowned coasters, this ride in the Appalachian Mountains will feature a coal mine theme along with a tunnel section and two-story launch station. Guests can enjoy the scenic hillside and other activities such as rock wall climbing and an arcade. 5127 Eads Mill Rd., Princeton, West Virginia, prices have yet to be announced
Feature image courtesy Wisp Resort
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