Parachute towers are a dying breed at amusement parks. Many years ago, companies constructed massive towers comparable to today’s drop towers where riders experienced a breathtaking plunge from daunting heights. In all honesty, they were the predecessors to today’s drop towers and set the foundation for these more thrilling incarnations. Unfortunately, these attractions are disappearing left and right in favor of more-modern, technological marvels, but some still operate today. However, Intamin has in the last few years let this great concept that has been so instrumental for the amusement park industry live on; only it’s on a slightly smaller scale.
Having been on Dutch Wonderland’s near identical Ripcord, I inevitably compared the two instantly. Well, Ripcord blows Knoebels’ Paradrop away in terms of appearance, as this one’s dull and dreary, faded-green paint job simply wasn’t as appealing to the eye as Ripcord’s vibrant paint scheme. Never before have I encountered a wait for this mini-parachute tower, and I doubt that lines ever trouble this kid-friendly attraction.
Once seated, the ride soon begins with a slow ascent to the top of the diminutive tower, pausing halfway up momentarily. Soon enough though, the ascent continues until reaching the top, where some mixed views can be experienced. If you’re fortunate enough to be facing towards the Phoenix, you’ll get some really good and unique views of the entire ride, but the other seats offer no such view other than of the park’s dense woodlands. But the view doesn’t last long, as there’s a sudden, but gentle plunge that provides a small pop of air. Once certainly isn’t enough, as the park repeats this process again to give a satisfying ride.
Paradrop is definitely a nice, little attraction. While it rightfully lacks the acclaim the park’s more famous attractions like the Phoenix or Flyer receives, it serves a small niche and while a one-trick-pony, it does that trick very well- providing a quick thrill suitable for all ages. Compared to Ripcord, this one is slightly better thanks to the extra drop that the park provides. Ultimately, Ripcord is a passable attraction worth experiencing if time allows it since it does provide a brief thrill.
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