A host of new theme park rides were opened in 2013. But which were the very best?
GateKeeper at Cedar Point
Submitted by Nick Sim on Tuesday, August 14, 2012 19:50Key information
Our rating:User rating:
Park:
Land:
Wicked Twister Midway
Type:
Roller coaster
May 11, 2013
Maximum speed:
64 mph
Manufacturer:
Bolliger & Mabillard
Model:
Wing Rider coaster
Cedar Point has confirmed that it will become the latest theme park to install a Bolliger & Mabillard Wing Rider coaster, with the ride set to debut in May 2013.
Known as GateKeeper, the park's new roller coaster will be the longest ride of its type, and the third to open in the US. It will also feature the longest drop of any B&M Wing Rider model, and will dominate the main entrance area of Cedar Point when it opens to the public.
GateKeeper will be similar in style to other "winged" coasters such as X-Flight at Six Flags Great America, with riders being seated on wings on either side of its trains. These will race around a 4,164-foot circuit, hitting a top speed of 64 miles per hour.
At its tallest point, GateKeeper will stand some 170-feet-tall. Its circuit will feature 6 inversions, including a dive loop, an Immelmann loop, a giant corksrew, two zero-g rolls and an inclined dive loop. The ride's track will be teal-colored, with white supports, and will come into close contact with buildings and portals in the park's entrance gates to provide a "near-miss" sensation.
More information about GateKeeper:
Friday, August 30, 2013 09:00
Theme Park Tourist's review of GateKeeper, the new Bolliger & Mabillard Wing Rider roller coaster at Cedar Point for the 2013 season.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013 10:00
The gates are soon to open in one of Cedar Point’s most ambitious expansion projects yet.
Tuesday, March 05, 2013 16:19
Theme Park Tourist's choice of the 10 most exciting new rides and shows coming to theme parks around the world in 2013.
Upcoming refurbishments, rehabs and closures
We are not aware of any scheduled refurbishment periods for GateKeeper. Do you know of any upcoming "rehabs" that we're missing? If so - please contact us so that we can keep the list up-to-date.
Photos of GateKeeper
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Reviews of GateKeeper:
The Perfect Choice for the Perfect Park
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified)
on Tuesday, September 24, 2013 03:36
As everyone knows, Cedar Point is known around the world for having a world class selection of coasters, and it would be fitting for the park to add yet another fantastic scream machine. Not only is GateKeeper smooth, but it also provides a unique ride experience that can't be found on any other ride at the park. You truly feel like you are soaring through the air. The front rows provide impeccable views as well as foot and head chopper effects, while in the back you are pulled through inversions and over hills, providing plenty of thrills and airtime. The wing-over drop is the best part of the ride. The feeling you get as you are pulled either up or below the track depending on whether you sit on the left or right side of the train cannot be explained. If you sit on the left, you feel weightless as you are pulled up and over the element, while on the right side you feel as if you are falling to the ground. GateKeeper is very reridable, and it provides a nice balance for the park. It's a great way to relax from the more intense thrills of Millennium Force and Dragster while still providing a fun ride. I love this coaster, and now that the vests on the restraints no longer lock into place, it is an even more fantastic ride. It opened up the views of the beach, dramatically changed the skyline and front entrance, and gave guests a new option to enjoy their day with their friends and family at the best amusement park in the world.
GateKeeper
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified)
on Sunday, September 15, 2013 21:08
I was there for Media Day and for Opening Day. I have ridden all 3 American wing riders. This one is great. A word of caution. The restraints tighten although that didn't bother me and they have since fixed that. Layout is not as intense as X-Flight but still packs a punch. Keyhole elements are fabulous as is the first drop. It's more intense than Dollywood's lilting Wild Eagle. Great addition to CPs collection.
