Tucked high above the treetops in South Lake Tahoe, the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster isn’t just a thrill ride—it’s a one-of-a-kind alpine adventure with front-row seats to some of the most jaw-dropping views in the Sierra Nevada. Imagine strapping into a sleek, solo coaster car and cruising down a track that twists and turns through towering pines, rugged ridgelines, and wide-open sky.
This is no rickety theme park ride. It’s a gravity-powered, choose-your-own-speed journey that’s as beautiful as it is exhilarating. Whether you’re here for the adrenaline or the Instagram shots, Ridge Rider delivers a ride you’ll want to take again and again—no two runs feel quite the same.
What We Love
Choose-Your-Speed Thrills
Not a fan of breakneck speeds? No problem. Want to go full throttle? You can do that, too. With handbrakes on every cart, you’re in total control of your pace, making it easy to cruise comfortably or zip through the curves like a pro.
Views Worth Slowing Down For
You’re not just riding—you’re sightseeing. From the ridgeline, the view stretches out to include Lake Tahoe’s sparkling blue water, jagged granite peaks, and the lush green forest below. Some riders go fast; others ease up just to soak it all in.
Fun for Nearly Everyone
This is the kind of ride that appeals to a wide range of folks. Teens, couples, adventurous grandparents—if you’re 54” tall and love a good scenic thrill, this coaster is for you. Tandem rides are also available for kids with adults, making it family-friendly, too.
Smooth, Spiraling Layout
The coaster track winds gracefully through the forest, offering dips, swoops, and sweeping turns that feel more like a mountain dance than a wild roller coaster. It’s fast enough to get your heart racing, but smooth enough that you’re grinning the whole way.
Open Year-Round
Whether you’re bundled up in a winter jacket or soaking in summer sun, Ridge Rider is open in all seasons (weather permitting). That means you can experience the ride with snowy trees one month and sunny wildflowers the next.
Atmosphere & Setting
The Ridge Rider experience begins at Heavenly Mountain Resort, where ski lifts and towering pines set the scene for adventure. The vibe is classic Tahoe—laid-back, outdoorsy, and buzzing with energy. There’s a natural soundtrack of whooshing wind, pine needles rustling, and the occasional excited shriek from a coaster as it zooms by.
You’ll hop on a gondola to reach the ride platform, and once you’re at the top, it feels like you’ve entered a treetop playground. Wide skies, crisp mountain air, and postcard-worthy scenery surround you—every direction looks like a screensaver.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Yes—and then some. A single ride runs around $20–25, depending on the season, with discounted rates for multiple rides or as part of a gondola package. While that may seem steep for a short experience, the scenery, control, and overall vibe make it a standout Tahoe activity.
It’s perfect for couples, families with tweens and teens, or day-trippers looking to add a little adrenaline to their vacation itinerary. Plus, the photos (and bragging rights) are worth every penny.
Other Considerations
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Parking: Paid parking is available at Heavenly Village, with gondola access nearby.
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Hours: Vary by season and weather—always check online or call before heading out.
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Accessibility: Riders must meet height and weight requirements; ride is not wheelchair accessible.
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What to Bring: Sunglasses, secure shoes, and layers—mountain weather can shift fast.
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Weather Warnings: Thunderstorms or heavy snow can close the ride temporarily, so flexible plans are a good idea.
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Food & Fun Nearby: Heavenly Village is packed with places to grab a bite, sip a latte, or shop for souvenirs.
If you’re looking to pair big mountain views with a rush of wind-in-your-face fun, Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster is a Tahoe must. It’s fast, fun, and the perfect way to add a little altitude to your next getaway.
Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster
📍 4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150