The Giant Coaster

The Giant Coaster at Crystal Beach was one of the unique "Side Friction" roller coasters. Using no upstops (wheels under the track) this coaster relied on weight to keep the cars on the track. The trains ran in troughs (more or less) around the wood track. Built in 1916 by T.M Harton, it was originally similar to a standard out and back design. Sometime over its lifespan, it was enlarged to more of an L shape. the 2 trains were made up of 3, 6 passenger cars, for a capacity of 18 people. One of only 2 side friction roller coasters in North America at the time, (Leap The Dips is located at Lakemont Park in Altoona, Pa.) the coaster operated until the final day of the park, and was sold off at the big auction for $2500.00. Unfortunatly, the ride proved too costly to relocate, so the owners, from Buffalo, salvaged the trains, and some of the track. What remained was burned on site. The Giant coaster was a favorite of many. The feeling of weightlessness as you bounced around the track, with no seatbelts, lapbelts, or restraining devices of any kind added a certain thill to the ride.