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Thunderhawk is simply an above-average wooden coaster. What really caught me by surprise about this coaster was the amount of airtime it gives on the first drop. It looks so small and puny from the side, but when you are on board, that drop is very nerve-racking. It felt much steeper and more intense than I perceived it to be, so watch out! After being blown away by the first drop, the next part of the ride just puzzles me. There is a really small hill with one of the gentlest slopes around. It could have been a really great location for a spurt of airtime, but it was only decent at best and should have been utilized in a better fashion. Then the twister section of the ride begins. It’s a large turnaround with some dips along the way. This gets pretty wild and sends you flying into the side of the train. After this big circle, you go back towards the station. What could have been two more hills with some fun airtime were decimated once again. This time it wasn’t by the lack of height or steepness, but because of trim brakes. They murder two hills before the final brake run and arrival back in the station. Why even have those hills if you’re going to put the trims? Even though I feel the three potential airtime-hills could have been laid out better, you should definitely catch this ride if you love wooden coasters or just want to enjoy a thrilling ride. I also saw some families having a great time on it. For some nice views of Thunderhawk in action or just to stay in the shade by a classic, you can even walk right under the big turnaround and rest on a bench. Once you’re ready though, give this Schmeck classic a try.
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