Excalibur, located at ValleyFair in Shakopee, Minnesota, is a hybrid roller coaster combining the excitement of wooden supports with a steel track design. Debuting in 1989, this coaster was constructed by Arrow Dynamics, a renowned manufacturer known for unique coaster designs. Excalibur has been a staple of the park’s lineup for decades, offering a thrilling experience for guests who seek a blend of speed, airtime, and vintage coaster elements.
Design and Layout
Unlike traditional wooden coasters, Excalibur's track is made entirely of steel, but it retains the rustic aesthetic with its wooden support structure. The coaster features a custom layout, reaching a height of 105 feet and plunging riders down an initial 105-foot drop at a steep angle. With a top speed of 54 mph, Excalibur winds through a series of airtime hills, overbanked turns, and quick transitions. Its out-and-back layout gives riders the sensation of racing through a dense forest, adding to the ride's mystique.
Theming and Ride Experience
Named after the legendary sword of King Arthur, Excalibur's theme leans into the medieval fantasy lore, evoking images of knights, castles, and epic quests. While the ride itself doesn’t have elaborate theming, the name and atmosphere provide an adventurous undertone that makes the experience feel like a daring quest. Riders experience several moments of zero-G airtime as the coaster dips and rises over its hills, along with lateral forces that keep them gripping their seats.
Ride Features and Notable Elements
- Lift Hill and First Drop: Excalibur starts with a traditional chain lift hill, providing a great view of the park and surrounding area. The initial drop is a highlight, diving steeply into the wooded terrain below.
- Camelback Hills: Following the first drop, a series of camelback hills deliver several bursts of airtime, giving a weightless sensation as riders crest each peak.
- Overbanked Turns: The ride features overbanked turns, which tilt riders beyond the 90-degree mark, creating a thrilling sensation of being thrown outward.
- Twisting Finale: Excalibur’s final sequence includes a series of quick direction changes and smaller drops that give a powerful ending to the experience.
Excalibur’s Legacy
Excalibur has stood the test of time, remaining a favorite among coaster enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. While it’s not the tallest or fastest coaster at ValleyFair, its hybrid design and nostalgic charm have solidified its status as a classic. Over the years, ValleyFair has made several improvements to keep Excalibur running smoothly, including trackwork and maintenance, ensuring it continues to deliver thrills for future generations.
Future of Excalibur
As one of the few remaining coasters of its kind, Excalibur’s future is always a topic of discussion among fans. While ValleyFair has introduced modern coasters to its lineup, Excalibur’s unique ride experience and classic design are irreplaceable. Preservation efforts and ongoing maintenance suggest that Excalibur will continue to enchant riders, standing as a testament to a bygone era of coaster design.
Excalibur at ValleyFair is more than just a roller coaster—it’s a journey back in time, combining elements of classic wooden coasters with the smoothness of steel. Its unique layout, thrilling airtime hills, and distinctive setting in the wooded area of the park make it a must-ride for any coaster enthusiast visiting ValleyFair. As it celebrates over 30 years of operation, Excalibur continues to be a beloved attraction, carrying forward the legacy of thrilling, old-school coaster experiences.