Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, is home to many exhilarating rides and attractions, but few match the intensity and thrill of the Talon. As one of the park’s most prominent roller coasters, Talon is known for its gravity-defying inversions, twists, and turns. Since its debut in 2001, this steel inverted coaster has been a favorite among thrill-seekers and coaster enthusiasts.
The Design and Layout
Designed by the world-renowned Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M), Talon is an inverted coaster, which means the track is above the riders, leaving their feet dangling free in the air. This design provides a unique sensation of flying, making each inversion and drop even more intense. With a bright orange and yellow color scheme, the coaster stands out as one of the most visually striking rides in the park.
The layout of Talon is carefully engineered to offer an uninterrupted series of high-speed elements that keep riders engaged from start to finish. The coaster reaches a maximum height of 135 feet, plunging into a first drop that sends riders careening at speeds of up to 58 mph. With a total length of 3,110 feet, the ride lasts approximately two minutes—filled with breath-taking inversions, overbanked turns, and zero-gravity sensations.
Key Elements of the Ride
Talon features a series of elements that set it apart as a standout ride in Dorney Park:
- Vertical Loop: After the initial drop, riders are thrust into a 98-foot vertical loop, creating intense g-forces that make the heart-pounding start to the ride unforgettable.
- Zero-G Roll: One of the signature moments of the ride is the zero-gravity roll, where riders experience a weightless sensation as the train twists 360 degrees.
- Immelmann Loop: Named after the aerial maneuver, this element combines a half-loop with a twist, flipping riders upside down and back again in a single, fluid motion.
- Corkscrew: Near the end of the ride, the corkscrew inversion rapidly spins riders around twice, leaving little time to catch their breath.
- High-Speed Turns: The ride’s high-speed, low-to-the-ground turns and overbanked curves make riders feel like they’re racing along the track, enhancing the feeling of speed and adrenaline.
The Experience
The experience on Talon starts long before the train leaves the station. The queue line is designed to build anticipation, winding through sections that offer sneak peeks of the ride’s most intense elements. Once seated, riders secure themselves with the over-the-shoulder restraints, and a reassuring “All Clear!” signals the start of the adventure.
As the train is pulled up the 135-foot lift hill, riders are treated to sweeping views of the park and the surrounding Lehigh Valley. But as soon as the train crests the hill, gravity takes over. The first drop swoops to the right, creating a gut-wrenching sensation as riders are flung into the vertical loop. The sequence of inversions and high-speed elements that follow provides non-stop excitement, keeping riders on the edge of their seats (or rather, dangling from them) until the final brake run.
Ride Stats and Technical Details
- Height: 135 feet
- First Drop: 120 feet
- Maximum Speed: 58 mph
- Length: 3,110 feet
- Duration: ~2 minutes
- Inversions: 4
- Manufacturer: Bolliger & Mabillard
- Opening Year: 2001
Talon’s Place in Dorney Park
Talon has established itself as one of the most beloved rides at Dorney Park. It often receives praise for its smoothness and the way it delivers a thrilling ride without being overly intense for newer coaster riders. It also ranks as one of the best B&M inverts in the United States, known for its masterful pacing and well-designed elements. Over the years, Talon has remained a staple attraction, appealing to both seasoned coaster enthusiasts and families looking for a top-tier ride.
Tips for Enjoying Talon
To make the most out of your experience on Talon, consider these tips:
- Best Time to Ride: Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid long lines. Talon is popular and can have wait times of 30 minutes or more during peak hours.
- Front Row for the Best Views: If you want to fully experience the sensation of flight, opt for the front row. It offers the best views of the ride’s twists and turns.
- Back Row for More Intensity: For those looking for maximum airtime and intensity, the back row tends to provide a more forceful experience during the first drop and inversions.
- Secure Your Belongings: Talon’s intense inversions and twists can jostle loose items. Be sure to use the provided lockers or storage bins to secure anything that might fall out.
Talon remains a standout attraction at Dorney Park, offering a perfect blend of intensity, smoothness, and thrill. Its expertly designed elements and graceful transitions make it a must-ride for any roller coaster fan. Whether you’re a seasoned coaster enthusiast or a first-time rider, Talon is sure to deliver an experience that leaves you wanting more. If you find yourself at Dorney Park, don’t miss the opportunity to soar through the air on this iconic inverted coaster!
Talon is known for its gravity-defying inversions, twists, and turns. Since its debut in 2001, this steel inverted coaster has been a favorite among thrill-seekers and coaster enthusiasts.