A new type of adventure and excitement has arrived at many ski resorts and mountainous communities – the mountain coaster! These coasters utilize the natural terrain and elevation changes to combine the thrill of speed and G-forces with the beautiful scenery. I recently experienced two of these coasters (one in North Carolina and one in Wyoming). These coasters combine high-precision engineering and construction with a knowledge of the effect of forces on humans. The coasters can use automated braking systems to limit the maximum speeds. I rode these with my 7-year old son who enthusiastically requested “full-speed and no brakes!” – Daniel Findley, DTC Engineering Economics Instructor
