Opened: 1966

Location: North Midway

Manufactured By: Hrubetz

Max Height: 25 feet

Height Requirement: Children under 46" must ride with adult.

history & info

The Paratrooper works like a slanted Ferris Wheel. It's different than a regular Ferris Wheel, however, because it spins faster and the gondolas swing outward as the wheel spins. Because only two gondolas are close the the ground at any time, loading and unloading is slow and makes for a long ride and a long wait in line. You should also be aware that no open-toed shoes or sandals can be worn on this ride.

I'm not sure where this ride was located when it opened in 1966, but at least in the 1980s it was just south of the Wild Mouse. It was moved to its current spot in 1988 or 1989.

Lagoon's Satellite was the only other Hrubetz ride known to operate at the park.

photos

Photo: Rick

Photo: Braden Miskin

The Paratrooper after dark.

Photo: Braden Miskin

Photo: John Sturm

Here is the Paratrooper in 1990 shortly after it had been moved to its current location. You can also see the old Ferris Wheel in the background on the right.

Photo: John Sturm

SOURCES

Lagoon

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Updated 16 Jan 2007