THUNDER ROAD

Height Requirement: 48"

Carowinds legendary coaster features two trains running at speeds as high as 58 mph. Its twin 3,819-foot tracks cross the Carolina state line, taking you on a breathtaking plunge over—literally!—the edges of North and South Carolina.

Located in: County Fair

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Thunder Road

Construction Data	539,000 feet of lumber 30,000 bolts 3,500 pounds of nails 5,500 gallons of paint 60-70 tons of nails, bolts and track combined
Lift Height	93'
Manufacturer	Philadelphia Toboggan Company of Lansdale, PA
Number of Cars	6
Number of Trains	2
Ride Time	2 min., 10 sec.
Speed	58 mph
Train Capacity	24 per train
Year Opened	1976

Built by Philadelphia Toboggan Company, Thunder Road was unveiled at Carowinds in 1976. The coaster was a massive construction project, gobbling up over 500,000 board feet of specially treated lumber; 60-70 tons of nails, bolts and track; and 5,500 gallons of paint. In naming the new attraction, park owners looked to the movies for inspiration. “Thunder Road” hails from a Robert Mitchum movie depicting moonshining in the Carolina mountains. With one train the “moonshiner car,” and the other, the “revenuers,” trains were designed to face off on side-by-side tracks. To complete the experience, the local ATF office donated two moonshine stills, both confiscated from the North Carolina mountains—and strategically placed at the coaster’s entrance and exit!

The ride enjoyed a thunderous debut, with photos showcased in major newspapers across the country. In a special promotion, guests won the opportunity to join NASCAR stars Bobby Allison and David Pearson as Thunder Road’s first riders. The coaster has stood the test of time. Thirty years later, it’s still one of Carowinds’ most popular attractions. Grit your teeth, bare the load, and enjoy your ride on Thunder Road!

Guests must be at least 48 inches tall to ride this attraction

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