The Hershey Park flume ride, known as Coal Cracker, is a thrilling water attraction located in the Kissing Tower Hill region of Hersheypark. This hydroflume boat ride offers visitors a refreshing and exciting experience, featuring splashes through water canals, small hills, and a grand finale with a significant plunge. As one of the park’s popular attractions, Coal Cracker combines the classic elements of a flume ride with unique Hersheypark theming, making it a must-try for visitors of various ages and height categories.
What Are the Height Requirements for the Hershey Park Flume Ride?
The Coal Cracker flume ride at Hersheypark is accessible to a wide range of visitors, thanks to its inclusive height requirements. Unlike some more intense rides, there is no specific height category exclusion for this attraction. However, general Hersheypark height categories still apply:
- Hershey’s Miniatures: Under 36″
- Hershey’s Kisses: 36-42″
- Reese’s: 42-48″
- Hershey’s: 48-54″
- Twizzler and Jolly Rancher: 54″ and above
This inclusive approach allows families and groups with varied heights to enjoy the ride together, making it a popular choice for visitors of all ages.
How Long Are the Wait Times and How Can They Be Minimized?
Wait times for the Coal Cracker can vary significantly depending on several factors:
| Time Period | Average Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Peak Hours (Summer, Weekends, Holidays) | 20-45 minutes |
| Off-Peak Hours (Weekdays, School Year, Off-Season) | 10-20 minutes |
To minimize wait times and maximize your Hersheypark experience, consider these strategies:
- Visit during off-peak hours: Early mornings or later evenings tend to have shorter queues.
- Utilize Fast Track: While not specifically mentioned for Coal Cracker, this option allows you to skip lines on select attractions.
- Plan strategically: Hit popular rides early in the day or later in the evening when crowds are typically smaller.
- Check the Hersheypark app: It may provide real-time wait information to help you plan your visit.
What Are the Key Features of the Coal Cracker Flume Ride?
The Coal Cracker flume ride offers a unique and refreshing experience within Hersheypark. Here are its key features:
- Ride Type: Hydroflume boat ride
- Location: Kissing Tower Hill region of Hersheypark
- Experience:
- Water canal navigation
- Small hills for gentle thrills
- One significant plunge for an exciting climax
- Theming: Coal mining theme, reflecting Pennsylvania’s industrial heritage
- Wetness Factor: Expect to get splashed, particularly on the final drop
While specific dimensions and speed details are not provided, the ride offers a balanced mix of gentle water travel and thrilling drops, suitable for a wide range of visitors.
What Safety Guidelines Should Riders Follow?
Safety is paramount at Hersheypark, and the Coal Cracker flume ride has specific guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Rider Restrictions:
- Guests must transfer from wheelchairs or ECVs to the ride vehicle.
- Loose articles and hand-held items are not recommended.
- Food and drinks are prohibited on the ride.
Safety Recommendations:
- Follow all verbal and written instructions provided by ride operators.
- Secure all loose items in lockers or with non-riding members of your party.
- Remain seated and keep hands, arms, feet, and legs inside the ride vehicle at all times.
- Parents should closely supervise children to ensure they meet height requirements and follow safety rules.
Emergency Procedures:
- In case of any issues, alert the nearest staff member immediately.
- Follow all instructions given by park personnel in the event of an emergency.
- Park staff reserve the right to deny entrance to the ride based on safety considerations.
How Does the Coal Cracker Compare to Other Hersheypark Attractions?
The Coal Cracker holds a unique position among Hersheypark’s attractions:
- Family-Friendly: Unlike some of the more intense roller coasters, Coal Cracker is accessible to a wider age range.
- Cooling Experience: On hot summer days, it offers a refreshing break with its water elements.
- Nostalgic Appeal: As a classic flume ride, it appeals to both long-time park visitors and newcomers.
- Moderate Thrill Level: Provides excitement without the extreme intensity of some other park rides.
- Scenic Route: Offers views of the park from a unique perspective during the ride.
What Should Visitors Know Before Riding the Coal Cracker?
Before embarking on your Coal Cracker adventure, keep these tips in mind:
- Dress Appropriately: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet, or bring a change of clothes.
- Protect Valuables: Use waterproof cases for phones and cameras or leave them with a non-riding member of your group.
- Consider Timing: Riding later in the day might be preferable if you don’t want to walk around wet.
- Height Check: While inclusive, double-check that all members of your party meet the minimum height requirement for their category.
- Seating Arrangement: Heavier riders typically sit in the back for weight distribution.
How Has the Coal Cracker Evolved Since Its Introduction?
While specific details about the Coal Cracker’s evolution are not provided, it’s worth noting that many long-standing amusement park attractions undergo periodic refurbishments and updates. These may include:
- Enhanced theming to better reflect the coal mining narrative
- Safety upgrades to meet evolving industry standards
- Potential adjustments to the ride path or water features
- Improved queue areas or loading/unloading stations
Visitors who have experienced the ride over multiple years might notice subtle changes that keep the attraction fresh while maintaining its classic appeal.
The Coal Cracker flume ride at Hershey Park continues to be a beloved attraction, offering a perfect blend of refreshing fun and mild thrills. Its accessibility to a wide range of visitors, combined with its classic flume ride experience, ensures its enduring popularity among Hersheypark’s diverse array of attractions. Whether you’re seeking a cool respite on a hot day or a family-friendly adventure, the Coal Cracker delivers an enjoyable experience that captures the spirit of Hersheypark.