Canada’s Wonderland, located in Vaughan, Ontario, is currently owned and run by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company and Kings Entertainment Company.
Canada’s Wonderland currently has 62 attractions in the main section of the park and 16 attractions located in the water park section, Splashworks.
Canada’s Wonderland has 7 distinct themed areas including the Action Zone, Frontier Canada, The Grand World Exposition of 1890 International Festival, KidZville, Medieval Faire, and Planet Snoopy.
Note that this post will cover some safety information for riders as well as restrictions for the mentioned rides, while information will be kept up to date, it is still recommended that you contact Guest Services if you have any accessibility needs or questions about specifications prior to arriving at Canada’s Wonderland.
ACTION ZONE
The history of the Action Zone is a bit confusing, as it has been named and renamed a few times, however, as of 2020, the Action Zone is split into two sections: the eastern part being the true “Action Zone” and The Grande Exposition of 1890, which is currently considered a different section of the park.
BACKLOT STUNT COASTER
Manufacturer:
Premier Rides
Type/Model:
Launched roller coaster
Restrictions:
48 inches / 122 cm.
Maximum weight of 300 pounds per rider
Riders with a larger waist size may not be accommodated
Riders must have at least three functioning extremities (ie. one functioning arm and two functioning legs)
Opened:
2005
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Backlot Stunt Coaster:
Originally named the Italian Job: Stunt Track, the Backlot Stunt Coaster is a launched rollercoaster that was designed for three Cedar Fair amusement parks, including Kings Island, Kings Dominion and Canada’s Wonderland.
The Backlot Stunt Coaster was themed based on a chase scene from the movie The Italian Job and originally included special effects such as pyrotechnics and water though they have since been removed to neutralize and distance the ride from referencing the film.
Although the flashy aspects of the Backlot Stunt Coasters have been removed, the track and scenery still resembles that of a chase scene and provides riders with an enjoyable experience, initially launching them from 0-40 miles per hour / 0-64 kilometres per hour within three seconds.
Riders will enjoy standard rollercoaster elements such as banked helixes and overbanked turns.
Originally the trains on the Backlot Stunt Coaster featured 3 MINI Coopers with working doors, though in 2010 they were replaced by simplified trains and the track was altered to no longer include a holding brake stop.
A total of 36 riders can be on the Backlot Stunt Coaster at a time as there are a total of 3 trains that each contain 3 cars with two rows and riders sitting two in a row. Each train can contain a total of 12 riders each.
BEHEMOTH
Manufacturer:
Bolliger & Mabillard
Type/Model:
Hypercoaster
Restrictions:
4 feet 6 inches – 6 feet 8 inches / 137 – 203 centimeters
Due to the type of restraints on Behemoth, riders over a certain weight or waist size cannot be accommodated. There is a test seat located at the entrance of the ride for an attendant to make a qualifying call as to if patrons can ride Behemoth.
Riders must have at least three functioning extremities (ie. one functioning arm and two functioning legs, prosthetics are not a substitute as per manufacturer requirements)
If a rider does not have at least three functioning extremities they may be able to ride the ride if they have two functioning arms and a normal centre of gravity.
Opened:
2008
Fast Lane:
Yes, but only Fast Lane Plus
About Behemoth:
Originally the tallest and fastest roller coasters in Canada, Behemoth resembles large Hypercoasters such as Diamondback (Kings Island), Intimidator (Carowinds), Goliath (La Ronde) and Nitro (Six Flags Great Adventure).
Behemoth at it’s tallest is 230 feet / 70 meters and reaches speeds as fast as 77 miles per hour / 124 kilometres per hour.
Behemoth does not contain any inversions and is considered to be one of the most aggressive thrill rides at Canada’s Wonderland, though, as someone who frequents the coaster, I can say that Behemoth has one of the smoothest ride experiences of all the coasters.
Behemoth contains 5 air-time hills, a hammerhead turn and two helixes, lasting for around three minutes.
One of the most notable characteristics of Behemoth is its trains as they are staggered in a v-shape in order to ensure that all riders have an unobstructed view. Though, it should be noted that riders will have much a calmer experience when riding on inner seats than when riding on outer seats, as the outer seats may cause riders to feel like they are going to “fall off the ride.”
To continue supporting the feeling of “falling out of the ride” the trains on Behemoth only contain a lap bar harness and a seatbelt, allowing riders to maximize the feeling of airtime while riding the coaster.
I would highly recommend raising your hands while riding Behemoth, especially on the second hill onward as the speed and air time feels like nothing else… well except for maybe Leviathan.
Unshockingly, Behemoth was the first rollercoaster to ever feature these seats though Bolliger & Mabillard continued to produce these trains for other crowd favourites.
A total of 3 trains can be run on Behemoth at a time, each containing 8 four-seater cars amounting to 32 riders per train and 96 riders in total.
Due to the height of Behemoth, riders should be able to clearly see the CN Tower from the ride.
Behemoth is considered an “Out and Back” roller coaster.
Note: Photos are taken on this ride and can be purchased after riding
PSYCLONE
Manufacturer:
Mondial
Type/Model:
Frisbee/Revolution
Restrictions:
4 feet 6 inches / 137 centimetres
Guests of a larger size may not be accommodated
Guests must have a minimum of two functioning extremities (ie. one functioning leg and one functioning arm)
Opened:
2002
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Psyclone:
Although my friends and I think Psyclone is poorly named and should be named “Sledge Hammer” instead of… well Sledge Hammer, Pysclone proves to be an exciting thrill ride.
Psyclone seats a maximum of 40 patrons and features a circular pendulum that reaches a maximum angle of 120°, rotating while swinging above the various scenery at Canada’s Wonderland.
The ride experience lasts around 2-minutes at a time and will feel like a more intense version of a swinging ship as a rider’s feet will be exposed and they will directly face the ground while being held by their shoulder restraints.
Although it is advisable that patrons only wear shoes with laces while entering the park, patrons who are wearing slippers, flip-flops or other non-secure shoes will be asked to remove them before the ride undocks.
The restraints used on this ride are similar to those on a looping steel coaster, like Dragon Fyre or The Bat.
SKYHAWK
Manufacturer:
Gerstlauer
Type/Model:
Sky Roller
Restrictions:
4 feet / 122 centimeters
Riders must have access to at least two functioning extremities (ie. one functioning arm and one functioning leg to meet the manufacturer’s requirements. Note that prosthetics are not classified as substitutes for leg amputations and will not be permitted on this ride and arm prosthetics must be properly secured
Opened:
2016
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Skyhawk:
Skyhawk is a unique ride, being the first in North America of it’s kind, allowing riders to take control of their own plane.
Riders will be given the opportunity to ride the 135-foot tower, being shortly briefed on how pressing down on the wings of the plane will allow them to flip themselves in a complete 360° circle.
Riders do not have to take part in flipping themselves upside down if they would not like to, however, the number of flips a patron successfully completes will be tracked and displayed at the end of the ride, along with a photo of the patron.
Riders will be held down by a shoulder harness as well as a safety belt that will ensure that the rider does not fall out.
As riders will be in control of the movements and rotations while riding Skyhawk
SLEDGE HAMMER
Manufacturer:
HUSS Park Attractions
Type/Model:
Giant Jump 2
Restrictions:
4 feet 6 inches / 137 cm
Riders must have access to at least two functioning extremities (ie. one functioning arm and one functioning leg to meet the manufacturer’s requirements.
Two functioning arms are sufficient instead of one functioning arm and one functioning leg if the guest has a normal centre of gravity
Opened:
2003
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Sledge Hammer:
By far one of the most exciting rides at Canada’s Wonderland, Sledge Hammer is actually the first and only Giant Jump 2 in the world. Reason being? It has some serious mechanical issues that either causes the ride to remain completely shut down or experience repeated closures.
Most often the restraints will cease, leaving riders on for extended periods of time, though at this time there have been no reports of injuries caused by the ride’s mechanical failures, shutting down more often since the 2010 season.
Due to the mechanical issues involved with Sledge Hammer, I would recommend heading to it early in the morning to ensure that you get a ride in before it inevitably has to be troubleshot as attendants will not “hold your spot” or allow you to “skip the line” once it reopens. Sadly, I have been in this situation a number of times over the years, making Sledge Hammer a “first thing in the morning” kind of ride for me.
Mechanical issues aside, Sledge Hammer features 6 claw-looking arms that seat a maximum of 8 people each. Each claw rotates in circles and is lifted up and down away from the center of the ride. A total of 48 riders can be on Sledge Hammer at a time, though in my experience maximum capacity is rarely reached due to claws being “out of service.”
In its current state, Sledge Hammer’s experience lasts around two minutes and subjects riders to some quick and “spontaneous” bursts up into the air and drops back to the ground.
Due to the fact that riders are being spun around at the same time, riders may face the ground or the sky while they are being flung around, making Sledge Hammer a unique experience for each seat.
SLINGSHOT
Manufacturer:
Funtime
Type/Model:
Sling Shot
Restrictions:
4 feet – 6 feet 7 inches / 122 centimetres – 200 centimetres
Guests must be at least 110 pounds combined
Larger guests may not be accommodated due to the types of restraints on this ride
Guests must have a minimum of two functioning extremities (ie. one functioning arm and one functioning leg)
Two functioning arms are considered sufficient as long as the guest has a normal center of gravity and are able to remain safe under the dynamic conditions of this ride
Opened:
2015
Fast Lane:
No, though it must be noted that SlingShot is PAY-PER-RIDE
About Slingshot:
Acting like a child’s slingshot, Slingshot secures riders in a seated capsule which gets released, shooting riders into the air via bungee cords nearly up to 300 feet / 91.5 metres into the air at the speed of 62 miles per hour / 100 kilometres per hour.
Riders will be secured with an over-the-shoulder restraint, though riders will experience a different ride experience based on their weight and the wind that day.
Note that a maximum of two riders can be on this ride at once, though riders can be launched on their own.
WINDSEEKER
Manufacturer:
Mondial
Type/Model:
Wind Seeker
Restrictions:
4 feet 4 inches / 132 centimetres
Riders must be under 305lbs to ride
Guests must have a minimum of two functioning extremities (ie. one functioning arm and one functioning leg, which is amputated below the knee.)
Guests with cervical collar braces, neck braces, broken collar bone(s), braced arm casts or full leg casts will not be permitted on the ride.
Warning:
Strobe Lights
Opened:
2011
Fast Lane:
Yes
About WindSeeker:
WindSeeker is an extremely tall ride, being likened to a 27-floor building as it stands 301-feet tall.
While admittedly I’m a bit terrified and haven’t personally ridden the ride, I do understand the appeal of riding WindSeeker, especially for folks who enjoy scenic rides that don’t offer much variance.
WindSeeker’s arms will swing at a 45-degree angle and spins at 50 kilometres per hour, providing a bright light show for riders who come visit Wonderland at night.
WindSeeker is a thrilling ride that lasts for three minutes and ride experiences may vary based on the weather.
Speaking of weather, availability to ride WindSeeker may vary based on the weather as on very windy days WindSeeker’s cars tend to swing too far, making them unsafe for riders.
Riders are held into the ride by individual lap bars and a seatbelt across the thighs and pelvis, ultimately securing them from falling.
I would recommend coming to Wonderland during nighttime, even if you aren’t planning on giving it a ride.
FRONTIER CANADA
Although many of the rides in Frontier Canada are dated or have been in the park for some time, Frontier Canada is the newest themed section of Canada’s Wonderland, being debuted in the 2019 season.
Frontier Canada pays tribute to Dawson City, Yukon and the history of the Klondike Gold Rush.
It is speculated that Canada’s Wonderland is going to be hyper-focusing on this area as it contains a good amount of unused land.
ACTION THEATRE
Manufacturer:
Iwerks Entertainment
Type/Model:
A theatre that has both 3D and 4D capabilities
Restrictions:
No currently known restrictions as restrictions depend on the film or performance that is being commissioned
Opened:
1994
Fast Lane:
No
About Action Theatre:
The Action Theatre is an attraction at Canada’s Wonderland that is not used as often as it used to be when it was originally commissioned.
Shows that have run in this establishment include Days of Thunder (DoT) and The Dinosaurs 4D movie.
At this time it seems like the Action Theatre is predominantly being used for the park’s seasonal Halloween Haunt event.
FLYING CANOES
Manufacturer:
Preston & Barbieri
Type/Model:
Avio
Restrictions:
Riders must be 3 feet in order to ride this ride but must be accompanied by a companion unless they are 4 feet tall.
Riders must have a minimum of two functioning extremities, being one functioning arm and one functioning leg.
Riders will be able to ride if they have two functioning arms if the guest has a normal centre of gravity and their lower extremities are strong enough to support the weight against restraint under dynamic conditions.
Guests with a cervical collar or neck brace will not be permitted to ride
Opened:
2018
Fast Lane:
No
About Flying Canoes:
Flying Canoes is a family ride that provides riders with a unique ride experience as similar to rides like Skyhawk, riders are in control of their own experiences.
Riders will spin around in circles, though riders will have the opportunity to hold down a button on their canoe in order to raise them into the air if riders let go of the button they will be slowly brought down.
Although Flying Canoes can be enjoyed by riders of all ages for its smooth and gentle experience, younger riders may enjoy the experience more as this ride is meant to spark a rider’s imagination.
It should be noted that there is water under this ride and riders will get fairly close to it, though it should also be noted that there is no way to get wet on this ride.
Riders are held in using a shared lap bar, though they are provided individual seatbelts. For added safety smaller riders, in essence, those who need to be accompanied must sit on the inside of the seat.
LUMBERJACK
Manufacturer:
Zamperla
Type/Model:
Hawk 48
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 4 feet to ride
Due to the over the shoulder harnesses and restraints, Lumberjack may not be able to accommodate larger guests, though a test seat is located at the entrance of the line to gauge for safety and comfort.
Guests must have a minimum of two functioning extremities excluding all prosthetics. The requirement is one functioning hand and one functioning leg with a functioning foot.
No prosthetics are permitted on this ride and guests with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm cast, braced arm casts, or full leg cats will not be permitted on this ride.
Opened:
2018
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Lumberjack:
Years ago at Canada’s Wonderland, there was an amazing ride called Jet Scream, that much like a swinging ship would rock riders from side to side, ultimately flipping them by 360° upon reaching full momentum. Well, to fill the missing void Jet Scream left after being defunct, Lumberjack was introduced.
Unlike Jet Scream, riders will be seated in multiple cars, using two hydraulic arms to swing in a circular motion in order to allow them to swing in a 360° loop.
Riders will reach up to 75 feet (or 22 metres) in height when upside down, comparing to a large inverted roller coaster.
Note that this ride will invert you both backwards and forwards, making the ride experience fairly comparable no matter what seat or car you are sitting in.
MIGHTY CANADIAN MINEBUSTER
Manufacturer:
Taft Broadcasting (Curtis D. Summers)
Type/Model:
Wooden Roller Coaster
Restrictions:
Riders must be a minimum of 4 feet tall
There are individual lap restraints and seatbelts that secure riders, meaning that guests who are larger in size may not be able to be accommodated on this ride.
Guests must have a minimum of three functioning extremities, though two functioning arms are considered sufficient if the rider has a normal centre of gravity and lower extremities are sufficiently strong enough to maintain proper riding posture.
Guests with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm cats, braced arm cats or full leg casts will not be permitted to ride the Mighty Canadian Minebuster.
Opened:
1981
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Mighty Canadian Minebuster:
Another classic roller coaster at Canada’s Wonderland, the Mighty Canadian Minebuster is Canada’s largest wooden rollercoaster, coming in at 3559 feet or 1085 metres.
The Mighty Canadian Minebuster is also known as one of the original four roller coasters that opened with the park.
Due to the fact that the Mighty Canadian Minebuster is a wooden roller coaster and the fact that it has been active for over three decades, the ride experience is quite bumpy, though still pretty enjoyable.
Riders will feel like they are lifting out of their seats on many of the steep drops, similar to Behemoth or akin roller coasters with lap restraints. Air time is one of the best features on the Mighty Canadian Minebuster, being the ultimate reason I can forgive the bumpy ride experience.
I would highly recommend raising your hands for this ride, since it makes the experience that much more fun, due to the air time.
Other cool features of the Mighty Canadian Minebuster include the fact that the track goes under a number of Splash Works rides, giving a little sneak peek into a section of the park many don’t visit often or get a chance to regularly see.
The Mighty Canadian Minebuster is considered an “Out and Back” roller coaster.
Riders should note that they will make their way through an enclosed metal tunnel/shed that both amplifies and echos the sound of the trains that go through as well as the screaming of passengers.
Unfortunately, as exciting as going through the metal enclosure is, riders who are sensitive to loud noises should be warned as many passengers tend to scream during this section, being the source of many headaches for me.
I would also recommend bracing yourself for a jolty ending for the ride as the Mighty Canadian Minebuster will take riders through the break section rather quickly, jutting riders forward if they are not prepared.
The total ride time of the Mighty Canadian Minebuster sits at around 2 minutes and there are 2 trains with 5 cars that each seat 30 people, meaning that a total of 60 people can ride at a time.
There is usually no wait required when riding the Mighty Canadian Minebuster, though wait time will obviously vary on the day.
SOARING TIMBERS
Manufacturer:
Mondial
Type/Model:
Inferno
Restrictions:
Riders must be a minimum of 4 feet and 6 inches tall to ride Soaring Timbers
Due to the shoulder harness that also restrains riders between the legs, guests who are larger in size may not be able to be accommodated on this ride.
Guests are required to have a minimum of two functioning extremities including one functioning arm and one functioning leg, due to the manufacturer’s requirements, prosthetics are not considered substitutes for this ride.
If guests are hoping to ride Soaring Timbers with any prosthesis, they will have to consult with Guest Services prior to waiting in line.
Riders who have two functioning arms will be permitted to ride as long as they have a normal centre of gravity and lower extremities are strong enough to support the weight against the restraint.
Guests will not be permitted to ride if they have a cervical collar, neck brace, cast(s) or broken collar bone.
Warning:
Strobe Lights
Opened:
2017
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Soaring Timbers:
Soaring Timbers is truly a sight to see as it features a single arm that houses a car that is made of two gondolas.
Both the gondolas and the arm rotate by 360°, though the arm rotates at a 45° angle. as the gondolas flip independently.
Riders will be lifted about water, trees and will get a nice view of the guests below them, although they may be more preoccupied with being held upside down.
The maximum height a rider will reach is 66 feet or 20 metres and guests will expect to be flipped upside down at various heights along the ride, due to the spinning arm.
It should be noted that riders may feel jeered or tossed during this ride, simply due to the nature of it, and riders will feel like they are falling out of their seats while hanging upside down.
Soaring Timbers is the first of its kind in North America and seats a maximum of 38 guests.
TIMBERWOLF FALLS
Manufacturer:
Hopkin Rides
Type/Model:
Shoot-the-Chutes
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 3 feet 10 inches to ride Timberwolf Falls
Riders must have a minimum of two functioning extremities, including one functioning arm and one functioning leg.
Riders with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm casts, braced arm casts, full arm casts or full leg casts will not be permitted to ride.
Opened:
1989
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Timberwolf Falls:
Although Timberwolf Falls doesn’t have a very exciting track, though that is fairly true of the majority of Shoot-the-Chute water rides.
Riders will be taken up a twenty seater boat that is taken up a 49-foot lift (15 metres) that will make a 180° turn where it is met by a slope that rapidly drops riders, though speed will depend on the weight of the passengers.
At the bottom of the drop is a bridge/platform where non-riders can stand and experience the “Splash Zone.”
Non-riders can head to this zone through the exit of Timberwolf Falls and will often get wetter than riders themselves.
It is recommended that children do not stand unaccompanied in the “Splash Zone” as the force of the wave can be quite brutal, pushing guests backwards, though guests can also hang onto the bridge’s railing in order to keep balance.
It is strongly recommended that parents stand behind their children to keep them in place.
Timberwolf Falls has a total of 5 boats, though depending on how busy the park is that day only 3 may be running.
Capacity sits between 80 and 100 guests at a time and the ride lasts about 2 minutes and 40 seconds.
VORTEX
Manufacturer:
Arrow Dynamics
Type/Model:
Steel Suspended Roller Coaster
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 4 feet or 122 centimetres to ride Vortex
Due to the over the shoulder harnesses that are used as restraints, larger riders may not be accommodated on this ride.
Guests must have a minimum of two functioning extremities including one functioning arm and one functioning leg.
Riders will be permitted to ride if they have two functioning arms if the guest is able to form a staddle posture and are able to brace themselves upright in the seat against the shoulder harness.
Guests will not be permitted to ride Vortex if they have a cervical collar, neck brace, broken collar bone, full arm cast, braced arm cast or full leg cast.
Opened:
1991
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Vortex:
To be completely honest, I had no clue that Vortex was so old since I have one of those false memories that I was alive when it was announced that Vortex was being constructed. That is obviously not true.
Vortex is actually my husband’s favourite ride, being the theme park’s first suspended roller coasters and by far the park’s best suspended roller coaster in my opinion.
Vortex provides riders with an amazingly scenic ride, taking them over Wonder Mountain, dropping them down the side of the mountain close to the waters and around Yukon Striker.
Vortex has one of the smoothest ride experiences, especially for such an old roller coaster.
Vortex reaches a maximum height of 98-feet (90 metres) and reaches speeds of around 80 kilometres per hour, which is actually classified as one of the fastest of its kind.
My favourite aspect of Vortex is the fact that each of the four-seater cars independently swings, making the ride experience fairly unique each time for riders.
Vortex lasts for about 1 minute and 36 seconds and can allow for 48 riders at a time.
Due to the speed of Vortex and the fact that cars can independently swing, riders will swing from side to side as they go through the brake run. Quite frankly, I’m a fan of Vortex’s brake run… I’m a fan of it all!
WHITE WATER CANYON
Manufacturer:
Intamin
Type/Model:
River Rapids Rides
Restrictions:
Guests must be at least 3 feet and 10 inches tall or 117 centimetres and cannot be taller than 6 feet 4 inches or 193 centimetres tall
Guests must have a minimum of three functioning extremities though riders can ride if they have two functioning arms and a normal centre of gravity with lower extremities being sufficiently strong enough to maintain proper riding posture under dynamic conditions.
Guests with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm cats or braced arm casts will not be permitted on the ride.
Opened:
1983
Fast Lane:
No
About White Water Canyon:
White Water Canyon is a “fun for the whole family” kind of ride, that offers a good amount of thrill and a decent amount of splash!
Riders will need to get onto their circular rafts while walking across a spinning platform in order to get onto the ride. Similar to Time Warp, rafts do not take time to stop, making speed of the utmost importance when trying to board the ride.
Speaking of the loading platform, it should be noted that riders will not be able to leave any of their belongings on the platform, including things like shoes, bags and other loose articles.
Riders are asked to take their belongings onto the raft, running the risk of getting them wet or even soaked, though riders are strongly encouraged to leave their belongings with a non-rider.
Depending on availability, riders may also use one of the rental lockers found around the theme park.
White Water Canyon has a fairly smooth ride, though intensity will completely depend on the riders as they are in control of how fast rafts spin or crash into wall by using their weight to tilt or rock the raft.
Elements on White Water Canyon include waterfalls, high-speed rapids, canyons and geysers that non-riders can pay to use to splash riders.
While riders share a lap seatbelt with another the individual next to them, there is enough slack for riders to shift their weight in order to force the raft to crash into walls, rapids or even other rafts.
Riders will not be able to get out of their seats and there are a number of watchtowers along the way that house Canada’s Wonderland employees who are not afraid to get onto a loudspeaker and scold riders who are not following the rules, especially if they are participating in behaviour that may harm other riders.
It is strongly recommended and as mentioned, actionable, that guests do not try to stand while riding White Water Canyon. If riders fail to comply, they will be ejected or removed from the park, as they would be on any other ride.
As a final note, riders should know that they may not be able to choose who is on their raft, as riders with less than 5-6 in their party may actually be asked to board with another group.
In a situation where riders are boarded with guests who they are not familiar with, guests are asked to respect the needs and wants of their fellow riders as White Water Canyon can quickly become an “us versus them” kind of ride.
All-in-all, White Water Canyon is one of my favourite rides to decompress on, have a bit of fun and get cool for the afternoon.
YUKON STRIKER
Manufacturer:
Bolliger & Mabillard
Type/Model:
Dive Coaster
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 4 foot 8 inches / 132 centimetres and a maximum of 6 feet and 5 inches / 196 centimetres tall
Yukon Striker has an over the shoulder restraint with a between-the-legs seatbelt, making it difficult to accommodate larger guests. There is a test seat located at the ride entrance to ensure a proper fit and comfort.
Guests must have a minimum of three functioning extremities including a functioning arm that includes a hand.
Two functioning arms are considered sufficient if the guest has a normal center of gravity and their lower extremities are sufficiently strong enough to maintain a proper riding posture, though amputations must be below the knee.
Guests who have cervical collars, neck braces or broken collar bones will not be permitted on the ride.
Casts and prosthetics are not permitted on the ride, though guests with certain amputations may be able to ride with the use of a separate full body harness which can be clarified at Guest Services prior to entering the park.
Due to the car type on Yukon Striker, guests will need to take several steps on their own, or with the assistance of a companion and will need to either elevate themselves into their seat or have the companion assist them.
Warnings:
Strobe Lights
Magnetic Systems
Opened:
2019
Fast Lane:
Fast Lane Plus
Single Rider Lane:
Yes
About Yukon Striker:
Yukon Striker is truly a first of it’s kind, especially at Canada’s Wonderland.
If any of you are big fans of Roller Coaster Tycoon, or games adjacent to RCT, you’ve probably seen a dozen dive coasters and have been waiting for the day we have our very own at Canada’s Wonderland, well 2019 was the year!
Yukon Striker contains 4 inversions and reaches speeds of 130 kilometres / 80 miles per hour and lasting about 3 minutes and 25 seconds long.
Inversions include a 360° loop, zero-g rolls and an Immelmann loop.
Cool talking points about Yukon Striker are the facts that it is currently the fastest dive coaster in the world, the tallest, standing at 245 feet / 75 metres and is the longest, stretching out to 3625 feet / 1105 metres.
Yukon Striker also has a portion of the ride that goes underground, though riders are not in the dark as long as other rides like Thunder Run or Wonder Mountain’s Guardian.
Not only will guests go underground, but guests will also be held for 3-seconds over a 90° drop before they plummet down the tracks and through a 360° loop, which has never been seen on a dive coaster.
Notably, Yukon Striker can seat 24 riders per train as each of the 3 cars can seat 8 guests at a time. The total ridership at a time can be a maximum of 72.
GRANDE WORLD EXPOSITION OF 1890
Being one of the first original themed areas of Wonderland, the Grande Wold Exposition of 1890 is exactly as its name suggests, being a themed area that is meant to resemble a world’s fair from the late 19th century.
Although many restaurants and washrooms were themed based on different cultural references, it seems like there is currently a split of references, modernizing the theme to suit both the Action Zone and the Grande World Exposition of 1890 theme.
As of the publishing of this article, the Action Zone and Grand World Exposition of the 1890 section are separate from each other, though between 2009-2019 they were both considered one section.
ANTIQUE CARROUSEL
Manufacturer:
Philadelphia Toboggan Company
Type/Model:
Carousel Ride
Restrictions:
None
Opened:
1981
Fast Lane:
No
About Antique Carrousel:
Originally located in the Palisades Park, New Jersey, the Antique Carrousel is a staple of Canada’s Wonderland.
The Antique Carrousel features 64 original hand-carved horses and riders have the option of either riding stationary chariots, horses or horses that go up and down.
The Antique Carrousel does not have a height restriction, however, the park requires that adults accompany their children on the ride.
FLIGHT DECK
Manufacturer:
Vekoma
Type/Model:
Suspended Looping Coaster
Restrictions:
Riders must be a minimum of 4 foot 4 inches and can only be a maximum of 6 feet 6 inches
Due to the harnesses being over the shoulder, riders who are larger may not be accommodated.
Guests must have sufficient lower extremities to ensure that the ride restraint is able to adequately retrain them, though riders can either have one functioning arm and one functioning leg.
Riders can ride with two functioning arms as long as they are able to hold themselves upright in their seat.
Riders with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm cast, braced arm cast, or full leg cats will not be ride Flight Deck.
Leg prosthetics are not permitted on Flight Deck unless they are soundly secured, riders can consult with Guest Services to confirm whether or not they will be permitted.
Opened:
1995
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Flight Deck:
Flight Deck, originally known as Top Gun, is a bit of a right of passage for roller coaster riders who like to be flung around, especially upside down.
I have to say that Flight Deck has made it onto my list of “no-longer ride” roller coasters simply due to how rough the ride has become over the years.
A fun fact, that isn’t really all that fun is the fact that both Flight Deck’s track, as well as the trains on it, have been there since 1995. It is believed that the lack of new trains on Flight Deck has lead to the uncomfortable ride experience many patrons have reported over the years.
Flight Deck has a moderate amount of inversions, coming in at 5 and times about 1 minute and 28 seconds.
Although many aspects of scenery have been leftover from when Flight Deck was named Top Gun, the trains have been renamed from Maverick and Iceman to Firehawk and Raptor.
SWING OF THE CENTURY
Manufacturer:
Zierer
Type/Model:
Wave Swinger
Restrictions:
Riders must be a minimum of 4 feet to ride Swing of the Century (132–198 centimetres)
A rider’s maximum weight must be under 230lbs
Riders must have a minimum of three functioning extremities, though two functioning arms are considered sufficient if the rider has a normal center of gravity and the lower extremities are sufficiently strong to remain in proper riding posture.
Guests with cervical collars, neck braces, braced arm cast or full leg casts will not be permitted to ride.
Riders will have to take several independent steps or with the assistance of a companion as and riders must be elevated into a seat either with assistance or independently.
Opened:
1981
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Swing of the Century:
Swing of the Century, to me, is a Canada’s Wonderland classic, being one of those rides that the whole family can ride together.
The ride experience of Swing of the Century is fairly gentle, while still being enjoyable and thrilling for younger riders.
I personally prefer riding Swing of the Century at night, especially if there is a gentle breeze as Swing of the Century has some night low lighting to set the mood for a tranquil evening.
Swing of the Century has a decent capacity, taking up to 48 riders and meaning that turnover times are fairly regular.
Although it may seem odd, Swing of the Century’s restraint is actually fairly basic, only being a thin metal bar that is fastened to your seat with a seatbelt. Due to the nature of the restraints and the fact that it is an older ride, riders above a certain weight cannot be accommodated.
TIME WARP
Manufacturer:
Zamperla
Type/Model:
Volare
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 4 foot 6 inches to ride Time Warp
Riders must have at least three functioning extremities including one functioning arm and two functioning legs.
Guests with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm cast, braced arm cast or full leg cats will not be permitted on this ride.
Opened:
2004
Fast Lane:
Yes
About Time Warp:
Time Warp is one of those rollercoasters that for me I continuously “deadname” by mistake.
Once known as Tomb Raider, when Paramount used to own Canada’s Wonderland, Time Warp is a unique roller coaster, being the first of its kind in Canada.
Time Warp is a 4-seater flying roller coaster that was originally designed for the movie Lara Craft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life.
Riders begin by loading their cars facing down while the car progresses through the station. Riders must move quickly as the vehicles will not stop and will continue travelling through the station towards a horizontal lift.
Time Warp has a unique lift in the sense that cars are rotated using a spiral lift that rotates, pushing the cars up the hill until they are pushed at the top diving down the track where they will go through two inversions and multiple twists and hills.
The last time I got to ride Time Warp, it was a bit rocky, making the experience not too pleasant. So, if you’re someone who has a similar ride choice to mine… someone who hates his head being bopped around everywhere as if it is a useless hunk of nothing… I’d say ride this guy as one of your last rides for the day.
Time Warp feels fairly jolty at points, given the sharp turns on the ride, but I have to applaud it for what it provides, an acrobatic approach to roller coasters.
The unfortunate thing about Time Warp is the fact that riders will no longer be able to enjoy the ride as it was originally intended, being that after Paramount sold Canada’s Wonderland they removed the special effects that included pyrotechnics, scenery styled to keep in theme with Tomb Raider including Lara Croft’s tent, motorcycles, depictions of Buddhist and Hindu deities, terracotta Chinese soldiers, rope fences as well as bat sounds that looped in the station.
Time Warp usually takes 1 minute and 4 seconds to complete a ride and there are a total of 7 trains with single cars, each housing 4 riders amounting to 28 riders on at a time.
XTREME SKYFLYER
Manufacturer:
Skycoaster
Type/Model:
Skycoaster
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 3 feet and 6 inches
The maximum weight of all three riders cannot exceed 850lbs
Riders must have a minimum of one functioning leg and two arms sufficient for the proper functioning of the flight suit.
There may be some exceptions depending on a rider’s center of gravity.
Riders with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm cats, braced arm cats or full leg cats will not be permitted to ride Xtreme Skyflyer.
Opened:
1996
Fast Lane:
No, though it should be noted that Xtereme Skyflyer is a PAY-PER-RIDE attraction
About Xtreme Skyflyer:
Xtreme Skyflyer is described as a thrill ride that provides skydiving, gliding and swinging experience.
Riders will face down as they are strapped into a harness and lifted 153 feet into the air where riders will be instructed to pull on a ripcord.
Harnesses willfully support the rider in a prone position, attached to flight support cables.
Upon pulling the ripcord, players will be hurled downwards, reaching speeds up to 90 kilometres per hour, ultimately leading riders to swing back and forth until they lose momentum.
INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
THE BAT
Manufacturer:
Vekoma
Type/Model:
Boomerang Roller Coaster
Restrictions:
Riders will have to be at least 4 feet tall to ride The Bat
Due to the type of over the shoulder restraints that The Bat contains, larger guests may not be accommodated on this ride.
Guests must have at least two functioning extremities including one functioning arm and one functioning leg, though two functioning arms are considered sufficient instead as long as the guest is able to form a saddle posture with leg remnants sufficient enough to brace themselves upright in the seat against the shoulder harness.
Guests with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm casts, braced arm casts, or a full leg cast will not be permitted to ride.
Opened:
1987
Fast Lane:
No
Single Rider Line:
Yes
About The Bat:
The Bat is another one of my favourite roller coasters to ride at Canada’s Wonderland as it has a short ride length, coming in at about a minute and a half, though The Bat does provide a fairly unique ride as riders will get to ride the track both backward and forwards.
At first, riders will be dragged backwards up a hill until they are at the top of the first lift hill. Depending on the attendant, riders may receive a count down where they will be warned that they are about to be dropped forward completing the track that contains half loops, corkscrews and finally a full 360° loop that leads into another lift hill that drops guests backwards to complete the track once more.
Guests will never be warned that they are about to be dropped backwards, so if you’re someone who wants to know… well, you’re just going to have to listen closely to when the ride ultimately unlatches the train from the lift chain.
Due to how short The Bat’s ride experience is, line ups shouldn’t take too long, though riders can also bypass the majority of lines if they are a single rider as many families contain odd numbers of folks and the single-rider lane tends to be very small.
Shockingly, although The Bat was installed in 1987, it still provides a very smooth ride experience.
Fun Fact: The train used on The Bat was originally a train from Dragon Fyre, though the park ultimately decided that Dragon Fyre does not need three trains and could depend on two.
THE FLY
Manufacturer:
Mack Rides
Type/Model:
Wild Mouse Roller Coaster
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 3 foot 8 inches / 112 centimetres to ride The Fly, though they must be accompanied unless they are above 4 foot 6 inches / 137 centimetres.
Due to the nature of the restraints, being that they are a shared lap bar and individual seatbelt, larger riders may not be accommodated.
Guests must have a minimum of three functioning extremities to ride The Fly.
Guests with vertical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm casts or full leg casts will not be permitted to ride The Fly.
Warning:
Stobe Lights
Opened:
1999
Fast Lane:
No
About:
The Fly is a great intermediate roller coaster for the whole family to ride, especially if family members have already tried out other coasters in Kidzville or Planet Snoopy and want a bit more of an intense ride.
The Fly is admittedly an extremely fun roller coaster for its many drops and hills, though I must say that I am not the biggest fan of its sharp turns.
Being that The Fly is a wild mouse coaster, the sharp turns will make riders feel like they are falling off the edge of the ride, especially due to the fact that there isn’t much protection for riders from the outside elements. Of course whether or not a rider enjoys the sharp turns will be based on personal preference.
If you hope to ride The Fly, I would recommend heading to the park early as wait lines tend to be very long for this sucker, especially because it is a full family attraction. Unfortunately, wait times have been upwards of an hour at times, making hot summer days the worst time to visit this attraction.
Note: Photos are taken on this ride and can be purchased after riding
KLOCKWERKS
Manufacturer:
Huss
Type/Model:
Swing Around
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 3 foot 8 inches / 112 centimetres to ride The Fly, though they must be accompanied unless they are 4 feet / 122 centimetres tall.
Riders must have a minimum of two functioning extremities, being one functioning arm and one functioning leg.
Two functioning arms are considered sufficient for this ride as long as the rider has a normal center of gravity and can sufficiently support weight against the restraints under dynamic conditions. Amputations must be at the knee or below.
Guests with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, or braced arm casts will not be permitted to ride Klockwerks.
Opened:
1981
Fast Lane:
Yes
About:
Klockwerks is another one of those “fun for the whole family” kind of rides and truthfully, Klockwerks is one of my favourite gentle rides to ride, especially at night.
Klockwerks has 14 arms that alternate from upward and downward position, essentially swinging riders out from the center of the ride.
Unlike rides like Swing of the Century, Klockwerks is a much more controlled experience as Klockwerks’ arms do not allow for extra momentum or swing.
Although Knockwerks is a more controlled experience, there have been times where attendants have manipulated, lengthened or changed the ride experienced based on the excitement of riders. There is no guarantee on whether or not the ride experience will be extended as this highly depends on the ridership for the day and which attendant is present.
Whether you’re a kid just wanting to have a blast or an adult who’s taking your partner to a romantic evening to the park, enjoy Knockwerk’s light show that is built into the ride itself.
KRACHENWAGEN
Manufacturer:
Lusse Bros.
Type/Model:
Bumper Cars
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 4 feet / 122 centimetres tall to ride Krachenwagen, though riders must be accompanied if they are below 4 feet 6 inches / 137 centimetres tall.
Guests must have a minimum of three functioning extremities.
Guests with vertical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones or braced arm casts will not be permitted to ride Krachenwagen.
Guests with visual impairments must ride with another passenger who does not have visual impairments.
Guests who are not able to steer or press the accelerator on the bumper car must have a companion accompany them to drive.
Opened:
1981
Fast Lane:
Yes
About:
There’s not really much that I can say about Krachenwagen, especially because there is nothing special about it.
Krachenwagen is definitely a “fun for the whole family” kind of ride, though I’m personally not the biggest fan of it as a rider’s experience will highly depend on other riders.
The unfortunate reality of Krachenwagen is that many riders end up getting stuck, making it very difficult to move around the track as any subsequent rider. What does that mean? You’re probably going to spend a number of seconds just chilling with everyone on the ride until other riders reconfigure themselves in order to continue driving around the circuit.
SHOCKWAVE
Manufacturer:
Mondial
Type/Model:
Top Scan
Restrictions:
Riders must be at least 4 foot 6 inches / 137 centimetres tall to ride Shockwave
Due to the fact that Shockwave has over the shoulder harnesses that include a between-the-legs seatbelt, larger guests may not be accommodated on Shockwave.
Guests must have a minimum of two functioning extremities being one functioning arm and one functioning leg, though two arms are considered sufficient if guests have a normal centre of gravity and lower extremities are sufficiently strong enough to support the weight against restraints under dynamic conditions.
Guests with cervical collars, neck braces, broken collar bones, full arm casts, braced arm casts or full leg casts will not be permitted to ride Shockwave.
If guests are hoping to ride Shockwave with any prosthesis they must consult with Guest Services prior to waiting in line for Shockwave.
Opened:
2001
Fast Lane:
Yes
About:
Shockwave is a brilliant thrill ride that I always have to ride multiple times before exiting Canada’s Wonderland for the day.
Shockwave features a spinning arm, similar to Riptide and Soaring Timbers, though it also has 6 arms that extend from the center of the ride, which independently spins, flipping riders both backwards and forwards.
THUNDER RUN
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WONDER MOUNTAIN’S GUARDIAN
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KIDZVILLE
SWING TIME
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TAXI JAM
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BLAST OFF!
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FLYING EAGLES
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FREQUENT FLYERS
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JUMPIN’ JET
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KIDZVILLE STATION
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MAPLEPARK TREEHOUSE
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SILVER STREAK
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SUGAR SHACK
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TREETOP ADVENTURE
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MEDIEVAL FAIRE
DRAGON FYRE
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DROP TOWER: SCREAM ZONE
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LEVIATHAN
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WILDE KNIGHTMARES
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RIPTIDE
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SPEED CITY RACEWAY
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SPINOVATOR
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VIKING’S RAGE
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WILDE BEAST
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PLANET SNOOPY
BEAGLE BRIGADE AIRFIELD
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BOO BLASTERS ON BOO HILL
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CHARACTER CARROUSEL
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GHOSTER COASTER
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JOE COOL’S DODGEM SCHOOL
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JOKEY’S JALOPIES
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LUCY’S TUGBOAT
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PEANUTS 500
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THE PUMPKIN PATCH
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SALLY’S LOVE BUGGIES
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SNOOPY’S REVOLUTION
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SNOOPY’S SPACE RACE
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SNOOPY VS. RED BARON
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SWAN LAKE
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WOODSTOCK WHIRLY BIRDS
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SPLASHWORKS
BARRACUDA BLASTER
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THE BLACK HOLE
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LAKESIDE LAGOON
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LAZY RIVER
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MOUNTAIN BAY CLIFFS
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MUSKOKA PLUNGE
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THE PLUNGE
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THE PUMP HOUSE
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TYPHOON
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RIPTIDE RACER
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SPASH ISLAND SPRAYGROUND
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SPASH ISLAND WATERWAYS
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SPLASH STATION
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SUPER SOAKER
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WHIRL WINDS
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WHITEWATER BAY
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