If you’re looking for your next outdoor adventure then we can’t think of a more exciting family-friendly ride than the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster.
This alpine coaster, located at the Breckenridge Resort in Breckenridge Colorado is one of the most popular attractions at the resort.
So if you’re looking for more information on the Gold Runner 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
- Gold Runner Alpine Coaster
- How Long is the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster?
- How Fast is the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster?
- What Is an Alpine Coaster?
- Video
- Cost
- Operating Hours
- Rider Requirements
- Location and How To Get There
- Frequently Asked Questions
Gold Runner Alpine Coaster
The Gold Runner Coaster is a mountain or alpine coaster located at the Breckenridge Resort in Colorado.
The alpine coaster is located at the base of Peak 8 and the best way to access the alpine coaster is to take the free Breckenridge Gondola from Watson Avenue.
Unlike traditional roller coasters found in theme parks, mountain or alpine coasters are located in mountainous areas and use natural elevation and gravity to transport the riders.
How Long is the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster?
The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster covers a distance of 2,500 feet (762m) on elevated tracks, has two full 360-degree loops and reaches a top speed of 27 mph (43 km/h).
The total ride time, including the cable-pulled ascent, is about four minutes.
You can expect a downhill ride time of approximately one minute depending on your speed.
How Fast is the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster?
The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster can reach a maximum speed of 27 mp/h (43 km/h).
As a safety feature, this alpine coaster is fitted with an automatic braking system that prevents the carts from going over the maximum speed.
In addition, this alpine coaster is fitted with a manual brake that lets riders control the speed of their descent.
If 27 mp/h (42 km/h) is too fast for you, you can slow the ride down to a speed that feels more comfortable.
The brake levers are located on either side of the cart. You pull them back to engage the brakes.
It doesn’t take long to get the hang of it and before you know it you’ll be cruising down the mountain.
What is An Alpine Coaster?
If you’re unfamiliar with mountain coasters (also known as alpine coasters), check out the post we wrote.
Mountain or alpine coasters are gravity-powered roller coasters that use the natural contours of a mountain to provide riders with a thrilling downhill ride experience.
Mountain coasters are a great activity that the whole family can enjoy. However, given the nature of this ride, there are some age and height restrictions that apply.
In addition, mountain coasters are equipped with a manual brake, enabling riders to adjust their descent speed.
This unique feature allows riders to have greater control of their experience.
If things get a bit too fast for your liking you can apply the brake, if you’re more of the daredevil type then you can leave the brake untouched for maximum speed.
And finally, no prior experience or training is necessary. You can just jump in and enjoy the ride.
Gold Runner Alpine Coater Video
One of the great things about alpine and mountain coasters is that many people have filmed their ride experiences.
Below is a video of what you can expect on the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster.
One thing to be aware of though is that point-of-view videos can be a bit misleading.
The wide-angled lens makes the drops shallower and the ride seems way slower than it is in real life.
They provide a good idea of what the ride looks like but only real-world experience tells you how they feel.
So get out there and try it for yourself!
One additional thing worth noting is that the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster also operates during the winter season.
To give you an idea of what the winter ride is like, take a look at this video below:
How Much Does the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster Cost?
At the time of writing, the cost to ride the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster was as follows:
| Ride | Price |
|---|---|
| Gold Runner Alpine Coaster (Single Rider) | $34 |
| Gold Runner Alpine Coaster (Passenger) | $19 |
Tickets can be purchased online in advance by visiting the official Breckenridge website.
You can also buy tickets at the Gondola Ticket Office and the Peak 8 Ticket Office.
Gold Runner Alpine Coaster Operating Hours
Summer Operating Hours
The alpine coaster is open from 10:00 am to 4:15 pm (Thursday to Monday).
The summer season typically runs from the end of June to the beginning of September.
Due to ongoing construction at the base of Peak 8, the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster will have limited operating hours this summer.
It is only expected to run on weekends in July and is expected to open daily during August.
Winter Operating Hours
The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster is open every day during the winter season. However, the hours may vary due to the weather conditions.
We recommend visiting the ticket office for more information. In extreme weather, it’s worth phoning ahead (970-453-5000) to check that the coaster is open.
The coaster will open for the 2022/2023 winter season on November 25.
Rider Requirements
As with any ride of this nature, there are some rider requirements that have been put in place for your safety.
The key rider requirements are summarized below:
- Children must be at least 3 years old and 38″ (97cm) tall.
- Children between the height of 38″-54″ (97cm – 137cm) must ride with an adult (at least 16 years old).
Location and How To Get There
The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster is located at the base of Peak 8 and the Breckenridge Resort in Colorado.
The most convenient way to get there is via the free gondola known as the BreckConnect.
Directions to the alpine coaster can also be found on the map below:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Breckenridge have an Alpine Coaster?
Breckenridge does have an alpine coaster, known as the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster.
It is a family-friendly activity that operates in both summer and winter!
If you’re looking for another activity in the summer season then make sure you also check out the Breckenridge Alpine Slides.
Where is the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster?
Both the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster and Alpine SuperSlides are located at the base of Peak 8.
The easiest way to get there is to take the free Breckenridge Gondola from Watson Avenue.
How long is the alpine coaster in Breckenridge?
The alpine coaster in Breckenridge, known as the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster, is 2,500 feet (762m) long and has a total ride time of about 4 minutes depending on your speed.
Before You Go..
The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster is just one of 7 mountain coasters in Colorado.
If you’re looking for another Colorado mountain coaster to ride then make sure you check out the following article we wrote: 8 Colorado Mountain Coasters You Must Try
