Hersheypark, the renowned amusement park in Pennsylvania, offers a diverse array of thrilling rides for visitors of all ages. The size and scale of these attractions vary significantly, from towering roller coasters to family-friendly carousels. This guide explores the dimensions, height requirements, and other specifications of Hersheypark’s most popular rides, providing essential information for park-goers planning their visit.
How Tall Are the Biggest Rides at Hersheypark?
Hersheypark boasts an impressive collection of roller coasters and thrill rides, with some reaching staggering heights. Here’s a breakdown of the tallest attractions:
- Candymonium: Standing at a towering 210 feet, this hypercoaster is the tallest ride in the park.
- Skyrush: While not the tallest, this intense coaster reaches a height of 200 feet.
- Storm Runner: This launched coaster lifts riders 18 stories high, approximately 180 feet.
- Fahrenheit: With a vertical lift, this coaster climbs to 121 feet before plunging down a beyond-vertical drop.
What Are the Length Specifications for Hersheypark’s Coasters?
The length of a roller coaster contributes significantly to the ride experience. Here are the track lengths for some of Hersheypark’s notable coasters:
- Candymonium: 4,636 feet
- Great Bear: 2,800 feet
- Fahrenheit: 2,700 feet
- Comet: 3,360 feet
How Fast Do Hersheypark Rides Go?
Speed is a crucial factor in the thrill factor of rides. Here’s a list of the fastest rides at Hersheypark:
- Candymonium: 76 mph
- Storm Runner: 72 mph (accelerating from 0 to 72 mph in just 2 seconds)
- Skyrush: 75 mph
- Fahrenheit: 58 mph
- Comet: 50 mph
What Are the Height Requirements for Hersheypark Rides?
Hersheypark uses a unique candy-themed system for height categories:
- Hershey’s Miniatures: Under 36 inches
- Reese’s: 36-42 inches
- Hershey’s: 42-48 inches
- Twizzlers: 48-54 inches
- Jolly Rancher: 54 inches and above
Here are the height requirements for some popular rides:
| Ride Name | Height Requirement | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Candymonium | 54 inches | Jolly Rancher |
| Fahrenheit | 54 inches | Jolly Rancher |
| Storm Runner | 54 inches | Jolly Rancher |
| Comet | 42 inches | Hershey’s |
| Cocoa Cruiser | 36 inches | Reese’s |
How Long Do Hersheypark Rides Last?
The duration of rides can vary significantly. Here are some examples:
- Candymonium: 2 minutes, 26 seconds
- Fahrenheit: 1 minute, 25 seconds
- Storm Runner: 1 minute
- Comet: 1 minute, 45 seconds
What Are the Accessibility Features of Hersheypark Rides?
Hersheypark strives to accommodate guests with various needs. Here are some general accessibility features:
- Many rides require transfer from wheelchair/ECV
- Specific rules for guests with prosthetic devices
- Restrictions on loose articles and secured items
- Accommodations for guests with certain physical conditions
For example, on Fahrenheit:
– Guests with one prosthetic leg must remove it or provide documentation that it can withstand 5 Gs
– Guests with two prosthetic legs must wear at least one
How Many People Can Ride at Once on Hersheypark Attractions?
While exact capacities aren’t provided for all rides, here are some estimates based on typical coaster designs:
- Large coasters like Candymonium: 24-36 riders per train
- Medium coasters like Fahrenheit: 12-24 riders per train
- Family coasters like Cocoa Cruiser: 8-12 riders per train
Actual capacity may vary based on the number of trains in operation and loading efficiency.
What Safety Measures Are in Place for Hersheypark’s Largest Rides?
Hersheypark prioritizes guest safety with various measures:
- Regular inspections and maintenance
- Height requirements strictly enforced
- Secure restraint systems on all thrill rides
- Trained operators monitoring each ride
- Specific rules for loose articles and secured items
How Do Hersheypark’s Largest Rides Compare to Other Parks?
While Hersheypark offers impressive attractions, here’s how they compare to some world records:
- Tallest coaster: Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure (456 feet) vs. Candymonium (210 feet)
- Fastest coaster: Formula Rossa at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (149 mph) vs. Candymonium (76 mph)
- Longest coaster: Steel Dragon 2000 at Nagashima Spa Land (8,133 feet) vs. Candymonium (4,636 feet)
What Are the Most Unique Features of Hersheypark’s Largest Rides?
Hersheypark’s rides offer several unique elements:
- Fahrenheit: 97-degree first drop
- Storm Runner: 0-72 mph launch in 2 seconds
- Skyrush: Wing seats that extend over the track edges
- Candymonium: Hershey’s Kiss-shaped finale element
In conclusion, Hersheypark offers a wide range of rides varying in size, speed, and thrill level. From the towering Candymonium to the family-friendly Cocoa Cruiser, there’s something for everyone. Understanding the dimensions and requirements of each ride can help visitors plan their visit and make the most of their Hersheypark experience.
References:
1. Hersheypark – Fahrenheit
2. Hersheypark – Candymonium
3. Hershey, PA Stories – Guide to 15 Coasters at Hersheypark