Iron Rattler
Crackaxle Canyon | |
48" Height Requirement | |
Lapbar/Seatbelt Restraints | |
High Thrill |
Flash Pass Attraction | |
Ride Lockers | |
On-Ride Photos | |
Opened | May 25, 2013 |
Ride Type | Hybrid Coaster |
Ride Height | 179 Feet |
Drop Height | 171 Feet |
Track Length | 3,266 Feet |
Top Speed | 70 MPH |
Inversions | 1 |
Trains | 3 |
Cars Per Train | 6 |
Riders Per Car | 4 |
Ride Manufacturer | Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC) |
Train Manufacturer | Gerstlauer |
Track Color | Red |
Support Color | Non-Painted |
The Original Rattler
When Fiesta Texas opened in 1992, it was managed by Gaylord Entertainment and did not focus around the big thrill rides seen at many Six Flags parks today. One of the park's two original roller coasters from the 1992 season happened to be The Rattler. Though the park was heavily focused on live entertainment, The Rattler was no force to be reckoned with. For the first two seasons, it was the tallest and fastest wooden roller coaster in the world. John Pierce, the designer, stated that design plans for The Rattler changed frequently as Gaylord Entertainment insisted on having a record-breaking attraction.
Iron Rattler towers over the park’s Crackaxle Canyon section.
A look at Iron Rattler from Dr. Diabolical’s Cliffhanger.
Iron Rattler incorporates the surrounding quarry wall into its design elements.
Iron Rattler features several high-banked turns.
Iron Rattler’s themed entrance portal.
Iron Rattler stands 179 feet tall over the quarry wall.
The original Rattler coaster.
The Hybrid Transformation
Rattler was one of multiple wooden roller coasters in the Six Flags chain to undergo the hybrid transformation. In 2012, Six Flags announced that Rocky Mountain Construction would be heading the project and that Rattler would be the second wooden coaster in the chain to undergo the project. Iron Rattler would be following the footsteps of New Texas Giant at Six Flags Over Texas.
Iron Rattler's first drop was extended to 171 feet. The angle of the first drop was transformed into a steep 81 degrees with a top speed of 70 miles per hour. Perhaps one of the most unique additions to the ride is the barrel roll that drifts over the quarry wall. The hybrid rebuild was a huge success and much-needed for a ride that became progressively rough over the years.
Iron Rattler dives up and down the park’s quarry wall multiple times.
Riders dive off the quarry wall moments before they travel through a dark tunnel.
Iron Rattler’s first drop is an intimidating 81 degrees.
Iron Rattler dominates a segment of the park’s skyline.
Iron Rattler’s queue features Western themes.
A look at Iron Rattler standing atop the park’s quarry wall.
Ride History
2023
Iron Rattler receives a third train from Gerstlauer.
2012
The original Rattler is closed to the public and undergoes a major refurbishment, becoming a hybrid roller coaster.