Zoomerang is a classic steel shuttle coaster located at Lake Compounce, one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States, situated in Bristol, Connecticut. Known for its compact design and thrilling inversions, Zoomerang has been a staple attraction at Lake Compounce since its debut in 1997. Manufactured by the renowned coaster designer Vekoma, the ride features a "boomerang" layout, which includes multiple inversions and a unique forward and backward experience that delivers intense excitement for both roller coaster enthusiasts and casual riders.
Ride Specifications and Layout
Zoomerang is a Vekoma Boomerang coaster model, one of the most popular coaster designs in the world. It stands at a height of 116 feet (35.4 meters) and reaches a top speed of 47 mph (75.6 km/h). The ride track spans 935 feet (285 meters) and includes three inversions that are experienced twice: once during the forward trip and once again when the train reverses direction. These inversions consist of a cobra roll and a vertical loop.
Key Ride Features:
- Height: 116 feet
- Speed: 47 mph
- Track Length: 935 feet
- Inversions: 3 (experienced twice)
- G-Force: Up to 5.2 Gs
- Ride Duration: Approximately 1 minute 48 seconds
- Rider Requirements: Minimum height of 48 inches
The Experience
Zoomerang’s excitement begins with a thrilling vertical lift, pulling riders backward up a tall lift hill. Once at the top, the train is released, plunging forward through a heart-pounding drop that propels riders through the station and into the first inversion sequence—a cobra roll, which flips the train through two sharp, twisting inversions. Immediately following is a vertical loop, which sends riders upside-down for the third time before the train climbs a second lift hill.
At the peak of the second hill, the train is released once more, and the experience is repeated in reverse. Riders are whisked back through the loop and cobra roll in the opposite direction, experiencing each inversion a second time, before coming to a final stop back at the station. The back-and-forth motion, combined with the sudden changes in direction and intense forces, make Zoomerang a memorable and thrilling coaster for all who ride it.
History and Significance
Zoomerang was one of the major additions to Lake Compounce in the late 1990s as the park sought to expand its coaster lineup and modernize its offerings. The ride's introduction was part of a revitalization effort, helping to solidify Lake Compounce's reputation as a destination for thrill-seekers. Despite being over two decades old, Zoomerang remains a popular attraction and continues to draw crowds during peak park seasons.
The ride's Boomerang design, which has been replicated at amusement parks around the world, is known for its compact footprint and ability to deliver a high-thrill experience in a relatively small space. This layout has made it a versatile choice for parks with limited room, while still providing riders with a world-class looping experience.
Maintenance and Renovations
Zoomerang has undergone several updates and refurbishments over the years to maintain its smooth ride and structural integrity. In 2007, Lake Compounce completed a major repainting of the ride, updating its color scheme to vibrant blue and yellow, enhancing its visual appeal. The trains have also received periodic overhauls to improve rider comfort and safety.
Rider Experience Tips
To get the most out of your Zoomerang experience, aim to ride at the front for the most intense visual experience during the inversions or choose the back seat for the strongest airtime and forces during the initial drop. Because the coaster operates with only a single train, wait times can be lengthy on busy days. Consider riding early in the day or during mealtime hours to minimize wait times.
Zoomerang at Lake Compounce offers a thrilling, high-intensity experience in a relatively short ride. Its unique shuttle coaster design, combined with intense inversions and a classic "forward and backward" experience, makes it a must-ride attraction for coaster enthusiasts visiting the park. Despite its age, Zoomerang continues to stand out as a compact powerhouse, delivering excitement and adrenaline for all who dare to take the plunge.
Zoomerang is a classic steel shuttle coaster located at Lake Compounce, one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States, situated in Bristol, Connecticut.