California’s Great America Debuts the ‘Rail Blazer,’ roller coaster modeled after Central Coast

In honor of National Roller Coaster Day, California’s Great America broke ground on a new ride for 2018.

Rail Blazer is said to be the first coaster of its kind on the West Coast featuring a single rail track throughout the ride. The coaster will lift riders 106 feet before plunging down at a 90 degree angle. Riders will travel 52 miles per hour throughout the 1,800 feet of track.

“RailBlazer is a revolutionary roller coaster concept that will be an intense and exhilarating ride experience for our guests,” said Raul Rehnborg, vice president and general manager, California’s Great America. “In addition, it marks the company’s initial investment in the park following the City of Santa Clara’s approval this year of the new park master plan, and kicks off a multi-year transformation of California’s Great America into a world-class destination for everyone in the Bay Area and beyond.”

Officials at Great America said the design reflects an off-road adventure with a theme embracing the great outdoors of the Bay Area and Central Coast.

“Once on board, riders will ascend a 45-degree climb, dive into a ravine and encounter steeped embankments representing an extreme four-wheeling journey. Imposing physical elements during the ride and queue line include a natural waterway, rocky surroundings and a trailhead marquee sign designed to mark the beginning of the journey,” said park officials.