The Phoenix is a beloved wooden roller coaster located at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. This coaster, known for its classic wooden design, airtime, and smooth ride experience, is one of the most celebrated attractions in the park. Despite its history, the Phoenix continues to captivate riders of all ages with its nostalgic charm and thrilling experience. It has repeatedly been ranked among the top wooden coasters in the world, making it a must-ride for any roller coaster enthusiast.
History of the Phoenix
The Phoenix wasn't always at Knoebels. It originally opened in 1947 at Playland Park in San Antonio, Texas, under the name "The Rocket." After Playland closed in 1980, Knoebels purchased and relocated the ride. In 1985, the coaster was meticulously rebuilt piece-by-piece at its new home in Pennsylvania and given a new name: "Phoenix," symbolizing its rebirth and rise from its previous location. The relocation and restoration of the coaster are often regarded as one of the most successful and ambitious efforts to preserve a wooden roller coaster.
The Ride Experience
Riders board classic open cars with a lap bar restraint that allows for plenty of movement, enhancing the sense of freedom and excitement. The experience begins with a slow ascent up a 78-foot (24-meter) lift hill, followed by a series of drops, sharp turns, and airtime-filled hills. One of the most notable features of the Phoenix is its "double down" drop, which gives riders a strong sensation of airtime. This classic coaster layout, combined with its smooth track and minimal restraints, delivers a timeless ride experience that has become a favorite for thrill-seekers and families alike.
The Design and Layout
The Phoenix stands 78 feet tall and reaches a top speed of 45 miles per hour. The 3,200 feet of track consists of tight turns and quick hills, delivering a perfectly balanced combination of thrills. It’s renowned for its "out-and-back" layout, which means it travels outward from the station in a relatively straight line before making a turnaround and heading back. This simple yet effective design creates a perfect sequence of small but powerful airtime moments that have helped the ride maintain its high standing in coaster enthusiast rankings.
Awards and Recognition
The Phoenix is consistently ranked among the top wooden coasters in the world. Each year, it is highly rated by organizations such as the Golden Ticket Awards, hosted by Amusement Today. It has often placed in the top ten wooden coasters, thanks to its smooth ride, airtime, and historical significance. The Phoenix has been praised for its maintenance and preservation, with Knoebels’ commitment to keeping it in top shape earning respect from both fans and industry professionals.
Why Phoenix Stands Out
One of the reasons the Phoenix remains so popular is due to its accessibility to a wide range of riders. While the coaster provides enough thrills for seasoned enthusiasts, it’s also approachable for younger or less experienced riders. The ride is known for its excellent pacing and "floating" airtime, which gives riders the sensation of weightlessness without the discomfort or intensity of more modern coasters.
Additionally, the coaster’s setting in the heart of Knoebels’ wooded landscape adds to its charm. There’s something special about zooming through the trees on a classic wooden coaster, surrounded by nature and the cheerful sounds of a family-owned amusement park. This integration of the natural environment with the traditional amusement park experience makes Phoenix feel timeless.
The Phoenix is more than just a wooden roller coaster; it’s a piece of amusement park history, a symbol of restoration, and a testament to the thrill of classic coaster design. With its smooth, airtime-filled ride and its story of rebirth, Phoenix continues to draw both new and returning riders. It’s a beloved gem of Knoebels Amusement Resort and a shining example of how a classic ride can still deliver thrills, joy, and timeless appeal.
For roller coaster enthusiasts, families, or anyone looking to enjoy a piece of amusement history, Phoenix is a must-ride experience that perfectly blends nostalgia and excitement.