ALPINE COASTERS

a.k.a Mountain Coasters

Smoky Mountain Coaster
Smoky Mountain Coaster in Tennessee, USA.

Alpine Coasters (or Mountain Coasters) are similar to and inspired by Bobsled Coasters, but they use rails instead of a trough to form the track. The use of rails means the rides can operate all year round, replicating traditional ice-formed bobsleds. Alpine Coaster sleds are safely attached to the track similarly to roller coaster trains, using side friction and up-stop wheels. Alpine Coasters either have a double rail system, similar to a roller coaster, or a singular rail like a monorail. Unlike a roller coaster, riders control the speed of the sled using brake levers, although anti-collision and other safety systems prevent dangerous riding. Riders feel exposed on an Alpine Coaster, which can create a heightened sense of speed and intensity.

The Original

BRANDAUER ALPINE COASTER

The first Alpine Coaster to open in 1996 was created by German manufacturer Brandauer at the Karkogel Resort in Austria. The ride, Sommerrodelbahn, is 36,512 feet (1,133 m) above sea level and travels down 6,496 feet (1,980 m) of track into a valley while traversing through fast turns, steep slants and tunnels at a speedy 19 mph (30 km/h). Brandauer Alpine Coasters are recognized by their monorail tracks made from aluminum. In 2019 Sunkid acquired Brandauer, boosting installations to over 60 Alpine Coasters that are mostly found in Europe.

Examples:

Sunkid GmbH
Industriezone 39
6460 Gemeinde Imst Austria
Tel: +43 5412 68131 email: [email protected] Website

Poletno Sankanje Straža Bled
Poletno Sankanje at Straža Bled in Slovenia.