The Raven, a classic wooden roller coaster at Holiday World & Splashin' Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana, has been a fan favorite since it first opened in 1995. This coaster was inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's famous poem "The Raven," and has captivated coaster enthusiasts with its thrilling ride experience. It is known for its smooth yet intense track layout, unexpected airtime, and beautiful setting through the dense forest of Holiday World. The Raven has consistently ranked high among wooden coasters globally, making it a must-ride attraction for roller coaster enthusiasts.
History and Design
Designed by the renowned coaster design firm Custom Coasters International, The Raven was the first major wooden coaster at Holiday World and marked the park’s entry into the league of top-tier amusement parks. It was constructed to utilize the natural terrain of the park, which results in a unique ride that features a series of sudden drops, sharp turns, and exhilarating changes in direction. The coaster's name, theme, and design elements pay homage to Poe's mysterious and eerie poem, with signage and décor that evoke a gothic atmosphere.
The Raven’s success helped establish Holiday World as a premier destination for coaster enthusiasts and paved the way for future coaster additions, including The Legend and The Voyage, both of which are also highly acclaimed wooden coasters.
Track Layout and Ride Experience
The Raven's 2,800 feet of track offers a blend of traditional out-and-back and twister elements. The ride starts with a 85-foot lift hill that drops into a wooded area, giving riders a sense of mystery and anticipation. Its maximum speed of 50 mph, coupled with sudden directional changes and intense airtime moments, gives riders a thrilling experience despite its relatively short duration of 1 minute and 30 seconds.
Key features include:
- First Drop: The initial 85-foot drop sets the tone for the ride, plunging into the woods and immediately engaging riders.
- Lake Turn: One of the most iconic elements is the high-speed turn over Lake Rudolph, which provides a breathtaking view and a sharp sensation of speed.
- The Fifth Drop: The fifth drop is perhaps the ride’s most famous moment. Hidden in the forest, it catches many by surprise and provides intense airtime.
- Tunnel Section: The dark, enclosed tunnel adds a touch of suspense before riders are thrust back into the daylight for the final stretch.
The coaster’s layout takes full advantage of the natural landscape, weaving in and out of the dense woods, creating a sense of speed and unpredictability as riders are unsure what comes next.
Accolades and Popularity
The Raven has been a staple on coaster enthusiasts’ “must-ride” lists since its opening. It has frequently been voted among the top wooden coasters in the world by industry magazines like Amusement Today. For several years after its debut, The Raven held the title of the "Best Wooden Roller Coaster" in Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards.
Accessibility and Rider Information
The Raven is a high-speed, intense roller coaster designed for thrill-seekers. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride. The coaster's queue is designed to immerse riders in the theme, with signage and poetry excerpts from Poe’s "The Raven," adding to the eerie atmosphere.
Holiday World has made significant efforts to maintain the coaster's track and structure, ensuring a smooth ride experience. Given its enduring popularity, it is recommended to visit early in the day or during off-peak times to avoid long wait times.
The Raven at Holiday World Amusement Park is more than just a wooden roller coaster; it's a timeless classic that offers a blend of thrills, history, and theming. Its legendary status among wooden coasters, coupled with its beautiful setting and well-maintained track, make it an essential experience for any coaster fan visiting the park. With its perfect balance of speed, airtime, and twists, The Raven continues to "nevermore" disappoint.