Alpine energy, Midwest madness–these coasters are off the rails

There’s something wildly satisfying about zipping down a mountain on a coaster that doesn’t need loops or corkscrews to earn its screams. Alpine coasters and slides have carved their way into the Midwest’s hilly areas, offering scenic, gravity-powered fun with a side of wind-whipped hair.

These rides are equal parts adventure and nostalgia, combining coaster-style curves with the freedom to go full throttle or pump the brakes.

Alpine slides are the retro ride of the bunch: smooth concrete or fiberglass tracks where riders descend on wheeled sleds using a hand brake to control speed. They're summer camp meets speedway, minus the helmet hair.

Alpine coasters, meanwhile, are the high-tech cousins. Built on elevated rails, these coasters haul riders to the top of a mountain (usually by cable) before letting gravity take over. Each cart is equipped with hand brakes, allowing thrill levels to be entirely up to the individual rider. No two runs are the same–unless, of course, someone’s determined to beat their own record.

Once at the top, the laws of physics do the heavy lifting as coasters snake through hillsides, wooded trails, and sharp curves. Most operate year-round, making them just as entertaining in a sweatshirt as they are in shorts.

Slides tend to stick to warmer months, but they make up for it with sunshine, sweeping views, and that classic whir of wheels on track.

Where the Midwest (and Nearby) Rides

From blufftop slides to Smoky Mountain screamers, there’s no shortage of scenic coasting.

Illinois

• Chestnut Mountain Alpine Slide (Galena): A longtime favorite, this 2,050-foot slide offers a riverfront view and enough twists to keep things interesting.
  
  

• Aerie’s Alpine Coaster (Grafton): Illinois’ first alpine coaster, perched above the junction of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, brings big views and even bigger thrills.

Tennessee

• Rocky Top Mountain Coaster (Pigeon Forge): With four lift hills, tunnels, and over 3,800 feet of track, this one’s built for repeat rides.
  
  

• Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster (Pigeon Forge): Stretching more than a mile, this coaster offers nighttime rides lit by LEDs and wide-open Smoky Mountain views.
  
  

• Moonshine Mountain Coaster (Gatlinburg): A smooth ride and a playful name, it’s a standout among Gatlinburg’s many coasters.

• Ripley’s Mountain Coaster (Gatlinburg): Part of the iconic Ripley’s lineup and a fast, scenic glide through the forested hills.
  
  

• Tennessee Flyer at Ober Mountain (Gatlinburg): Nestled at the top of the mountain resort, this newcomer brings charm, speed, and sky-high views.
  
  

• Wild Stallion Coaster (SkyLand Ranch, Sevierville): The longest mountain coaster in the Southeast, clocking in at over a mile of track.
  
  

• Rail Runner at Anakeesta (Gatlinburg): A unique single-rail design hugs the mountain, offering tree-top views from start to finish.

Missouri

• Copperhead Mountain Coaster (Branson): Missouri’s first alpine coaster snakes through the Ozarks with smooth turns and big views.
  
  

• Runaway Mountain Coaster (Branson Mountain Adventure Park): Over 5,000 feet of wooded thrills, with enough dips and curves to keep hearts racing.
  
  

• The Branson Coaster (Branson): A rare two-stage coaster that lets riders go back up without ever leaving the cart. Lazy or legendary? Both.

Sweeping views, winding tracks, and a healthy dose of gravity-fueled fun, alpine coasters and slides are turning Midwest hillsides into must-ride playgrounds. Whether tackling the track at top speed or taking the scenic route, these rides prove that going downhill has never been more fun.