The History of Mountain Coasters

Neil Sawford • October 12, 2022

Mountain coasters are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, which is no surprise as they are a great outdoor activity in which the whole family can participate. Also known as alpine coasters, these rides are typically located in mountainous areas such as ski resorts. Riders sit in a cart that resembles a bobsled and is attached to a fixed track. Just like the mountain coaster in Branson, it uses the natural elevation of the area and gravity to transport riders down the mountain.

The mountain coaster, just like the first invented roller coaster in the 1800s, is powered by gravity, and it only ascends with the help of the pulley or using mules as what was done during the first invention of the coaster. Mountain coasters have a unique feature; unlike traditional roller coasters, they feature a manual brake that allows riders to control the speed of their descent. As a rider, this means you have complete control over your experience.

The Mountain coaster in Branson has been around since 1996 and has been changing how people have fun. Let's see some of the mountain coasters' history and unique characteristics so you can learn before you try and enjoy the fun you want to experience.

Mountain Coasters: The Inspiration

A German company built the first mountain coaster (also known as an alpine coaster) in Austria in 1996. The popularity of bobsled coasters inspired the mountain coasters, but instead of a trough for the track, they chose rails. Brandauer is still known for its single-tube aluminum design, and its alpine coasters can be found in Alps towns.

A German company built the first mountain coaster (also known as an alpine coaster) in Austria in 1996. The popularity of bobsled coasters inspired them, but instead of a trough for the track, they chose rails. Brandauer is still known for its single-tube aluminum design, and its alpine coasters can be found in Alps towns.

Variations of the Mountain Coaster

While the original Brandauer design used a monorail-style track, some mountain coasters used a double-track system similar to a roller coaster. Alpine coasters, single or double-track, are helpful in mountainous areas because their design allows them to operate year-round without being hampered by snow or ice.

Benefits of a Mountain Coaster

Mountain coasters are not only exciting, but they also provide riders with an interactive experience. Riders can control their speed with a lever brake system on their cart, but anti-collision measures are still in place to prevent dangerous riding.

The World's Longest Mountain Coaster

Mountain coasters can have a wide range of lengths. The original mountain coaster, which debuted in 1996, measured 6,496 feet in length. As recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records, the world's longest mountain coaster is now 17,400 feet long! It is located near Sant Julià de Lria, Andorra, at the Naturlandia resort.

If you've been aware of all the exciting new things happening in Branson, Missouri, the Live Entertainment Capital of the Midwest, you've probably heard about a unique new attraction - the mountain coaster!

This thrilling ride, called The Runaway at Branson Mountain Adventure Park, will join others like it in Colorado, South Dakota, and the East Coast. It is the Midwestern United States' only mountain coaster. So, what is a mountain coaster, and why are they so popular? Continue reading to find out more!

Mountain coasters are gravity-driven amusement park rides in which passengers are seated in cars resembling bobsleds - and they are, of course, installed on mountains or hills with steep grades. Mountain coaster cars, unlike traditional roller coasters, are designed so that passengers can control their speed of descent down the mountain. They can also operate in light rain or snowfall. The Mountain Coaster is the ultimate ride because the Ozarks are full of steep hills and sometimes unpredictable weather forecasts.

Like all alpine coasters, the mountain coaster in Branson has its origins in Europe. The first mountain coaster was built in 1997 by a German company (that also installed the first stainless steel track for the alpine slide) under the trademark 'Alpine Coaster.' It was inspired by the idea of coasters for ski resorts that would utilize the land's natural topography and provide a year-round or off-season attraction for European ski resorts.

You can find some of Europe's most famous mountain coasters in Germany, Hungary, Austria, Switzerland, and San Candido, Italy. Mountain coasters are rapidly gaining popularity in the United States due to their relatively simple construction, as the tracks are made of stainless steel and aluminum, providing maximum stability and durability while low maintenance.

Every mountain and alpine coaster has a manual brake that allows the driver to control the speed of their descent. This brake is optional and should only be used if the rider needs to slow down. The mountain coaster in Branson will continue a long tradition of steep and thrilling family fun, so don't miss out on a ride on The Runaway Mountain Coaster at Branson Mountain Adventure Park.

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Close-up of a souvenir t-shirt featuring a mountain coaster design

Shop & Adventure in Branson

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.