Nestled in the charming town of Lakeside, Montana, with sweeping views of Flathead Lake and the surrounding mountains, the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster is more than just a ride—it’s an experience you won’t forget.
As Montana’s first and only alpine coaster, this year round ride brings a whole new kind of thrill for the whole family!
So if you’re looking for more information on the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster then you have come to the right place!
In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to experience this one-of-a-kind attraction so keep reading to find out more.
Contents
- The Ride Experience
- What is an Alpine Coaster?
- Video
- Operating Hours
- Cost
- Rider Requirements
- Location and How to Get There
The Ride Experience
The coaster’s track stretches approximately 4,000 feet, weaving through Montana’s stunning alpine scenery. Riders have the autonomy to control their speed, reaching up to 27 miles per hour, allowing for either a heart-pounding descent or a leisurely glide to soak in the views. The ride lasts between 7 to 9 minutes, depending on the chosen pace.
What is an Alpine Coaster?
New to alpine coasters (also called mountain coasters)? We’ve got you covered—check out this post for a full rundown.
In short, alpine coasters are gravity-powered roller coasters that wind their way down a mountain, using the natural terrain to deliver a wild (but safe!) downhill thrill.
They’re perfect for families and adventurous souls alike—but keep in mind, there are some age and height restrictions for safety reasons.
One of the coolest features? You control the speed. Each coaster car comes with a manual brake, so you get to decide how fast (or slow) you go.
Want to take it easy? Tap the brakes. Craving adrenaline? Let it fly and enjoy the full-speed descent.
Best of all, no experience necessary. Just hop in, hold on, and have a blast.
Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster Video
One of the coolest things about alpine and mountain coasters? Tons of people have captured their rides on video—so you can get a sneak peek before you even buckle in.
Check out the video below to see what a ride on the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster looks like!
But a quick heads-up: point-of-view videos can be a little deceptive. The wide-angle lens flattens the drops and makes the ride look way slower than it actually feels.
While the footage gives you a good sense of the track and scenery, it can’t capture the real thrill of zipping down the mountain with the wind in your face.
There’s only one way to truly know what it’s like—go ride it yourself!
Operating Hours
The Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster operates year-round, with hours varying by season. As of writing, the coaster is open Monday and Thursday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Friday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It’s closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
How Much Does the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster Cost?
At the time of writing the cost to ride the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster was as follows:
| Ticket | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| Single ride | $20.00 | $15.00 |
| 3-ride pack | $45.00 | $35.00 |
The latest information on pricing, bundles and discounts can be found on the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster website. Special promotions, such as unlimited rides for an hour, are occasionally offered, so it’s advisable to check their official website for the latest deals.
Rider Requirements
To ensure safety, riders must meet certain age and height requirements. Children must be at least 3 years old and 36 inches tall to ride. Those under 56 inches tall or younger than 13 must ride with a responsible person aged 16 or older. Two adults over 56 inches tall may not ride together.