Switchback Railway
Switchback Railway Sampler
Switchback Railways were the very first official mechanical roller coasters to exist with the earliest versions being constructed in 1873 in Savin Rock, Connecticut and in 1874 at Coney Island, New York. Though much smaller and never mass produced, the first Rutschebanen at Tivoli Gardens was also a Switchback Railway and opened in 1843.
La Marcus Thompson improved on his simple Switchback design and in 1887 introduced the first Scenic Railways that had more theming and displays to improve the ride experience as well as a wire lift hill design that is similar to coasters of today. Fake mountains and tunnels were added around the shallow drops to make the ride more thrilling and unpredictable with many turns and drops hidden from view.
Switchback Railway Coney Island, New York.
Switchback Railway Beach at East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa.
Switchback Railway Manchester Royal Jubilee Exhibition, England.
Switchback Railway Victoria Pier, Folkestone, England.
Switchback Railway Newcastle, England.
Switchback Railway XXXX, Palisades Park, New Jersey.
Switchback Railway XXXX, Palisades Park, New Jersey.
Switchback Railway XXXX, Palisades Park, New Jersey.
Switchback Railway XXXX, Palisades Park, New Jersey.
Switchback Railway XXXX, Palisades Park, New Jersey.
Switchback Railway XXXX, Palisades Park, New Jersey.
Switchback Railway XXXX, Palisades Park, New Jersey.
Switchback Railway XXXX, Palisades Park, New Jersey.
