This August, Steamboat Resort in Steamboat Springs will finally be unveiling the Outlaw Mountain Coaster — the longest mountain coaster in North America. Descending more than 400 vertical feet with a length of 6,280 linear feet, the Outlaw will rise up to 40 feet off the ground and feature dips, turns, waves and 360-degree circles — not a ride for the faint-hearted.
Expected to run year-round during resort operation times (even during night skiing hours in the winter), the Outlaw will be located near the Christie Peak Express lift at the resort and includes a loop that brings riders from the base to the top before they journey down the mountain. Riders will get to use a “sled” on a tubular stainless-steel rail system that they can ride alone or with a buddy and can control their own speed with state-of-the-art brake technology.
So what’s the scariest part of the mountain coaster?
“The speed,” Nicole Miller, digital communications manager for the resort, said.
Although riders can slow themselves down if they need to, mountain coasters are completely gravity-driven — making it a high-speed journey down the mountain with no stopping.
Riders must be at least 54” to ride alone and 38” to ride with a partner who’s over 16 years old and more than 54″ tall. Tickets are $20 for your first ride and $15 for your second if you choose to go twice on the same day.
In addition to the Outlaw Mountain Coaster, Steamboat Resort is also scheduled to open a brand new gondola and bike park on Friday, July 21 and recently opened additions to the Coca-Cola Adventure Zone including a mini-golf course on Friday, June 30.
The reason for all the excitement is largely in part to keep Steamboat’s tourism bustling all year long.
“Bringing more attractions to the base area and on the mountain are steps to keep Steamboat at the forefront of year-round vacation destinations,” Miller said.
And it’s fun for the whole family — even if you’re not a skier or snowboarder.
“From adventure seekers cruising downhill trails in the Steamboat Bike Park, to toddlers building sandcastles on the Burgess Creek beach, Steamboat is a place where guests of all ages can spend the day,” she said.
To find out more, visit Steamboat Resort’s website.