SDC: Powder Keg & Wildfire

Hey guys,
I just got back from an awesome Young Christians Weekend at SDC. The crowds were pretty bad, but I braved through it and got to ride Powder Keg twice (one in the front) and Wildfire thrice.

Powder Keg - The biggest shocker of my life, I thought this baby was tame! By all means it is not! The first launch is not too shabby, you get awesome airtime on the first hill. Then you drop down into the valley of the ozarks and go through a great ride of twists and turns. The only thing that really spoiled this ride was the lift hill, it kinda ruined the feel of the ride because you paused before heading fast again. But all in all, this ride was great! I waited a little over an hour both times, but it was worth it!

Wildfire - A pretty good ride, I'm surprised I don't hear more about this coaster. Its first hill and inversion is awesome! I went on this bad boy(cheesy) 3 times, only waited about 30 minutes each time. I like the themeing in the que lines, I don't like the hidden que upstairs though.(If you've been on this ride, you know what I'm talking about)

Well I only had one day, and that's all I got to do besides American Plunge. SDC is a very well managed, themed, and clean park. I'm dying to go back and explore more of it!

Until whenever...
-Physix

I will agree with you about not hearing too much about Wildfire. To me it's definitely one of the most underrated steelies out there and definitley the most underrated Beemer. That first drop is one of the my favorites. You float the whole down.:) I can't wait to get back to the park in early June.

^It does seem like it's just...."Out there".

Though I've ridden a modest number of coasters, just under 150, Wildfire easily takes the spot as my #2 favorite steel ride, and my Favorite Multi looping ride. There is no dull points on it at all! I think that is helped by the fact it has no brakes, it has no flat sections, it is just element after element! I know deep in my heart that if I rode another 500 coasters Wildfire will still be in my top 5, I just love it so much.

I like all of these positive reviews about Powder Keg. Thanks Physix. I too was a little skeptical about the mild looking layout and the "family ride" label, but every one keeps saying that it packs a punch.

I'll find out for myself on May 22nd and give my own feedback.

I also want to comment on Wildfire being "under the radar", but I was pleasantly suprised when I rode this for the first time last year. It's definitely a Batman style ride that never lets up until you hit the final brake run. It also has one of the best pops of air I've ever experienced on a rollercoaster. A little on the first drop and most when you come out of the final 120 degree turn up into the brake run. You literally float for a couple seconds if you're near the front of the train. The front seat is by far the best ride on Wildfire.

I hope Worlds of Fun is catching all of SDC's attention. I live 15min from Worlds of Fun and find myself skipping that park and visiting SfStL and SDC more often. WOF needs to get back in the game BADLY or suffer pretty soon. Their "Patriot" attempt better blow everyone out of the water next year if they want any chance ;)

Well I rode Powderkeg on Saturday and I as well was suprised by how good this ride is. The launch is great have to love AIR Lauches! and the airtime throughout the ride is fantastic! Defenately a Number One Ride!