In 1978, Six Flags put their stamp on Great Adventure adding the first true "thrill ride" to Great Adventure with the twin, interlocking Arrow Launch loops of Lightnin' Loops.  For most park goers, it was the first time they had ever seen a looping roller coaster, let alone ridden one!

The twin coasters were simple, with stairs leading to platforms high of the ground where the passengers boarded the trains.   The trains were launched by a catch car down a hill and through a loop, then climbed a hill on the opposite side with a matching platform.   The train would briefly stop on the far platform, then a second catch car would launch the train through the circuit in reverse.   One loop was set higher and one lower, allowing the loops to interlock in the center.

Lightnin' Loops was a simple gimmick ride, and was quickly made obsolete as full-circuit became the industry standard.   The park removed Lightnin' Loops to make way for Batman the Ride's arrival in 1993.

The Upper Loop was relocated to Six Flags America in Largo, Maryland, where it is currently in storage.   The Lower Loop was relocated to Frontier City in Oklahoma City, where it still runs today.

Lightnin' Loops Statistics
Height: 56 Feet
Speed: 45 mph
Designed and built by Arrow Dynamics


See the Lightnin' Loops (Upper) page
on Roller Coaster Database for more information

See the Lightnin' Loops (Lower) page
on Roller Coaster Database for more information