Goliath at Six Flags Over Georgia is a steel hypercoaster that offers a fast, smooth ride focused on airtime and speed. Standing about 200 feet tall and reaching speeds near 70 miles per hour, it delivers a thrilling experience without inversions. This article explains what kind of coaster Goliath is, what the ride feels like, safety rules, its history, and tips to make the most of your visit.
What kind of roller coaster is Goliath and what makes it unique?
Goliath is a steel hypercoaster built by Giovanola, known for creating smooth, high-speed coasters. It uses a traditional out-and-back layout: starting with a tall lift hill, followed by a sequence of large hills and banked turns that bring the train back to the station. With a height around 200 feet and top speeds approaching 70 miles per hour, it fits the hypercoaster category, which emphasizes airtime and speed rather than inversions. Goliath’s unique aspect at Six Flags Over Georgia is its focus on delivering sustained speed and multiple airtime hills, providing a different experience from the park’s other rides that often focus on loops or compact designs.
What does the ride experience feel like on Goliath?
The ride begins with a slow climb up the lift hill, giving you a wide view of the park and building anticipation. At the peak, the coaster drops sharply, quickly reaching its top speed near 70 mph. The layout features several large hills that create strong airtime—those moments when you feel weightless as you lift from your seat. Between hills, banked turns apply lateral forces, adding variety to the ride. The coaster is praised for its smooth transitions and balanced pacing, mixing intense drops with brief recovery moments. The entire ride lasts about two minutes and delivers a thrilling combination of speed and airtime without any inversions.
Are there safety rules or rider restrictions I should know about?
Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride Goliath, ensuring the restraints fit securely. The ride uses over-the-shoulder restraints along with seat belts to keep riders safely in place, and staff check these before dispatching each train. Guests with heart conditions, back or neck problems, or who are pregnant should avoid this ride because of the intense forces involved. Loose articles like phones, hats, and bags are not allowed on the ride for safety reasons; lockers or designated storage areas are available to secure belongings. Following these rules helps keep the experience safe for everyone.
What is the history or significance of Goliath at Six Flags Over Georgia?
Goliath opened in 2006 as a major addition to Six Flags Over Georgia, designed to offer a high-thrill coaster that could compete with other top rides in the Southeast. At its debut, it ranked among the tallest and fastest coasters in the region. Though it no longer holds any world records, its combination of height, speed, and smooth ride quality makes it a key attraction in the park. Goliath helped establish Six Flags Over Georgia as a destination for enthusiasts who enjoy large-scale steel coasters focused on airtime rather than inversions. It remains popular because it balances excitement with a ride experience accessible to many riders looking for thrills without extreme elements.
How can I make the most of my visit to Goliath?
To avoid long lines, ride Goliath early when the park opens or later in the afternoon when crowds usually thin. If available, use the park’s virtual queue system or fast pass options to save waiting time. Secure all loose items in lockers or with non-riders since the coaster prohibits carrying loose belongings. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for standing or walking in line. If you want to ride multiple times, consider visiting near park closing when lines tend to be shorter. Knowing the ride’s intensity and height can help you decide if Goliath is right for you before waiting in line.
Conclusion
Goliath is a must-ride for thrill-seekers visiting Six Flags Over Georgia. It offers a fast, smooth ride packed with airtime hills and speed without inversions. Understanding its type, ride experience, safety rules, and history helps you set expectations and plan your visit. With these details, you can enjoy Goliath safely and efficiently, focusing on the excitement the coaster delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Goliath suitable for first-time roller coaster riders?
Goliath is a high-thrill coaster with fast speeds and large drops, which can be intense for first-timers. Riders should consider their comfort with height and speed before deciding to ride.
Can I take photos or videos on Goliath?
No. For safety, loose items like phones and cameras are not allowed on the ride, so you can’t take photos or videos while riding.
What is the minimum height requirement to ride Goliath?
The minimum height requirement is generally 48 inches to ensure restraints fit and keep riders secure.