Hersheypark has unveiled the custom train for its new Wildcat’s Revenge wood and steel hybrid coaster, due to open in summer 2023.
Manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC), the coaster will have three custom trains, with the “design first” revealed at IAAPA Expo 2022.
These trains will feature 3D wildcats in black, charcoal and silver. According to a press release, they are “exacting revenge on their wooden predecessor”.
The original Wildcat coaster was purchased by Hersheypark founder Milton S. Hershey in 1923. It was the first coaster at the park. Wildcat’s Revenge is opening in 2023, 100 years after the original attraction debuted.
Wood and steel coaster to open in 2023
Wildcat’s Revenge will have a new steel track added to the existing wooden framework. The park is also renovating the coaster station to include nods to the 1923 station.
One of 15 coasters at Hersheypark, Wildcat’s Revenge will be the first hybrid coaster at the theme park in Pennsylvania and the first RMC in the state.
Riders will climb a 140-foot hill and plunge into an 82-degree drop. The coaster will offer speeds of up to 62 mph along 3,510 feet of red track. Highlights include four inversions, including the world’s largest underflip.
“Based on our guest feedback, we knew coaster fans would love a hybrid at Hersheypark – and we’re thrilled to work with RMC on a custom wood and steel coaster with a nod to our history,” said Vikki Hultquist, general manager of attractions at Hersheypark.
Construction is already underway on the new coaster. On 9 November, the first piece of red steel track was lifted into place on top of the wooden structure.
Hersheypark has more than 50 rides, as well as a water park and zoo. In 2020, the $150m Hershey’s Chocolatetown expansion opened to guests. The area features Candymonium, the park’s tallest, fastest and longest coaster.
Following its summer 2023 debut, Wildcat’s Revenge will be open during all four seasons, depending on the weather.
Images: Hersheypark
