Log Flume Rides

About Log Flume Rides

Unlike many other exciting thrill rides, there was actually a historic purpose behind log flumes. They were originally constructed for the special purpose of safely transporting logs and lumber downward from the steep, rugged terrain of the mountains. The logs and lumber were transported down the mountain by a flow of water to a sawmill. These days, the term is more frequently used to describe this popular ride which uses a water flume and artificial hollow logs. Thrill seekers sit in the logs and get driven along the flume by the force of flowing water. Typically, the ride reaches its exciting climax with a speedy descent down a steep part of the flume, which usually stops after splashing down to the water. The ride uses the water to add a sense of exhilaration, and also to cool off passengers during a hot day at the amusement park. Certain seats in the flume usually receive more water than others, yet the anticipation comes from never knowing exactly where the water will splash.

Origin of the Log Flume Ride

The original log flume ride is believed to have been built in 1963 for the Six Flags Over Texas. The ride was called El Aserradero, which means the sawmill in Spanish. The ride was immediately a success, and the popularity inspired another flumes five years later. The designer of the ride was inspired by the device used by lumberjacks, and the unique idea has become a staple of modern amusement parks.

Finding Log Flumes at Amusement Parks

Log flumes are very popular, with most water parks offering these exhilarating thrill rides. The size, speed and excitement factor of the ride varies depending on the park. These rides are very distinguishable and easy to find. Parks that offer log flume rides include:

• Six Flags Water Parks
• Family Kingdom at Myrtle Beach
• Seaworld Gold Coast
• Lake George: The Great Escape Theme Park
• Buccaneer Bay
• Funtown Splashtown
• Silverwood Theme Park
• Splash Mountain
• Wild Adventures Theme Park
• Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park

Log Flume Riding Tips

• While waiting for your turn on the ride, try to watch as the ride splashes into the water in order to determine where you want to sit, depending on how much water you want to experience.
• If you are wearing contact lenses or otherwise do not wish to get any water in your eyes, remember to shut them as you make that final descent into the water.
• The majority of log flumes have height requirements of 36 inches, which makes the ride good for families.
• Cameras and cell phones can be damaged by the water and are not recommended on the ride.
• People with heart conditions should not go on the ride.
• People with respiratory or breathing problems should consult their doctor before going on the ride.
• Women who are pregnant should not go on the ride.
• Wear a bathing suit or bring a change of clothes if you are not going to be comfortable ending up wet.

Log flumes are an interesting and exhilarating ride that was inspired by their pragmatic place in lumberjack history. Log flumes are fun because they combine all the elements of a good thrill ride with the components of an amazing water ride. It’s a rollercoaster that basically ends up slashing into the water. It’s no wonder why log flumes have made their way into so many water and amusement parks all over the world.