NEWS

This central Pa. legend 'could easily be considered the perfect coaster'

Joel Shannon
jshannon@ydr.com

It's not the tallest, fastest or newest. But it's one of the best in the world.

The Phoenix is unassuming. Standing less than 80 feet tall and reaching a top speed appropriate for a Pennsylvania back road, it's a roller coaster that doesn't visually wow like a multi-million-dollar scream machine.

Riders enjoy The Phoenix at Knoebels.

It costs just $3 to ride. Entrance to the Knoebels -- the amusement park it calls home -- is free, after you find your way there.

Located a little north of Shamokin and a lot north of Harrisburg, Knoebels is an hour or two away from most of Central Pa.'s major population centers.

But, as roller coaster enthusiasts would tell you, it's worth the drive.

In 2016, Phoenix was ranked the second-best wooden roller coaster in the world by coaster enthusiasts. It's been in the top 10 since Amusement Today started publishing the Golden Ticket awards in 1998.

More: Ranked: Pa.'s 10 best roller coasters

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It “could easily be considered the perfect coaster," said Tim Baldwin, Golden Ticket awards communications coordinator.

What makes it so special?

One common answer: Air time. That's the feeling of being lifted out of your seat -- these negative G-forces are one of the most sought-after coaster experiences. And Phoenix offers plenty of it.

And, unlike many new roller coasters with cars that pin riders down under a harness, Phoenix's restraints allow you the freedom to float out of your seat magically.

Another reason: The ride has a great story.

It takes its name from a character of Greek mythology associated with rebirth, which is exactly what happened to it.

"Rising from the ashes of its history as the Rocket roller coaster built in 1947 in San Antonio Texas, the Phoenix was reborn at Knoebels in 1985," explains Knoebels' website.

The Phoenix is just one of Pennsylvania's classic summer thrills -- the state has the highest number of top-ranked roller coasters of any state or foreign country.

Ride it virtually below: