The Great Bear at Hersheypark is a thrilling inverted steel roller coaster located in the Kissing Tower Hill region. This iconic ride features a 90-foot height, 124-foot drop, and reaches speeds up to 60 mph. With its unique layout weaving through the park’s landscape and over Spring Creek, the Great Bear offers a 2-minute 55-second adventure with four inversions, including loops, corkscrews, and a zero-g roll.
What Are the Key Features of the Great Bear’s Layout?
The Great Bear’s layout is designed to maximize thrills while integrating seamlessly with Hersheypark’s landscape. Here are its key features:
- Type: Steel – Inverted roller coaster
- Height: 90 feet (27 meters)
- Drop: 124 feet (38 meters)
- Length: 2,800 feet (850 meters)
- Speed: Up to 58-60 miles per hour (93-97 km/h)
- Inversions: 4
- Duration: 2 minutes and 55 seconds
The ride’s layout includes:
1. A chain lift hill
2. Steep initial drop
3. Vertical loop
4. Zero-g roll
5. Cobra roll (counts as two inversions)
6. Interlocking corkscrews
The track weaves through nearby attractions, enhancing the sense of speed and proximity to other park elements.
Where Is the Great Bear Located Within Hersheypark?
The Great Bear is situated in the Kissing Tower Hill region of Hersheypark. This strategic location offers several advantages:
- Proximity to Other Attractions:
- Kissing Tower
- SooperDooperLooper roller coaster
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Coal Cracker log flume
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Natural Elements: The ride passes over Spring Creek, adding a scenic element to the experience.
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Accessibility: Easily reached from main pathways in the Kissing Tower Hill area.
How Can Visitors Navigate the Great Bear’s Queue System?
Navigating the queue system efficiently can significantly enhance your Hersheypark experience. Here are some strategies:
- Use the Hersheypark App:
- Check real-time wait times
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Plan your visit around less busy periods
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Consider Fast Track Services:
- Reduces wait times for popular attractions
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May come at an additional cost
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Optimal Visiting Times:
- Weekdays
- Early mornings
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Off-season periods
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Front Row Queue:
- Separate line available for front row enthusiasts
- May have longer wait times but offers a premium experience
What Are the Height Requirements and Restrictions for the Great Bear?
Understanding the height requirements is crucial for a smooth park experience:
- Minimum Height: 54 inches (137 cm)
- Hersheypark Category: Twizzlers
Riders must meet this height requirement to ensure safety and enjoyment of the ride.
How Does the Great Bear’s Layout Integrate with Nearby Amenities?
The Great Bear’s layout is designed to complement surrounding park amenities:
| Amenity Type | Nearby Options |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Located near Kissing Tower and central areas |
| Dining | Spring Creek Smokehouse, eateries in Kissing Tower Hill and Midway America sections |
| Other Rides | Kissing Tower, SooperDooperLooper, Coal Cracker |
This integration allows for efficient movement between attractions and services, enhancing the overall park experience.
What Makes the Great Bear’s Layout Unique Among Roller Coasters?
The Great Bear stands out due to several unique aspects of its layout:
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Inverted Design: Riders are suspended below the track, offering a distinct perspective.
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Terrain Interaction: The layout takes advantage of Hersheypark’s natural landscape, including passing over Spring Creek.
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Compact Footprint: Despite its impressive length, the ride efficiently uses space by intertwining with other attractions.
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Variety of Elements: Combines vertical loops, zero-g roll, cobra roll, and corkscrews for a diverse riding experience.
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Scenic Views: The elevated portions of the track provide panoramic views of the park.
How Does the Great Bear’s Layout Contribute to Its Popularity?
The Great Bear’s layout is a key factor in its enduring popularity:
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Thrilling Elements: The combination of height, speed, and inversions appeals to thrill-seekers.
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Smooth Ride Experience: B&M’s track design ensures a comfortable yet exciting journey.
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Visual Appeal: The twisting layout creates an impressive sight for both riders and observers.
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Capacity: Two trains with 32 riders each allow for efficient loading and reduced wait times.
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Reride Value: The complex layout offers different experiences depending on seating position, encouraging multiple rides.
What Safety Features Are Incorporated into the Great Bear’s Layout?
Safety is paramount in the Great Bear’s design:
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Over-the-Shoulder Restraints: Secure riders during inversions and high-speed maneuvers.
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Computer-Controlled Systems: Monitor train position and speed throughout the ride.
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Multiple Brake Runs: Ensure safe deceleration and stopping.
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Maintenance Access: The layout includes platforms and access points for regular inspections and maintenance.
How Has the Great Bear’s Layout Influenced Hersheypark’s Development?
Since its introduction in 1998, the Great Bear has played a significant role in Hersheypark’s evolution:
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Anchor Attraction: Serves as a centerpiece in the Kissing Tower Hill area.
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Park Flow: Its layout has influenced the placement of newer attractions and amenities.
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Marketing Draw: The distinctive silhouette has become an iconic part of Hersheypark’s skyline and marketing materials.
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Competitive Edge: Helped establish Hersheypark as a destination for coaster enthusiasts.
The Great Bear’s layout continues to be a benchmark for inverted coasters and remains a must-ride attraction for Hersheypark visitors.
References:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Bear_(roller_coaster)
2. https://www.hersheypark.com/assets/pdf/info/park-map/hersheypark-map-2024.pdf
3. https://stories.hersheypa.com/hersheypark-roller-coaster-guide-2024/