I wouldn’t normally do a trip report on a visit to my home park, but this day was definitely not normal, and I would like to share it with you all.
The anticipated final day for Michigan’s Adventure arrived. Today was the day I was to hit my 400th ride on Shivering Timbers. Two of my friends and I set out for the park early, arriving about 20 minutes early. Right away we made our way to ST, only to discover that one train operation would prove to be a menace this last day of the season. Lines averaged steadily around 20 minutes all day. After seven warm up laps, it was time for the big one: number 400. We snagged the traditional front seat, took our pictures, and off we went. This ride was especially great, and by far the best one of the day; the train ran fast and smooth on a full load. Upon our arrival back into the station, we found some people clapping at my achievement. It really couldn’t have been better; ok, a solo ride with just my friends would’ve been nice, but this ride was definitely the way to hit the mark. We continued to ride ST for about an hour and a half more, until about 5:15. We knew this was the time to stop; stop and wait for the line to be closed to have the traditional last ride of the season on ST. The time came to getting in line, and we slowly made our way up into the station. We had timed it perfectly, two more loads to finish the season, and 2 people in front of us. It began to rain, and the familiar “Ladies and gentleman, Shivering Timbers has now become a water ride,” tuned in over the microphone. Even though it was only 6, it was already dark. One more train to go, then suddenly thunder filled the air, and immediate worry came about our faces. The ride operator said to have no worries, that he would run one more, but he was wrong. The head mechanic on ST came up the ramp and said something to the ride operator, about this time I grew very worried. It was true, the ride operator informed us that there would be no more rides on ST. The timing couldn’t have possibly been worse, I did not get my last ride on ST. Very disappointedly we left the station amongst the rain and thunder. We watched as the empty train ran its course through the mile-long track. The chain stopped, and that was the end. We walked down the empty midway in the pour down rain speechless. “Well, I guess we’ll see you in eight months, ST,” I said, and we left it at that.
Although this day had a truly depressing end, a lot of memories were made. I accomplished my goal of 400 laps total before the season ended. I also got to meet my first buzzer. Most of the ST staff was there to finish up the day as well. ST ran great today, and I even got to get away with minimal clicks on the lap bar ;). MIA’s season has ended, but will not be forgotten. Next summer is definitely something to look forward to for Michigan’s Adventure, and until then, happy hibernating ST!
-------------
Kara
403 Laps
