The Great Bear at Hersheypark is an exhilarating inverted steel roller coaster that has been thrilling visitors since 1998. This impressive ride, manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard, boasts a height of 90 feet, reaches speeds of up to 60 mph, and features a 124-foot curved drop. With a ride duration of 2 minutes and 55 seconds, the Great Bear offers an intense and memorable experience for coaster enthusiasts.
What Are the Key Statistics of the Great Bear?
The Great Bear roller coaster at Hersheypark is known for its impressive statistics:
- Height: 90 feet (27 meters)
- Maximum Speed: 58-60 mph (93-97 km/h)
- Drop: 124 feet (curved)
- Ride Duration: 2 minutes and 55 seconds
- Track Length: 2,800 feet (850 meters)
- Inversions: 4
These stats make the Great Bear a formidable presence in Hersheypark’s coaster lineup.
How Does the Great Bear’s Height Compare to Other Coasters?
At 90 feet tall, the Great Bear may not be the tallest coaster in Hersheypark, but it’s certainly not small either. Here’s how it compares to some other coasters in the park:
| Coaster Name | Height (feet) |
|---|---|
| Skyrush | 200 |
| Storm Runner | 150 |
| Great Bear | 90 |
| Wildcat | 85 |
| Comet | 78 |
While not the tallest, the Great Bear’s inverted design makes its 90-foot height feel much more intense than traditional coasters of similar stature.
What Makes the Great Bear’s Speed Unique?
The Great Bear’s top speed of 58-60 mph is impressive, especially considering its relatively modest height. This speed is achieved through:
- A steep initial drop
- Efficient track design
- Minimal friction due to its inverted nature
The sensation of speed is amplified by the fact that riders’ feet dangle freely beneath them, creating an unobstructed view of the ground rushing by.
How Does the Great Bear’s Drop Enhance the Ride Experience?
The 124-foot curved drop of the Great Bear is a standout feature:
- It’s longer than the initial lift hill, creating an ‘extra’ drop sensation
- The curved nature adds a twist to the typical straight drop
- Riders experience both vertical and lateral G-forces during the descent
This unique drop sets the tone for the rest of the ride, preparing passengers for the intense inversions to come.
What Can Riders Expect During the 2:55 Ride Duration?
During the nearly 3-minute ride, Great Bear passengers experience:
- A climb up the 90-foot lift hill
- The signature 124-foot curved drop
- 4 inversions including:
- A vertical loop
- An Immelmann loop
- A zero-g roll
- A corkscrew
- Multiple high-speed turns and helixes
This packed ride sequence ensures that every second of the 2:55 duration is filled with thrills.
How Does the Great Bear’s Track Layout Maximize Thrills?
The Great Bear’s 2,800-foot track is designed to maximize the rider experience:
- Terrain Utilization: The coaster takes advantage of Hersheypark’s hilly terrain, diving into ravines for added thrill.
- Over-Water Sections: Parts of the track pass over Spring Creek, adding a scenic element to the ride.
- Near-Miss Elements: The layout includes several near-miss experiences with other park structures, enhancing the sense of speed and danger.
- Compact Design: Despite its length, the track is compactly designed, fitting a lot of elements into a relatively small footprint.
What Makes the Great Bear’s Inversions Special?
The Great Bear features four inversions, each offering a unique experience:
- Vertical Loop: A classic element that pulls significant G-forces.
- Immelmann Loop: Named after a fighter plane maneuver, this inversion combines a half-loop with a half-roll.
- Zero-G Roll: Provides a brief moment of weightlessness as riders are inverted.
- Corkscrew: A tight spiral that quickly inverts riders twice in succession.
These inversions are strategically placed throughout the ride to maintain intensity from start to finish.
How Does the Great Bear Compare to Other B&M Inverted Coasters?
While the Great Bear shares similarities with other Bolliger & Mabillard inverted coasters, it has some unique features:
- It’s one of the more compact B&M inverts, fitting a lot of elements into a small space.
- The curved first drop is relatively uncommon among B&M inverts.
- Its integration with the park’s terrain makes it stand out from its flatter counterparts.
What Safety Features Does the Great Bear Incorporate?
Safety is paramount on any roller coaster, and the Great Bear is no exception:
- Over-the-shoulder restraints keep riders secure during inversions
- Redundant hydraulic systems ensure restraints remain locked
- Multiple brake runs throughout the course for emergency stops if needed
- Regular maintenance and inspections to ensure all components are in top condition
These features allow riders to focus on the thrills rather than worrying about safety.
How Has the Great Bear Impacted Hersheypark’s Popularity?
Since its introduction in 1998, the Great Bear has become:
- A flagship attraction for Hersheypark
- A draw for coaster enthusiasts from around the world
- A key factor in the park’s competitive edge against other regional amusement parks
Its enduring popularity has helped cement Hersheypark’s reputation as a premier destination for thrill-seekers.
The Great Bear at Hersheypark continues to be a beloved attraction, combining impressive statistics with a thrilling ride experience. Its unique features and integration with the park’s landscape make it a must-ride for coaster enthusiasts and casual park-goers alike.
References:
1. Great Bear (roller coaster) – Wikipedia
2. Great Bear – Coasterpedia
3. Guide to 15 Coasters at Hersheypark – Hershey, PA Stories