CHARLEMONT ATTRACTION FIELD GUIDE
Thunderbolt Mountain Coaster — a 1,580‑foot climb and a 3,870‑foot plunge through Berkshire forest
At Berkshire East in Charlemont, the Thunderbolt blends alpine slide and roller‑coaster elements; this guide explains the ride’s profile and the reservations, requirements, and check‑in details you need before you go.
Thunderbolt Mountain Coaster — a 1,580‑foot climb and a 3,870‑foot plunge through Berkshire forest.
The Thunderbolt Mountain Coaster at Berkshire East threads a single‑car coaster through dense Berkshire forest: riders are hauled 1,580 feet up-track before their cart disengages and gravity carries them down 3,870 feet of swooping turns, banked corners, rolling drops and even a 360° element. Each cart has its own braking system so riders control speed from a gentle descent to a more aggressive run.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A long climb, an even longer drop
The ride’s signature profile is unmistakable: a 1,580‑foot uphill up-track through forested terrain followed by 3,870 feet of downhill track designed for sustained motion and dramatic elements.
Turns, drops and individual control
The downhill course includes swooping turns, banked corners, rolling drops and a 360° turn; every cart is fitted with an individual braking system so riders can choose a comfortable pace or push for higher forces.
Reservations, tokens and arrival
Reservations are required (walk‑ins may be accommodated if space allows). Tokens from previous seasons are accepted but you must complete an online reservation and bring the Token in person; arrive early to complete check‑in and waivers.
What the day feels like
What the ride feels like
After boarding you ascend through forest on a 1,580‑foot up-track; at the top the cart disengages and gravity takes over, delivering a sustained descent over 3,870 feet of engineered elements. Because each cart has its own brake, the cadence of the run is in the rider’s hands—either a measured scenic run or a faster, more intense experience.
THE PROFILE
A long climb, an even longer drop
The ride’s signature profile is unmistakable: a 1,580‑foot uphill up-track through forested terrain followed by 3,870 feet of downhill track designed for sustained motion and dramatic elements.
THE RIDE
Turns, drops and individual control
The downhill course includes swooping turns, banked corners, rolling drops and a 360° turn; every cart is fitted with an individual braking system so riders can choose a comfortable pace or push for higher forces.
PRACTICALITIES
Reservations, tokens and arrival
Reservations are required (walk‑ins may be accommodated if space allows). Tokens from previous seasons are accepted but you must complete an online reservation and bring the Token in person; arrive early to complete check‑in and waivers.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who should consider this ride — and who should not.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Reservations are required; arrive 15 minutes early to complete check‑in and waivers. If you have a Token from a previous season, complete the online reservation and bring the Token with you or you will be required to pay. Check in at the ticket window by the Mountain Coaster; entrances are located on the left side of the building.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Are reservations required?
Yes. Reservations are required; walk‑ins may be accommodated based on availability but there is no guarantee.
Can I use a Token from a previous season?
Yes. Tokens from previous seasons are accepted, but you must still complete an online reservation and bring the Token when you arrive; if you do not have the Token with you you will be required to pay for the reservation.
What are the minimum age and height requirements?
Minimums: Driver must be at least 9 years old and 52" tall; Rider minimums are 3 years old and 36" tall. Additionally, you must be 16 years or older to have a rider with you.
What is the weight limit per cart?
Maximum weight is 300 pounds total per cart (individual or combined weight).
When should I arrive and where do I check in?
Please arrive 15 minutes early for your scheduled start time to complete check‑in and waivers. Check in at the ticket window by the Mountain Coaster; you will be given your ride tickets and directed to the start time entrance (entrances are on the left side of the building).