Arizona is getting its second mountain coaster. Here's where and when it opens

Tiffany Acosta, Arizona Republic
Updated ·2 min read

Arizonans will have an exhilarating addition to its recreation opportunities next summer when the Sunrise Apache Alpine Coaster opens at Sunrise Park Resort in the White Mountains.

The new mountain coaster, spanning 3,287 feet of track, promises a year-round adventure with thrilling drops, heart-pounding turns and captivating mountain views. The coaster is owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, making it the only tribal coaster in the country and one of two alpine coasters in the state.

The Sunrise Apache Alpine Coaster is set to open in the summer of 2024 and it will operate year-round. Here is everything you need to know about Arizona's newest mountain coaster.

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What is a mountain coaster?

A mountain coaster, also known as an alpine coaster, is a type of roller coaster designed to take advantage of hills or mountain slopes. In contrast to traditional roller coasters, mountain coasters integrate with the natural landscape, twisting and turning through the mountainous terrain.

How to ride the Sunrise Apache Alpine Coaster

The Sunrise Apache Alpine Coaster features individual carts. Riders control their own speed using a hand brake. With a top speed of 25 mph and automatic maintenance of safe distances between carts, the ride is suitable for families. The coaster will operate in summer and winter.

Riders must meet specific height requirements, with a minimum height of 54 inches for a person riding alone and a minimum height of 38 inches for an additional passenger.

The coaster accommodates a maximum weight of 330 pounds on a wet track and 375 pounds on a dry track.

The Sunrise Apache Alpine Coaster's track is 3,287 feet long, featuring 994 feet uphill, 2,293 feet downhill and an elevation change of 207 feet.

The coaster is set to open on Memorial Day weekend in 2024. Pricing has yet to be announced. Check www.sunrise.ski for updates.

Things to do at Sunrise Park Resort

Sunrise Park Resort offers a range of recreational activities all year long. Here are some popular winter activities:

  • Snowboarding.

  • Skiing.

  • Ski bikes.

  • Snow tubing.

  • Cross-country skiing.

Popular summer activities at Sunrise Park include:

  • Downhill mountain biking.

  • Scenic chairlift rides.

  • 3D archery.

  • Hiking.

  • Zipline.

Details: Sunrise Park Resort, 200 State Route 273, on the Fort Apache Reservation near Greer. 855-735-7669, www.sunrise.ski.

Got a story you want to share? Reach out at Tiffany.Acosta@gannett.com. Follow @tiffsario on Instagram.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona's newest mountain coaster coming to Sunrise Park Resort