The Great Bear roller coaster at Hersheypark is currently closed for the winter season. This closure is part of the park’s annual maintenance schedule, which began after the final rides on November 3, 2024. The ride, along with other major attractions, will undergo extensive inspections and repairs to ensure safety and optimal performance for the upcoming operating season. Visitors should expect the Great Bear to reopen with the park in late March 2025.
Why Is the Great Bear at Hershey Park Closed?
The Great Bear at Hersheypark is closed due to several factors:
- Seasonal closure: Hersheypark operates on a seasonal schedule, with reduced operations during winter months.
- Annual maintenance: The park conducts thorough inspections and repairs on all attractions during the off-season.
- Weather considerations: Colder temperatures and winter conditions make it impractical to operate certain rides.
- Safety precautions: The closure allows for comprehensive safety checks and upgrades.
When Did the Great Bear Close for the Season?
The Great Bear gave its final rides for the 2024 operating season on November 3, 2024. This date marked the end of regular operations for several major coasters at Hersheypark, including:
- Great Bear
- Candymonium
- Skyrush
- Storm Runner
The closure aligns with the park’s transition to its winter events schedule, which includes Hersheypark Halloween and Christmas Candylane.
What Is the Expected Reopening Date for the Great Bear?
While an exact reopening date for the Great Bear has not been announced, it is expected to follow the general park reopening schedule. Here’s what we know:
- Hersheypark typically reopens for its new operating season in late March.
- The 2025 operating season is set to begin on March 29, 2025.
- Major attractions like the Great Bear usually open with the park, barring any unforeseen maintenance issues.
Visitors planning trips in early spring should check the Hersheypark website or app for the most up-to-date information on ride availability.
What Maintenance Work Is Being Done on the Great Bear?
During the winter closure, the Great Bear undergoes extensive maintenance to ensure its safety and performance. The maintenance process includes:
- Disassembly of key components
- Thorough inspection of all parts
- Repainting of track and support structures
- Replacement of worn parts
- Reassembly and testing
This meticulous process is part of Hersheypark’s commitment to guest safety and ride quality. The maintenance team works diligently from January through March to prepare all attractions for the new season.
Are There Alternative Attractions Available During the Great Bear’s Closure?
While the Great Bear is closed, visitors to Hersheypark still have numerous options for entertainment:
Winter Events
- Hersheypark Halloween (select dates in October)
- Christmas Candylane (select dates from November to January)
Open Attractions
During winter events, a selection of rides remains operational, weather permitting. These may include:
- Certain family rides
- Select thrill rides
- Seasonal attractions (e.g., holiday light displays)
Non-Ride Activities
- ZooAmerica (adjacent wildlife park, open year-round)
- Hershey’s Chocolate World (located near the park entrance)
- Seasonal shows and entertainment
Visitors should consult the Hersheypark website or app for specific attraction availability during their visit.
How Does the Great Bear’s Closure Impact Park Accessibility?
The closure of the Great Bear does not significantly impact overall park accessibility. However, visitors should be aware of the following:
- Reduced ride options during winter months
- Potential for weather-related closures of other attractions
- Modified park hours and operating schedules
Hersheypark continues to offer accommodations for guests with disabilities, including:
- Ride accessibility program
- Boarding pass system for select attractions
- Wheelchair rentals
- Service animal policies
These services remain available even when major attractions like the Great Bear are closed for the season.
What Can Visitors Expect When the Great Bear Reopens?
When the Great Bear reopens for the 2025 season, visitors can look forward to:
- A freshly maintained and inspected ride experience
- Potential upgrades or enhancements made during the off-season
- The return of Hersheypark’s iconic inverted coaster thrills
Great Bear Quick Facts:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Inverted steel coaster |
| Height | 124 feet |
| Speed | 61 mph |
| Track Length | 2,800 feet |
| Inversions | 4 |
| Opening Year | 1998 |
Enthusiasts and casual park-goers alike will be eager to experience the Great Bear’s smooth inversions and high-speed turns after its winter hiatus.
How Can Visitors Stay Informed About the Great Bear’s Status?
To stay updated on the Great Bear’s status and reopening:
- Follow Hersheypark’s official social media accounts
- Check the Hersheypark website regularly
- Download and use the Hersheypark mobile app
- Sign up for Hersheypark’s email newsletter
These resources provide the most current information on ride availability, park hours, and special events.
The temporary closure of the Great Bear at Hershey Park is a normal part of the park’s annual operations. While it may disappoint some visitors during the winter months, the closure ensures that the ride will be in top condition for the upcoming season. Guests planning visits during the closure period can still enjoy a variety of winter-themed events and attractions, making Hersheypark a year-round destination for family fun and entertainment.
References:
– https://stories.hersheypa.com/photos-hersheypark-2024-off-season-maintenance/
– https://stories.hersheypa.com/last-fall-coaster-rides-of-2024-at-hersheypark/
– https://www.hersheypark.com/info/hours/