Waldameer & Water World has announced its next major attraction, Eagle’s Pursuit, a brand-new family launch roller coaster set to debut for the 2027 summer season.
The historic theme park, situated on the scenic northern coast of Pennsylvania, is known for utilizing its unique geography to build standout attractions.
Eagle’s Pursuit looks to continue this tradition by interacting directly with the wooded hillside overlooking Lake Erie.
Flying Over the Hillside
The ride experience is inspired by the flight patterns of a bird of prey. According to the park, the Vekoma roller coaster will feature two distinct launches to keep momentum high across its layout.
Trains will initial launch straight out of the station, diving directly into the valley below. A second mid-ride launch will then propel riders back up the hillside for a fast-paced finale.
Waldameer has revealed that the layout will include:
- Two dynamic launches to vary the train's speed.
- 16 unique track elements spread across the course.
- 18 rapid direction changes and sweeping turns.
- 10 distinct 'floater' airtime moments designed to create a weightless sensation.
The ride layout relies heavily on close-to-the-ground maneuvers and sudden drops, using the natural elevation changes of the park's terrain to elevate the sensation of speed.
An Accessible Thrill
While the coaster promises plenty of action for seasoned enthusiasts, accessibility is a major focus for this addition. Eagle’s Pursuit will feature a minimum rider height requirement of just 38 inches (approximately 96 cm). This low restriction places it firmly in the family-thrill category, opening up the experience to younger children and families to enjoy together.
Steve Gorman, CEO of Waldameer & Water World, said:
"Eagle’s Pursuit captures everything guests love about Waldameer: family thrills, beautiful natural scenery, and unforgettable experiences. From the moment riders launch out of the station and soar over the hillside, this coaster delivers the feeling of flying like a powerful eagle in pursuit."
Waldameer remains one of the few traditional, family-owned parks in the United States that operates on a free-admission and free-parking model, where visitors can choose to pay per ride or purchase a wristband.
Construction Timeline
Work on the site is already underway in Erie, with groundwork starting alongside the 2026 operating season. The park plans to reveal specific ride statistics, such as precise speeds, track length, and the manufacturer, closer to the opening date.
Eagle's Pursuit will join an established ride lineup at Waldameer that includes the acclaimed Ravine Flyer II, a Gravity Group wooden coaster that similarly utilizes the park's steep ravine and hillside geography to cross over a local roadway.
