The views expressed in this Opinion article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Narcity Media.
This winter experience isn't your average outing. I recently rode Ontario's mountain coaster through a snow-covered forest and it was way more thrilling than I expected.
The Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster is a year-round attraction that sends you racing down a towering slope. Tucked away in Blue Mountain Resort, the coaster is the first of its kind in the province, with a 1-kilometre track offering gorgeous views of the Niagara Escarpment and quaint Village below.
During a weekend away at Blue Mountain Village I decided it was finally time to cross this experience off my bucket list.
The attraction is located just behind the village near the ski slopes. I went on a Saturday and was surprised to find that there was no line at all.
After watching a short safety video, I was buckled into the ride. The coaster features individual cars equipped with levers that allow you to control your speed.
The ride begins with a climb up the mountain, which, honestly, was the most relaxing part of the whole experience. As the car was pulled higher and higher, I got to soak up stunning views of the snow-dusted forest around me.
As I neared the top, however, I started wondering what I'd gotten myself into. From the ground, the slope didn’t seem that high, but now that I was nearly at the peak, it was a whole other story. The ride actually stretches 1000 metres high, and looking down at the snowy forest below, I realized just how far I was about to fly.
Once I reached the top, an employee instructed me to push forward on the levers. With a sudden burst of speed, I began to soar down the mountain, and it was way faster than I expected.
The coaster reaches speeds of up to 42 kilometres an hour, although you can control your own speed with the levers.
I decided to go all in and enjoy the ride at full-speed. I zoomed around sharp turns and loops, feeling like I was on a roller coaster in the middle of Narnia. The sides of the ride are open, making it feel like you're actually flying down the mountain.
The Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity
The frosty forest surroundings made the whole experience even more magical, and I couldn’t stop laughing (and screaming) the entire way down.
Once I reached the end of the track, there was only one thing to do—go again. This is one ride you just have to experience more than once.
Since it is included in Blue Mountain Resort's Play All Day ticket, you get unlimited rides on the coaster, as well as access to other activities such as the Woodview Mountaintop Skating Trail and Plunge! Aquatic Centre.
Whether you're looking for some thrills or just wanting to try something different this winter, the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster is worth the trip. I already know I'll be back for another ride (or two).
Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster
Price: $35 to $68 for the online Winter Play All Day ticket
When: Daily, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Address: 190 Gord Canning Dr., Blue Mountains, ON
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.