The 6 Best Colorado Theme Park Rides

Colorado is a state full of adventurers. From hiking mountain peaks to skiing down slippery mountainsides, Coloradoans like to have fun. While there are plenty of natural wonders to enjoy, there are also a variety of man-made thrills to experience in the state, including these top theme park rides.

1. Tower of Doom at Elitch Gardens

Thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies will enjoy the 200-foot-tall Tower of Doom. After climbing slowly to the top of the tower and enjoying an impressive view of surrounding Denver, ride-goers are dropped at 60mph. This hair-raising ride is in Elitch Gardens; so after leaving your stomach at the top of the tower, enjoy the thirteen other thrill rides in the park.

2. Haunted Mine Drop at Glenwood Caverns

At the family-owned Glenwood Caverns, take the plunge 110 feet down into Iron Mountain. After enjoying a gondola ride to the park, visitors can brave the mine: get strapped in and then dropped down a dark and exhilarating mineshaft. Throughout the ride, you will encounter ghosts who tell their tragic tales.

3. Cloudscraper Zip Line at Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

American’s highest zip line offers beautiful views of the surrounding Royal Gorge Park while soaring 1,200 feet above the ground. You can go hands-free in the state-of-the-art harnesses and test your bravery by looking down at the raging Arkansas River below.

4. Star Flyer at Elitch Gardens

At 17-stories tall, this high-flying ride is sure to thrill. Like a giant swing, riders sit in open-air seats in one of the tallest rides in Colorado. The Star Flyer spins riders in a wide circle over the city at over 40 miles-per-hour. It’s your favorite theme park ride as a kid at an exciting new height.

5. Alpine Coaster at Glenwood Caverns

Take control of your own roller coaster car at the Alpine Coaster. The 3,400-foot-long track winds down a mountain slope and the rider is in control of the speed. Riders can choose whether to race down the mountain or slide at a slower pace to enjoy the scenery.

6. Terror-Dactyl at Cave of the Winds

In Manitou Springs, a terrifying ride awaits those brave enough to try it. The Terror-Dactyl launches riders from a 200-foot cliff in Williams Canyon at 100 miles-per-hour. If you can manage to keep your eyes open, you’ll see the beautiful canyon below as you swing out 150 feet.