In an exciting development for thrill-seekers, Carowinds amusement park in Charlotte, North Carolina, has announced the upcoming debut of a groundbreaking attraction, Rip Roarin’ Falls. Scheduled to open in 2027, this log flume ride will not only transform the park’s landscape but also set multiple world records, including the tallest water ride drop at a staggering 100 feet.
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Rip Roarin’ Falls will immerse riders in a captivating narrative centred around an abandoned lumber mill, which has a backstory featuring two fictional brothers, Frederich and Johann Holz. The Holz Brothers Logging Company, founded in the 18th century, was once a thriving enterprise. However, the mill mysteriously fell into disrepair shortly after the construction of a multi-level buzzsaw, leaving behind an intriguing tale that riders will experience as they embark on their adventure.
The ride, which can accommodate up to eight riders per flume, will launch adventurers into an exhilarating journey through a rushing river. After an initial ascent, the flumes will unexpectedly rotate backwards, leading to the world’s tallest reverse drop. Standing at 42 feet, this reverse camelback drop is another record-breaking feature, designed to provide a thrilling airtime experience as riders plunge and then climb back up a slope.
Following this heart-pounding reverse drop, riders will ascend again, preparing for the main spectacle: the 100-foot drop that promises to send them cascading towards the water below at speeds nearing 50 miles per hour. This remarkable descent is expected to be a highlight for park visitors, culminating in an exciting splashdown—ideal for cooling off during the hot Carolina summers. The complete ride experience will span approximately 6 minutes and 30 seconds and will feature a total of 2,240 feet of track.
Bridgette Bywater, the president of Carowinds, voiced her enthusiasm for the attraction, highlighting its innovative design and expansive investment in visitor experiences. “This level of investment and innovation is a true testament of our team’s commitment to bringing legendary attractions and world-class experiences to the Carolinas,” she stated in a recent press release. “As a new signature ride, it combines record-setting thrills and cutting-edge ride innovation—all with a 35-inch height requirement that makes it accessible for families.”
Construction for Rip Roarin’ Falls is already underway, with the attraction being strategically located on the former site of the Rip Roarin’ Rapids ride, which closed in 2019. While the exact opening date has not yet been confirmed, park officials are optimistic that the ride will be ready to welcome its first batch of daring explorers in 2027.
The introduction of Rip Roarin’ Falls is set against Carowinds’ legacy as a hub for record-breaking rides. It follows in the footsteps of Fury 325, a giga coaster that has captivated visitors since its opening in 2015 as the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, standing over 300 feet tall. Furthermore, the park added to its thrilling roster in 2019 with the launch of Copperhead Strike, the first double-launch roller coaster in the Carolinas, solidifying its reputation for exhilarating amusement.
As the park prepares for this momentous addition, excitement is palpable among amusement park enthusiasts. Rip Roarin’ Falls will not only redefine the limits of what’s possible in water rides but also continue the tradition of Carowinds as a premier destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. With a carefully crafted theme, record-breaking features, and a shared adventure waiting for all who dare to take the plunge, this attraction is set to become a beloved highlight in the Carolinas by the time it opens.
For those eager to stay updated on this and future attractions, the park encourages potential visitors to join its newsletter for the latest announcements, ensuring no one misses out on the adventure that lies ahead at Carowinds.