The Sidewinder at Hershey Park, now known as Jolly Rancher Remix, is a thrilling steel shuttle coaster manufactured by Vekoma. This boomerang-style ride stands 116.5 feet tall, reaches speeds of 47 mph, and features three inversions that riders experience twice – once forward and once backward. With its recent retheme, the Sidewinder now offers a unique sensory experience, combining the excitement of a roller coaster with the sweet scents of Jolly Rancher candies.
What Are the Key Specifications of the Sidewinder?
The Sidewinder boasts impressive specifications that contribute to its thrilling experience:
- Height: 116.5 feet
- Top Speed: 47 mph
- Length: 935 feet
- Track Inversions: 3
- Rider Inversions: 6
- Duration: 1 minute 48 seconds
- G-Force: 5.2
- Hourly Capacity: 760 riders per hour
These specifications make the Sidewinder a formidable attraction at Hershey Park, offering a compact yet intense ride experience.
How Does the Ride Experience Unfold?
The Sidewinder’s ride experience is unique and exhilarating:
- Initial Ascent: The ride begins with a backward lift up to 116.5 feet.
- First Drop: Riders plummet through the station into the main course.
- Forward Run: The train navigates through a vertical loop and a cobra roll.
- Second Ascent: A second lift hill brings riders up 116.5 feet facing forward.
- Backward Run: The entire course is traversed again, but in reverse.
- Finale: The ride concludes back at the station.
As part of its retheming to Jolly Rancher Remix, a tunnel was added that releases different Jolly Rancher scents during each ride, enhancing the sensory experience.
What Are the Height and Safety Requirements?
Safety is paramount on the Sidewinder. Here are the key requirements:
- Minimum Height: 48 inches
- Wheelchair Access: Riders must transfer from wheelchairs or ECVs
- Prosthetic Devices: Specific guidelines apply, including manufacturer documentation for G-force tolerance
- Personal Items: No hand-held items, food, or drinks permitted
These requirements ensure rider safety while maintaining the integrity of the ride experience.
How Does the Propulsion System Work?
The Sidewinder utilizes two distinct propulsion methods:
- Catch Car Lift Hill: This system pulls the train backward up the initial 116.5-foot ascent.
- Chain Lift Hill: A traditional chain lift is used for the forward ascent later in the ride.
This dual-propulsion system allows for the unique forward and backward experiences that define the boomerang coaster style.
What Makes the Sidewinder Unique Among Hershey Park Attractions?
Several factors contribute to the Sidewinder’s uniqueness:
- Boomerang Layout: One of the few coasters where riders experience the track both forward and backward.
- Compact Footprint: Delivers intense thrills in a relatively small space.
- Sensory Experience: The Jolly Rancher retheme adds olfactory stimulation to the physical thrills.
- High G-Forces: At 5.2 Gs, it’s one of the more intense experiences in the park.
These features make the Sidewinder a standout attraction that appeals to thrill-seekers and candy enthusiasts alike.
How Has the Retheming Affected the Ride Experience?
The transformation into Jolly Rancher Remix has significantly enhanced the ride:
- Visual Appeal: New color scheme and theming elements added.
- Scent Integration: A tunnel with changing Jolly Rancher scents installed.
- Marketing Appeal: Increased attraction for candy lovers and families.
- Sensory Immersion: The addition of scents creates a more immersive experience.
This retheming has breathed new life into the classic Boomerang coaster design, making it a must-ride attraction at Hershey Park.
What Should Riders Know Before Experiencing the Sidewinder?
Preparation is key for enjoying the Sidewinder:
- Intensity Level: Be prepared for high speeds and multiple inversions.
- Seating Arrangement: Seats are arranged in rows of two.
- Ride Duration: The experience lasts approximately 1 minute 48 seconds.
- Physical Demands: Riders should be in good physical condition due to G-forces.
- Personal Items: Secure loose articles in designated areas before riding.
Understanding these factors can help riders maximize their enjoyment and ensure a safe experience.
How Does the Sidewinder Compare to Other Hershey Park Coasters?
While Hershey Park boasts numerous coasters, the Sidewinder stands out:
| Feature | Sidewinder | Storm Runner | Great Bear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Steel Shuttle | Launched Coaster | Inverted Coaster |
| Height | 116.5 ft | 150 ft | 90 ft |
| Speed | 47 mph | 75 mph | 61 mph |
| Inversions | 3 (6 for riders) | 3 | 4 |
The Sidewinder offers a unique combination of compact thrills and sensory experiences that set it apart from its coaster counterparts in the park.
What Are the Best Times to Ride the Sidewinder?
While specific wait time data isn’t available, general theme park trends suggest:
- Early Morning: Right after park opening for shortest lines.
- Late Evening: Often sees reduced wait times as families with young children leave.
- Weekdays: Typically less crowded than weekends.
- Off-Season: Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for reduced crowds.
For the most accurate wait times, it’s recommended to check the Hershey Park app or website on the day of your visit.
The Sidewinder at Hershey Park, now Jolly Rancher Remix, offers a thrilling and unique coaster experience. Its compact layout, intense inversions, and innovative sensory elements make it a must-ride attraction for coaster enthusiasts and casual park-goers alike. Whether you’re drawn by the high-speed thrills or the sweet scents of Jolly Rancher candies, this reimagined classic is sure to leave a lasting impression on your Hershey Park visit.
References:
1. https://coasterpedia.net/wiki/Jolly_Rancher_Remix
2. https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/rides/storm-runner/
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hersheypark_attractions