Ludlow, VT – Okemo Mountain Resort is working through a three-pronged permitting process and the final purchase and financing agreements for its Thanksgiving weekend introduction of The Okemo Mountain Coaster, a four-season attraction that will offer a scenic and exhilarating ride through the Vermont ski and snowboard resort’s forests and along the contours of the mountain at Jackson Gore.nOkemo is working with Alpine Recreation Ventures to install the roller-coaster ride manufactured by Wiegand. Firmly connected on maintenance-free stainless steel tubular rails, the Wiegland alpine coasters run smoothly down the mountain. The sled-like cars are designed to carry two passengers in comfort but can be handled easily by one alone. The riders are in control of the speed and this gives them a unique hands-on experience, encouraging repeat visits. The supporting structure sits directly on the ground without foundations and is held firmly in position with steel stakes.

Visitors, age 7 and older, will load and unload The Okemo Mountain Coaster in the Jackson Gore base area, near the bottom of the Coleman Brook Express lift. The ride will start with a 1600-foot climb lasting about five minutes. Then, passengers will descend 375 vertical feet along 3100 feet of track that follows the contours of the mountain with added waves, camel backs and banking loops at a speed of up to 25 mph. At optimal efficiency, the mountain coaster will accommodate nearly 500 riders per hour and operate year round in most weather conditions. Rates are still to be determined but will be priced per ride with a multi-ride option.

There are presently six similar mountain coaster rides located in North America. The nearest is at Jiminy Peak ski area in Massachusetts.

“The Okemo Mountain Coaster will serve as an anchor for other Jackson Gore summer activities,” said Ted Reeves, VP of Okemo Real Estate and Development. “It will become another fun alternative family activity in winter.”