America's 'highest looping roller coaster' is set to open in early July in Colorado, located on top of a Glenwood Springs area mountain at 7,132 feet above sea level.
On July 9, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park will open a rollercoaster dubbed 'Defiance' to the public. The second rollercoaster to be built at the mountain attraction, the ride is located on Iron Mountain, capable of reaching speeds up to 56 miles per hour. On top of featuring a loop, the track also sends riders on a 102.3-degree freefall drop, a 41-foot zero-g 'heartline roll,' and a 98-foot 'twisted top hat switch' throughout 56 seconds of ride time.
The name 'Defiance' comes from the original name of the Glenwood Springs settlement. The term was a reference to prospectors who opted to build a fort in the area despite the action going against a lawful 1868 treaty that had been made with local Native Americans, reserving their right to the land. According to the Visit Glenwood website, "the Ute Indians rebelled against unfair treatment and were removed from their treaty lands in 1879, opening a vast area for settlement." This was one factor that allowed for the development of the Glenwood Springs area, originally known as Defiance and then Defiance Glenwood Springs.
Tickets to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park can be purchased for $67, which includes unlimited access to cave tours, rides, and more. Find out more here.
