Mountain Coaster coming to Lake Placid

ADG Mountainsides, a division of Aquatic Development Group, has been selected by the Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) to design and manufacture a new downhill mountain coaster as one of the feature attractions set to open at the Lake Placid Olympic Sports Complex at Mt. Van Hoevenberg, North Elba, New York, in the fall of 2020.

Since taking office, New York Governor Cuomo has invested over $240 million to improve ORDA facilities and transform them into more year-round destinations. A zipline complex and new base lodge will also be added alongside the mountain coaster.

Installation of the 7,600 foot (2,316 m) mountain coaster is already underway and is expected to open in Fall of 2020. Once completed the Mount Van Hoevenberg coaster will be the longest in the United States. The path of the track was designed by ORDA and ADG to mirror the 1980 Olympic bobsled run. A custom designed sled will also match the existing bobsled carts. And while fast (the ADG Coaster can obtain speeds of up to 25 mph or 40 kph), the ride will provide a more family friendly alternative to the Olympic Bobsled run. To capture the essence of the Olympics, the ADG Mountain Coaster carts will be fitted with speakers that highlight the experience with a music and narrative track.

“Sports and tourism are the major industries for Lake Placid and the region,” said Mayor Craig Randall. “The investments that are being proposed for our recreational facilities are fully supported by the guests and spectators who come to the area. Additionally, we are confident that this activity will spur additional private investment in lodging properties.”