This New Rollercoaster Has the Steepest Freefall Drop in the Western US

The right rollercoaster is pure adrenaline, and it seems that rollercoasters are getting bigger, faster, and higher all the time. If you’re chasing the next big thing, it might be time for a road trip to Colorado for make a stop in Glenwood Springs and a chance to take ride on the steepest freefall drop in the western United States — and the highest looping roller coaster in the entire United States.

Photo: Glenwood Caverns Amusement Park

On July 9, Glenwood Caverns Amusement Park debuted Defiance, a coaster that reaches up to 56 mph at 7,132 feet above sea level. On the drop, riders freefall from 110 feet at 102.3 degrees. If riders can gather their wits on the 56-second ride, they can take in the gorgeous views of Roaring Fork Rivers, Mount Sopris, South Canyon, Glenwood Canyon, and the city of Glenwood Springs. Other thrilling highlights are the 98-foot twisted top hat and switch, the 111-foot high-speed bank banana roll, and the 41-foot zero-g heartline roll. The rollercoaster can take 24 people at a time with three cars that each seat eight.

“With record-breaking elements, Defiance is sure to become instantly recognizable around the world,” said General Manager Nancy Heard in a press release. “Perched atop America’s only mountain-top theme park, riders will experience a thrill and view unlike any other and we are looking forward to giving our guests this unique experience.”

Photo: Glenwood Caverns Amusement Park

Defiance is now available to ride Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 7 PM and Friday through Sunday from 9 AM to 9 PM. To ride Defiance, amusement park goers will need to purchase the Funday ticket package for $67, which includes all the park has to offer, including the mountain-top gondolas, several different tours and coasters, laser tag and more. The park also sells annual passes starting at $195.