Photo: Curt Schimmel

The American Coaster Enthusiasts recognizes Lagoon Park’s Roller Coaster as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark, a designation reserved for rides of historical significance.

Originally named the Lagoon Dips or Pippen Dips, and later the Giant Coaster, the 62-foot tall double out-and-back ride was engineered by master designer John A. Miller (1874-1941) of the New York firm Miller & Baker, and built by the Colorado Construction Company. One of only 13 remaining examples of Miller’s work worldwide, it was constructed at a cost of $75,000, and opened on May 28, 1921 with an initial drop of 57 feet and track length of 3,598 feet. An August 1923 flood damaged structure requiring new concrete footings, and an eclectic new station was added a November 1953 fire that damaged parts of the midway.

Representing Utah’s only traditional wood coaster since 1958, its distinctive structure, stretching from the midway into the adjacent parking area, seems ideally set against the striking backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. As the sixth oldest coaster in the world, Roller Coaster continues to thrill riders of all ages and remains an integral part of Lagoon’s appealing collection of roller coasters.

Presented by American Coaster Enthusiasts
July 30, 2005