A-Z Coaster of the Week: Iron Dragon

This week we head back to Cedar Point to one of the more overlooked roller coasters at the park, Iron Dragon.

Photo taken by Larry Treece

Built in 1987, this is the oldest operating Arrow Dynamics Suspended steel roller coaster in the world, a sort of dying breed if you will. This is only one of five models around the world that are still operating, with 3 being owned by Cedar Fair. Iron Dragon is currently the longest of its kind with a 2,800 foot long track and reaches speeds of up to 40 MPH when travelling around its twisted course. This coaster model is still one of the most unique ever designed as the cars are able to freely swing back and forth along curves and banking. Even though this is now overshadowed by much more taller and faster roller coasters, it’s still a popular coaster for families with its relatively low height requirement of 48 inches. I still remember when I was younger that Iron Dragon was my favorite coaster at Cedar Point when I wasn’t quite ready for the big coasters like Millennium Force and Top Thrill Dragster. I still try to at least ride it once every time I visit.

Bing Maps Image

Before Iron Dragon was built, Monster, Western Cruise, and one of the Frontier Lift stations used to occupy the area. Monster was moved to its current spot next to Gemini in 1987, Western Cruise’s station (which became Paddlewheel Excursions later) was relocated, and Frontier Lift was closed after the 1985 season. The other Frontier Lift station still stands today in between Cedar Creek Mine Ride and Skyhawk and is currently used for bathrooms in the lower half and storage in the upper half. Next time you’re at the park, when you head up the stairs into the Iron Dragon station, look carefully along the water and you should be able to still see the docking cleats where Western Cruise used to tie the boats up.

Photo taken by Larry Treece

Even as Iron Dragon approaches its 27th season at Cedar Point, it’s a timeless classic and hoping that it will be staying at Cedar Point for years to come. Share with us any memories you have of Iron Dragon.