Wold ride. Hits the track running, the first drop i right out of the station. A good, long, terrain hugging ride with powerful laterals and decent air. Did I mention the drop at the station?? If you like the GE Comet or the Phoenix Jumpo on put your hands in the air and say aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaamen

Everything you need in a woodie

(Updated 6/29/2002)

Two years ago when I first rode this, I did not think very much of it. It must have been because I was beat up by the Steel Phantom earlier, or because of the heavy crowd, or because of the hour + wait for this coaster.

However, after my latest visit, Thunderbolt has redemed itself! This coaster has what I like... drops, and lots of them. And on top of most of them is air... not ejector seat quality, but the floating kind. From its first drop out of the station to its final, largest drop before re-entering the station, this ride does not leave up. Even the lift hill after the first two drops doesnt slow things down... rather it gives you enough time to catch your breath before hitting that pseudo helix around the station.

I would give it a 9.5, if I could. If they took the trim brake off it just before it goes back into the ravine the second time, it would be a 10. It shakes you, rattles you, and pops you out of your seat, and the start is a big surprise.

One of the best wooden coasters out there!

This is my second fav wooden coaster next to the wildcat at HERSHEY PARK 100% thrill!!

One of my all-time-favorite woodies. Next to the Phantom, this is the parks best rides.

A grand old and unique woodie. Even when youve ridden it before it surprises you.

Very unique and very fun! The classic trains make the ride even more enjoyable.

Unique is the first word most people visualize when they hear of the Thunderbolt. The remains of the old Pippin have yielded a wild ride that is unmatched in terms of pure surprise. However, dont expect to jump in loving it; it took me 5 rides and 2 trips to finally "get" the Thunderbolt. But once you recognize the bolt for what it is, you will love it forever. Backseat, Frontseat, anywhere on a 3 bench NAD is just fine with me.