Goliath at Six Flags Great America is a record-breaking wooden roller coaster known for its extreme speed, towering height, and exhilarating elements. Standing at 165 feet tall, it once held records for being the world’s fastest (72 mph) and steepest (85-degree drop) wooden coaster. The ride begins with a thrilling vertical drop, propelling riders through intense twists, turns, and two inversions, including a 180-degree zero-gravity stall. Goliath's combination of wooden coaster tradition with modern, smooth track design delivers a high-speed, adrenaline-pumping experience that appeals to both thrill-seekers and coaster enthusiasts.
Goliath at Six Flags Great America is an exciting ride for several reasons:
- Steep Vertical Drop: The ride starts with an 85-degree drop, one of the steepest for a wooden coaster. This near-vertical plunge creates a stomach-churning sensation and sets the tone for the rest of the ride.
- Incredible Speed: Goliath reaches speeds of up to 72 mph, making it one of the fastest wooden coasters in the world. The sensation of speed is enhanced by the open wooden track design, amplifying the feeling of flying through the air.
- Smooth, Modern Wooden Coaster: Despite being a wooden coaster, Goliath features a modern track design that offers a smooth ride. This means riders can fully enjoy the fast-paced elements without the roughness typically associated with older wooden coasters.
- Inversions and Unique Elements: Goliath includes two inversions—a dive loop and a zero-gravity stall—that give riders a moment of weightlessness. These elements are rare for a wooden coaster and add an unexpected twist to the traditional wooden coaster experience.
- Airtime Moments: The coaster is filled with airtime hills that lift riders out of their seats, providing thrilling "airtime" moments that add to the adrenaline rush.
- Record-Breaking Features: When it debuted, Goliath set records for being the tallest, steepest, and fastest wooden coaster. This reputation attracts thrill-seekers eager to experience its groundbreaking design.
These features make Goliath a must-ride attraction, combining the classic appeal of a wooden coaster with cutting-edge elements to create a high-intensity thrill ride.