The Trailblazer roller coaster at Hersheypark is a family-friendly attraction known for its moderate speed and gentle thrills. While not the fastest coaster in the park, it offers an exciting experience for riders of various ages. The maximum speed of Trailblazer is reported to be between 35-45 mph, depending on the source. This mine train coaster features a chain lift hill, multiple helixes, and a ride duration of approximately 1 minute and 15 seconds, making it an enjoyable introduction to roller coasters for younger guests.
What is the Exact Speed of Trailblazer?
The speed of Trailblazer at Hersheypark is a subject of slight variation among different sources:
- Most consistent reports indicate a maximum speed of 35 mph
- Some sources mention a higher speed of 45 mph
To put this into perspective, let’s compare Trailblazer’s speed to other coasters at Hersheypark:
| Roller Coaster | Maximum Speed |
|---|---|
| Trailblazer | 35-45 mph |
| Storm Runner | 72 mph |
| Fahrenheit | 58 mph |
| Candymonium | 76 mph |
As we can see, Trailblazer is one of the slower coasters in the park, which contributes to its family-friendly appeal.
How Does Trailblazer’s Speed Affect the Ride Experience?
The moderate speed of Trailblazer contributes to a unique ride experience:
- Gradual acceleration: The chain lift hill slowly builds anticipation as riders ascend.
- Smooth helixes: The four-circle helix provides a thrilling sensation without excessive speed.
- Manageable forces: The speed allows for enjoyable g-forces without being too intense for younger riders.
- Extended ride time: At 1 minute and 15 seconds, the ride offers a longer experience compared to some faster coasters.
What Are the Key Features of Trailblazer’s Design?
Trailblazer’s design incorporates several elements that complement its speed:
- Chain lift hill: Provides a steady climb to the ride’s highest point
- Four-circle helix: A signature element that offers extended turns at moderate speeds
- Mid-course brake run: Allows for speed control and pacing of the ride
- Double helix: Adds additional turning thrills before the final brake run
These features work together to create a ride that’s exciting yet accessible for a wide range of guests.
How Does Trailblazer’s Speed Compare to Other Family Coasters?
While Trailblazer’s speed of 35-45 mph may seem modest compared to high-thrill coasters, it’s quite typical for family-oriented mine train coasters. Here’s how it compares to similar rides at other parks:
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Disney Parks): 30-35 mph
- Expedition Everest (Disney’s Animal Kingdom): 50 mph
- Thunderation (Silver Dollar City): 48 mph
Trailblazer’s speed places it comfortably within the range of popular family coasters, offering enough excitement without being too intimidating for younger or less experienced riders.
What Safety Measures Are in Place Given Trailblazer’s Speed?
Despite its moderate speed, Trailblazer incorporates several safety features:
- Height requirement of 36-42 inches (KISSES category)
- Individual lap bars for each seat (added in 2003)
- Regular maintenance and inspections
- Trained operators monitoring the ride
These measures ensure that riders can enjoy the experience safely, regardless of the coaster’s speed.
How Has Trailblazer’s Speed Influenced Its Popularity?
Trailblazer’s moderate speed has contributed to its enduring popularity at Hersheypark:
- Accessible to a wide age range
- Serves as a “stepping stone” to faster coasters
- Provides a nostalgic experience for returning visitors
- Offers a balanced thrill level for families riding together
The coaster’s speed, combined with its classic design, has helped maintain its status as a beloved attraction since its opening in 1974.
What Technical Specifications Contribute to Trailblazer’s Speed?
Several technical aspects of Trailblazer’s design influence its speed:
- Track length: Approximately 1,780 feet
- Height: 50 feet at its highest point
- Train design: Originally built by Arrow Development, with new trains from Premier Rides in 2003
- Track layout: Combination of drops, helixes, and straightaways
These specifications work together to create a ride that reaches speeds of 35-45 mph while maintaining a smooth and enjoyable experience.
How Does Weather Affect Trailblazer’s Speed?
While the maximum speed of Trailblazer is consistent, various factors can slightly influence the actual speed during operation:
- Temperature: Cooler temperatures may result in slightly faster runs due to reduced friction
- Humidity: High humidity can affect track conditions and potentially slow the ride marginally
- Wind: Strong headwinds could minimally impact speed on exposed sections of the track
- Rain: Light rain may not affect speed, but heavy rain could lead to temporary closure for safety
It’s important to note that these factors typically have minimal impact on the overall ride experience and speed.
What Future Changes Might Affect Trailblazer’s Speed?
While there are no current plans to modify Trailblazer’s speed, potential future enhancements could include:
- Track refurbishment to reduce friction and potentially increase speed slightly
- Train upgrades that could affect weight and aerodynamics
- Adjustments to the lift hill mechanism for more efficient acceleration
Any changes would likely be minor to preserve the ride’s family-friendly nature and maintain its current speed range of 35-45 mph.
In conclusion, Trailblazer’s speed of 35-45 mph at Hershey Park positions it as an ideal family coaster, offering enough excitement for thrill-seekers while remaining accessible to younger riders. Its moderate speed, combined with unique design elements like the four-circle helix, contributes to a memorable and enjoyable experience for visitors to Hersheypark.