Today marked the beginning of my annual roller coaster road trip. It was my first time visiting Indiana Beach and my first visit to an amusement park since the mask mandates were lifted. Thanks to businessman Gene Staples, who bought the park when Apex was about to close it permanently, I had the opportunity to experience Indiana Beach. Now, let's move on to the trip report.
After stopping at Indiana Beach campground to set up my tent for the night, I proceeded to the park. Due to the rain, the first ride, Lost Coaster of Superstition Mountain, was closed for the day. Nevertheless, I opted to head to the back of the park for my initial rollercoaster experience of the day, enjoying the boardwalk ambiance.
I would like to point out that although some people had mentioned that the place was poorly maintained in the past, I personally found the park to be in good condition. It is possible that the new owner made improvements during the shutdown, but I thought it had a lively atmosphere. Additionally, how many parks still have a fascinating parlor?
First Roller Coaster, Steel Hawg:
This rollercoaster is a S&S El-Loco Roller coaster. It has a 96ft tall hill with a 111 degree steep drop. the ride also has outer banked turns and 2 inversions. It is also the only rollercoaster to go upside down in the park. Overall, the ride was unique and one of a kind. Especially with its shoulder restraints.
Second Rollercoaster: The Tig'rr
The Tig'rr is an intriguing roller coaster located on top of a one-story building. It features two-person cars equipped with seatbelts. Manufactured by Schwarzkopf, this Jet Star model includes a 44-foot tall hill and navigates steeply banked turns at a speed of 31mph. The coaster runs on two-person trains with retractable seatbelts. While the ride had some intense elements, it became a bit shaky in certain sections. Following this experience, I proceeded to the Cornball Express.
Second Rollercoaster: The Cornball Express
The Cornball Express is a distinctive wooden roller coaster that weaves through the Hoosier Hurricane and encircles the Tig'rr roller coaster. Standing at 55 feet tall and reaching speeds of 45mph along its 2100 feet of track, I found the ride to be rather rough and lacking excitement. While it has been praised for offering decent air time in the past, I personally felt the need to brace myself throughout due to its shakiness. Next was the last operating rollercoaster credit, The Hoosier Hurricane.
Final Rollercoaster: The Hoosier Hurricane
Before the night ended, I made sure to experience The Hoosier Hurricane, the final rollercoaster on my list. This ride stands out for its unique layout that takes you along the boardwalk and the water surrounding the park. With a thrilling 95-foot drop and a top speed of 51mph, it quickly became my favorite attraction in the park. While it may not offer incredible air time, the unexpected twists on this ride will definitely make you feel like you're about to be thrown out. And let's not forget the amazing buzz bar restraints!
The rest of the park
After experiencing the Hoosier Hurricane, I made my way to their Log flume ride. The appearance of the splash down water made me feel the urge to sanitize my hands. Following that, I ventured into their Den Of Lost Thieves dark ride. I also had the opportunity to take a river boat tour around the lake encircling Indiana Beach, offering some lovely views of the boardwalk from the water.
Overall
Under its new ownership, Indiana Beach shows great promise. The refurbishment of a Schwarzkoph Triple Loop roller coaster from Mexico is underway, and it will be intriguing to witness its restoration and operation. I will be visiting Adventureland tomorrow and will provide a trip report afterwards.
As always, Keep Coast 'n' and see the pictures below:
Welcome to Indiana Beach, Now On to The Bridge You Go!
Indiana Beach boasts a suspension bridge at one of its entrances, a rare feature in amusement parks! Additionally, the rollercoaster up ahead is the Hoosier Hurricane.
The Lost Coaster of Superstition Mountain is closed for the day, so that's one roller-coaster I wont be riding today.
Steel Hawg is open and there is no wait!
The boardwalk at Indiana Beach creates a pleasant atmosphere, almost giving the impression of being at a seaside amusement park.
Is the ride called Tig'rr like a tiger or Tig'rr like the orange character from Winnie the Pooh?
To the right, the Cornball and Hoosier Hurriances Lift Hills intersect. Many of the attractions at Indiana Beach either run alongside the water or are stacked on top of each other.
Seeing the boardwalk from the water is even more impressive than on land! I am curious about the number of carps swimming in the water.
The new Triple Loop coaster is now in pieces. I wonder if it will be reassembled following the incident in Mexico.
That's everything. Thank you for reading, and now let's move on to Adventureland!
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