Dollywood building world’s first launched wooden coaster
By amusementtoday | August 8, 2015
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Themed after a tricked out 1950s-era hot rod, Lightning Rod will launch riders from zero to 45 mph more than 20 stories up its lift hill to one of the ride’s first airtime moments. At the crest of the hill, riders will face twin summit airtime hills before tackling the daring first drop. Lightning Rod then races down the 165-foot drop propelling guests along its 3,800-ft. track to a top speed of 73 mph, the fastest speed for a wood coaster in the world.
Located in Dollywood’s Jukebox Junction, Lightning Rod will rocket riders around its massive wooden structure on an adrenaline-charged lap through the trees in the hills and valleys surrounding Dollywood. During the ride, guests will experience nearly 20 seconds of airtime. The coaster train will be comprised of 12 cars, carrying two passengers each, for a total of 24 people per train.
