Mountain Coasters - A History

Neil Sawford • February 2, 2024

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Mountain Coasters: A History


An Alpine Coaster, also known as a Mountain Coaster, is a roller coaster that uses a bobsled-like car to travel a track usually built on the side of hills. In Germany, this type of coaster was known as Sommerrodelbobahn and was constructed on ski slopes to give a great summer activity.

Unlike a typical roller coaster in Branson, a mountain coaster can reach a length of 17,400 feet and has a high elevation. Glacier 3000 in Gstaad, Switzerland, has the world's tallest Mountain Coaster at the height of 9,747 feet. Mountain Coasters are made by various companies, each with unique features.

The Alpine Slide, which first appeared in the 1970s, was the forerunner of the Mountain Coaster. Josef Wiegand had the vision to create a coaster that would be added to various ski resorts and take advantage of the land's topography. Rather than building a structure to make the elevation change that a traditional coaster would require, he and his Rasdorf-based company, Weigand, installed the first stainless track rather than standard fiberglass or concrete.

Another Austrian manufacturer, Brandauer, would develop their alpine coaster, Summer Toboggan, for Austria's Karkogel Resort in 1996 (before Weigand installed their first).

Wiegand Sports GmbH has had its headquarters in Stevensville, Montana, since 2006 to remain competitive and provide service to their North American consumers. In a 30,000 square foot facility, the engineer, project-manage, and store spare parts and supplies. Manufacturing continues in Rasdorf, Germany, where over 350 people are employed; as of 2016, the Montana plant employs 20 workers.

There are 36 Alpine Coasters in America, the first of which was built in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Alpine Products, a new manufacturer, formed in 2007, went bankrupt in 2010 and was bought by Aquatic Development Group (ADG). Since their purchase, they've partnered with five resorts and become part owners or shareholders. ADG constructed Ober Gatlinburg.

Most mountain coasters are built by ski resorts as an additional year-round attraction or as a seasonal revenue generator during the summer months. All Alpine coaster tracks are designed for easy installation, with low impact on the topsoil and environment. Most tracks are built close to the ground, taking advantage of the terrain's natural incline.

Except for the station, no concrete work is required. Manufacturers build bridges up to 5 meters (16 feet) tall to crossroads, trails, ski slopes, and water crossings. For low maintenance and longevity, tracks are aluminum or stainless steel.

During the voyage on closed-loop rails, there is a lift system. Some ski resort coasters eliminate the long, tiring climb to the top by using their ski lift to transport riders to the top of the course, allowing them to enjoy a more extended one-way downhill run down to the station. Unlike regular roller coasters in Branson, Alpine coasters are always closed-loop coasters.

Thrill components could include varying degrees of curves, dips, and hairpin turns on mountain coasters. Large spiral rings (helixes) are employed for thrills and to a lower height. Alpine coasters can run all year, even during severe weather.

Mountain coasters, also known as alpine coasters, are gravity-driven amusement park rides in which people ride in cars that look like bobsleds and, of course, are built on steep hills or mountains. Unlike regular roller coasters, Mountain coaster cars are designed so that riders may regulate their speed of descent down the mountain. They can even operate in light rain or snowfall. The Branson mountain coaster is the perfect thrill since the Ozarks are full of steep slopes and occasionally uncertain weather forecasts.

Mechanics of the Mountain Coaster

Each sled has one or two seats and is controlled by a hand brake on both sides or a single brake lever in the center. For safety reasons, riders are urged to keep their hands on the brakes at all times. The brake handle is pulled to slow or stop the cart; pressing or letting go of the handle releases the brakes, allowing the coach to accelerate.

Alpine coasters are unique among amusement park rides because the user has complete control over their speed and ride experience. Riders can choose between a slower, more leisurely run or a faster, more exhilarating ride with limited or no braking.

SaFety

Most cars include a centrifugal brake system that limits the rotating speed of the run rollers to restrict the maximum speed. Riders must maintain a safe distance from the riders in front of them as a courtesy. In the event of a collision, each car is fitted with shock-absorbing front and rear bumpers, which occur when riders drive too fast and do not provide enough space for stopping distance. Newer coasters have an anti-collision mechanism that applies the brakes automatically if the rider goes too close to the car ahead.


Unlike the typical roller coaster in Branson, Mountain coaster cars are designed so that riders may regulate their speed of descent down the mountain.

Close-up of a souvenir t-shirt featuring a mountain coaster design
By Neil Sawford August 29, 2025
When you visit Branson with your family to enjoy a wonderful vacation, don't pass up the opportunity to shop at some of the best shopping locations. Branson shoppers will find everything on their shopping lists, from specialty shops to department stores. If you've had an exciting ride on the roller coasters in Branson, MO, the next thing you should do is go shopping at some of the shopping malls listed below. Branson Landing Branson Landing, the Midwest's shoppers' paradise, is one of the most visited shopping destinations, offering almost everything you need for your holiday shopping in Branson. This fantastic shopping destination is home to the famous Belk Department Store, which provides a wide range of clothing and accessories. It also has Bass Pro Shop, which has everything you need for outdoor adventures. Branson Landing, a center for great shopping and dining opportunities located between Lake Taneycomo and historic downtown Branson, is one of the most visited attractions in town. The easily walkable Branson Landing is less than a mile long. It features a lakeside boardwalk, an open-air promenade, and more than 100 retail shops and fine restaurants. Shopping is the ideal activity after a thrilling adventure ride on the roller coasters in Branson, MO. Historic Downtown Branson Historic Downtown Branson's famous shopping destination is a short walk from Branson Landing. Shopping in Historic Downtown Branson can undoubtedly relieve the stress of visitors who are having a great time touring the many exciting places in this vacation paradise. You will enjoy what Branson offers as you walk through the beautiful streets, old buildings, and nostalgic themed shops in downtown Branson. You can see the beginnings of Branson in the Ozarks in Historic Downtown Branson. But there's more to Branson than just reminiscing. With many shops and dozens of exciting attractions for people of all ages, this neighborhood transforms into a thriving complex full of exciting activities. Whether you're looking for gourmet foods, baked goods, or original art, the historic downtown Branson has it all. There are many fine restaurants and eateries in the historic downtown Branson, a time-enhanced exciting location. Branson Craft Mall Visit the Branson Craft Mall for a retail market that focuses on the unique and original. The Branson Craft Mall, lined with vendors and specialty craft goods, is also home to the famous Pickin' Porch Grill. You won't leave hungry with a diverse menu that includes House-Smoked BBQ, sandwiches, wings, and even tacos. For an after-meal treat, take a stroll down the candy aisle. Branson Craft Mall is a fantastic shopping destination where you can buy unique arts and crafts and enjoy a delicious dining experience at some of the finest restaurants. This expansive 160,000-square-foot craft mall offers visitors one-stop shopping from over 200 vendors, artists, and crafters. Many of these vendors sell clothing, quilts, leather goods, jewelry, rugs, baskets, pottery, and other items. The Shoppes at Branson Meadows The Shoppes at Branson Meadows provides a wide range of shopping experiences. Shepherd Hills Cutlery, Tuesday Morning, Neil's Home Store, the Consignment Clothing Exchange, Touch of Class Boutique, Made in the USA, and more are all worth a visit! Visit Branson's 1984 Arcade for a nostalgic and rejuvenating break. The Shoppes at Branson Meadows offers discounted local brands, chic home goods, and one-of-a-kind clothing. This shopping spot is a treasure trove of housewares and other household goods. Grand Village Shops Over 25 distinguished novelty stores can be found at Grand Village Shops. With each offering its distinct originality, you're sure to leave with a perfect memory of your time in Branson. The Grand Village Shops are an excellent place to find a meaningful gift for everyone on your list. With the diversity of shops, there is something for everyone in this great shopping spot in Branson. While shopping in this fascinating place, you'll see singing waiters entertain shoppers. At the same time, they enjoy diner-style food and tasty ice cream from the soda fountain at Mel's Hard Luck Diner. Tanger Outlet Mall No shopping spree in Branson is complete without a trip to Tanger Outlets. You will find well-known brands at a discounted price at this unique shopping location. Tanger Outlets is located inside Branson's Entertainment District and offers extended shopping hours and great discounts to reward members. Tanger Outlets have everything that you need and even hard-to-find items. Conveniently located on Highway 76 West, the fully stocked mall offers discounts for favorite name brands such as Gap, Levi's, Polo Ralph Lauren, J. Crew, and much more. When looking for great shopping spots to shop and adventure after an exciting ride on the roller coasters in Branson, MO , don't forget to check out the shopping malls listed above.
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