GRAFTON AIR ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
SkyTour to Speed: Riding Illinois’ First Alpine Coaster at Aerie’s Resort
Aerie’s Alpine Coaster in Grafton is a nearly 4,000‑foot gravity coaster reached by the SkyTour aerial lift; this guide outlines what to expect, who it suits, and how to plan your visit.
SkyTour to Speed: Riding Illinois’ First Alpine Coaster at Aerie’s Resort.
Perched above the Mississippi River valley at Aerie’s Resort in Grafton, Illinois’ first alpine coaster delivers a compact, unmistakable rush: a gravity‑fed sled track stretching nearly 4,000 feet with seven hair‑pin turns and eight waves. Built for family groups and friends, the ride pairs a short uphill approach via the SkyTour aerial lift with a fast, twisting descent that has become a signature draw for the resort.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Nearly 4,000 Feet of Gravity‑Fed Track
The coaster’s layout—almost 4,000 feet of track featuring seven tight hair‑pin turns and eight wave sections—creates continuous speed and directional change for a concise, adrenaline‑packed run.
SkyTour Aerial Lift to the Top
Riders access the coaster check‑in at the top of the hill via the SkyTour aerial lift—book lift tickets in advance to ensure you can reach the coaster’s boarding area.
A Family‑Oriented First for Illinois
Marketed as Illinois’ first alpine coaster, the attraction is positioned as a family activity suitable for a broad range of ages and groups.
What the day feels like
What the Experience Feels Like
The sequence is short and focused: ascend to the ridge, check in, then launch onto a gravity coaster that threads seven hair‑pin bends and eight wave sections. The run is engineered for repeated, high‑momentum turns that emphasize speed and change of direction rather than long sustained drops.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this attraction suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The coaster’s hours vary by season; operations are weather dependent. Confirm current open days and hours before you go.
Bring reservations or proof of booking for the SkyTour aerial lift and any online tickets; dress for variable wind and sun on exposed ridgelines.
The listed meeting address is 800 Timber Ridge Dr., Grafton, IL 62037. Book SkyTour aerial lift tickets online to reach the coaster check‑in at the top of the hill.
Plan for a compact experience: one complete coaster ride including the return to the top takes about ten minutes.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the coaster ride?
One complete coaster ride including return to the top takes less than 10 minutes.
How do I get to the coaster check‑in?
You must take the SkyTour aerial lift to reach the Alpine Coaster check‑in at the top of the hill; book lift tickets online in advance.
What ages can ride?
The attraction is advertised for ages 3 and up.
When is the coaster open?
Operations and hours vary by season; the coaster is open Thursday through Sunday, weather permitting—confirm current schedule before visiting.
Where is the meeting location?
The meeting address for the attraction is 800 Timber Ridge Dr., Grafton, IL 62037.
Do I need to book anything in advance?
Yes—book SkyTour aerial lift tickets online to ensure access to the coaster check‑in at the top of the hill.