The Thunder Rapids Water Coaster at Lake Compounce is a thrilling attraction combining the excitement of a water slide with the speed and twists of a roller coaster. Located in Bristol, Connecticut, this innovative water ride has become one of the most popular attractions at Lake Compounce, the oldest continuously operating amusement park in North America. Thunder Rapids appeals to both water ride enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, offering a unique experience that blends the best of both worlds.
Ride Overview
Thunder Rapids is a water coaster, a type of water ride that uses a combination of water jets and conveyor belts to create the sensation of climbing hills and dropping down slopes, similar to a traditional roller coaster. The ride begins with a steep plunge down a slide, followed by rapid ascents and twists, thanks to the powerful water jets that propel the raft upward against gravity. Riders experience moments of weightlessness, tight turns, and splashes along the journey, making for an exhilarating adventure.
The water coaster is designed to seat up to three riders in a single raft, allowing families and groups of friends to enjoy the fun together. The rafts are equipped with high sides and secure handles to ensure a safe yet thrilling experience as riders navigate the sharp curves, sudden drops, and uphill sections.
Design and Features
Thunder Rapids is a ProSlide® Water Coaster, a product of ProSlide Technology Inc., which is known for its cutting-edge designs in the water park industry. The ride features a series of uphill water jets, creating the distinctive coaster-like elements that differentiate it from typical water slides. The ride stands out with its innovative LIM (Linear Induction Motor) technology, which is used to power the uphill segments, providing a smooth and fast-paced ride.
The attraction is brightly colored with a winding track that weaves through trees and offers stunning views of the park. Thunder Rapids is also built with a translucent section, allowing riders to experience the thrill of speeding through clear tubes and splashing into enclosed curves before emerging into open air sections.
Ride Experience
The ride starts with an adrenaline-pumping drop that sets the tone for the rest of the journey. Riders feel a rush of water pushing them along as they twist and turn through a series of tight curves. Then, just when it seems like the ride is over, the rafts are propelled up an incline, defying gravity and adding a unique coaster-like thrill. This process repeats through several hills, providing a mix of intense splashes, exhilarating speed, and surprising airtime.
Thunder Rapids is known for its unpredictable nature—each ride can feel different depending on the weight distribution in the raft, which affects how the raft maneuvers through the turns and hills. The excitement of feeling like you're on a roller coaster while being splashed by water adds to the ride's appeal.
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: ProSlide Technology Inc.
- Ride Type: Water Coaster
- Opening Date: 2016
- Number of Riders per Raft: Up to 3
- Height Restrictions: Riders must be at least 42 inches tall.
- Location: Crocodile Cove Water Park section of Lake Compounce
- Ride Length: Approximately 700 feet
- Duration: 2 minutes
Accessibility and Safety
Thunder Rapids has been designed with safety in mind. Riders are required to wear proper swim attire and must adhere to the park’s safety rules and regulations. The ride features a conveyor belt lift system that ensures a gentle and secure boarding process. Because of the fast-paced nature of the ride, riders should be in good health and free from conditions that could be aggravated by the experience.
Thunder Rapids Water Coaster is a standout attraction at Lake Compounce, combining the thrill of a roller coaster with the fun of a water slide. Its cutting-edge design, unique ride elements, and family-friendly appeal make it a must-ride experience for visitors to the park. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for your next adrenaline rush or a family looking to enjoy a fun day in the water, Thunder Rapids offers something for everyone.
The Thunder Rapids Water Coaster at Lake Compounce is a thrilling attraction combining the excitement of a water slide with the speed and twists of a roller coaster. Located in Bristol, Connecticut,