Hydra the Revenge

Hydra: The Revenge is one of the standout roller coasters at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, located in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Opened in 2005, Hydra is a Bolliger & Mabillard floorless coaster known for its thrilling inversions, unique elements, and smooth ride experience. It was named after the multi-headed serpent from Greek mythology, symbolizing its resurrection from the remains of the park’s former wooden coaster, Hercules. With a height of 95 feet and seven inversions, Hydra has become a must-ride attraction for coaster enthusiasts visiting Dorney Park.

History and Background

Hydra was built on the same site where Hercules, the former wooden coaster, once stood. Hercules was one of the tallest wooden coasters in the world when it debuted in 1989. However, due to roughness and maintenance challenges, Hercules was dismantled in 2003. The park saw an opportunity to reimagine the space, and Hydra emerged as a symbol of rebirth and revenge—drawing inspiration from the mythical creature that grew stronger each time one of its heads was cut off.

Hydra: The Revenge was designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, a Swiss roller coaster manufacturer known for creating smooth, high-quality rides with innovative designs. The coaster officially opened on May 7, 2005, and instantly garnered attention for its unusual layout and elements that set it apart from traditional roller coasters.

The Ride Experience

Hydra starts with an element that immediately grabs riders’ attention—the Jojo Roll. This slow inversion is unique to Hydra and occurs right out of the station, giving riders an unexpected upside-down experience before even reaching the lift hill. The Jojo Roll is a rare element that’s designed to create a feeling of weightlessness, and it sets the tone for the rest of the ride.

After the Jojo Roll, the train ascends a 95-foot lift hill, offering a brief panoramic view of Dorney Park and the surrounding area. Upon reaching the peak, riders experience a twisting drop that curves to the right, plunging 105 feet into a swooping turn, reaching speeds of up to 53 mph.

Key Features and Inversions

Hydra boasts a total of seven inversions, each providing a distinct experience:

1. Jojo Roll: The signature slow inversion right out of the station.
2. Inclined Dive Loop: A unique element that begins with a sharp drop, then immediately twists riders sideways.
3. Zero-G Roll: An inversion designed to create a feeling of weightlessness as riders twist and turn smoothly through the element.
4. Cobra Roll: This complex double inversion takes riders through two consecutive roll-overs, creating intense G-forces.
5. Corkscrew: Riders are flipped head-over-heels in a tight, spiraling motion.
6. Another Corkscrew: This second corkscrew adds to the intensity of the ride, keeping riders on their toes.
7. Final Flat Spin: Hydra’s final inversion sends riders through a flat, horizontal spin before gliding back to the station.

Ride Layout and Smoothness

One of Hydra’s defining traits is its smoothness. Bolliger & Mabillard’s track design and precise engineering ensure that riders experience little to no head-banging, which can sometimes be an issue on other intense coasters. Hydra’s floorless trains enhance the sensation of freedom, as riders’ legs dangle freely with no floor beneath them.

The coaster’s layout is compact but filled with high-speed turns, loops, and inversions that keep the adrenaline pumping from start to finish. Despite its relatively moderate height compared to some other thrill coasters, Hydra’s use of elements and pacing creates a thrilling experience that often ranks as a favorite for many visitors.

Theming and Aesthetics

The ride’s name and theming take inspiration from the mythical Hydra, a fearsome multi-headed serpent slain by the Greek hero Hercules. The color scheme of the coaster—green for the tracks and yellow for the supports—evokes the scales of the mythical creature. Hydra’s train design features snake-like imagery, with stylized serpent heads on the front car, adding to the sense of battling a monster.

The ride’s entrance is marked by a large stone structure resembling an ancient temple, with the coaster’s logo prominently displayed. The area surrounding the coaster is landscaped with greenery and rockwork, complementing the overall theme of a lair for the fearsome Hydra.

Hydra's Impact on Dorney Park

Hydra has played a significant role in Dorney Park’s lineup of attractions. It helped cement the park’s reputation as a destination for thrill-seekers and has been a consistent draw since its opening. The coaster’s compact yet intense layout allows it to appeal to a wide range of guests—from hardcore coaster enthusiasts looking to add another top-tier ride to their checklist, to families seeking a thrilling but manageable experience.

Fun Facts About Hydra

• Height: 95 feet
• Drop: 105 feet
• Top Speed: 53 mph
• Track Length: 3,198 feet
• Duration: Approximately 2 minutes and 35 seconds
• Inversions: 7
• Opening Date: May 7, 2005
• Manufacturer: Bolliger & Mabillard
• Model: Floorless Coaster

Hydra: The Revenge remains a standout attraction at Dorney Park, offering a mix of unique elements, smooth inversions, and a compelling backstory that gives it a special place in the park’s history. Whether you’re a roller coaster aficionado or a casual visitor, Hydra promises a thrilling and memorable ride experience every time you face the many heads of this mythical serpent.