Runaway Mine Train
Specific Type: Powered Coaster
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Alton Towers was opened as early as 1860, but as a garden. It wasn’t until the 1980’s that they developed a theme park on the site. Runaway Mine Train, installed in 1992, is Alton Towers oldest roller coaster. It was designed by Mach Rides as a custom powered coaster to be fun for the whole family. The train looks like a mine train with a steam locomotive engine as the lead car. The coaster operates by using a “hot” third rail in the center of the track. The train follows a short 1000 foot long track but the train usually completes two circuits for each ride cycle, however on quiet days they will sometimes allow the train to make three or more circuits.
The ride starts with an “S” curve followed by two small bunny hops. The train then maneuvers through a figure eight set of helices. The first sends riders around to the left and then to the right. The second helix goes through a tunnel that is shared by the Congo River Rapids boat ride. The two rides run opposing to each other the effect increases the sensation of speed for rides on both attractions. Once out of the tunnel the ride continues to parallel the river ride. It then curves away and flies back though the station going into its second lap. The Runaway Mine Train may not be the most thrilling coaster in the park but it offers guests a chance to share a classic theme park staple a mine train coaster. |
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