Highlights
Timberhawk: The Best Rollercoaster in Washington State
Washington State may not be renowned for its amusement rides, but it boasts the Timberhawk rollercoaster at Wild Waves Theme and Water Park. This park is strategically nestled between Seattle and Tacoma, offering an array of thrilling experiences. Importantly, recent changes have simplified the ticketing process, allowing guests to enjoy both the theme park and water park seamlessly.
Timberhawk stands out as the pinnacle of Washington’s rollercoaster offerings, eclipsing alternatives such as the rollercoaster at the Washington State Fair and the Wild Thing coaster available at Wild Waves.
If you’re eager for an exhilarating rollercoaster experience without venturing to Silverwood in Idaho, Timberhawk is the perfect option for those looking for thrilling rides close to Seattle.
About Timberhawk
Timberhawk, introduced in 2003, is a wooden rollercoaster that reaches heights of 75 feet. With an impressive initial drop and speeds approaching 60 mph, it promises an adrenaline-pumping ride filled with dips, turns, and exhilarating moments within the wooden structure.
Interestingly, the ride is tucked away in a woodland area at the back of Enchanted Village, offering a sense of secluded thrill. Visitors can often experience shorter lines, even during peak summer days, enhancing the enjoyment of this outstanding coaster.
Timberhawk Stats
Timberhawk’s distinctiveness lies in its length and design, making it a unique experience among its competitors at Wild Waves Theme and Water Park. Here are some stats:
- Length: 2,600 feet
- Height: 75 feet
- Speed: 50-60 mph (though it feels faster!)
How does Timberhawk measure up to other area rollercoasters?
In context, Washington State’s rollercoaster offerings are somewhat limited, with Timberhawk being the foremost choice. Competing coasters include the historic ride at the Washington State Fair and the Wild Thing coaster at Wild Waves.
While both competitors are enjoyable, Timberhawk delivers a more dynamic experience with greater variability in its track layout and a heightened first drop. Unlike Timberhawk, the fair coaster is relatively straightforward, and the Wild Thing, while fun, often fails to impress thrill-seekers with its brief duration.
Length Comparison:
Timberhawk – 2,600 feet
Wild Thing (at Wild Waves) – 1,565 feet
Washington State Fair Rollercoaster – 2,650 feet
Height Comparison:
Timberhawk – 75 feet tall
Wild Thing – 75 feet tall
Washington State Fair Rollercoaster – 55 feet tall
Speed Comparison:
Timberhawk – 50-60 mph
Wild Thing – 40 mph
Washington State Fair Rollercoaster – 50 mph
Verdict: Timberhawk takes the crown!
What Else is There to Do at Wild Waves and Enchanted Village
While Timberhawk is undoubtedly a highlight, Wild Waves Theme and Water Park offers much more for guests. Beyond Timberhawk, visitors can engage with a range of rides that provide milder thrills, including Wild Thing, Disk’O Flashback, Timber Axe, and Klondike Gold Rusher. The Soaring Eagle Zip Line is another exciting option, albeit with an additional cost.
For families, the park features several kid-friendly rides and a well-equipped water park packed with thrilling water slides, relaxing pools, and vibrant splash areas.