New family roller coaster highlights ‘Camp Timber Trail’ debuting next spring at Great America

Camp Timber Trail, highlighted by what’s being billed as the Midwest’s tallest, largest and fastest suspended family roller coaster, is set to debut next spring at Six Flags Great America.

The reimagining of a portion of the Gurnee theme park’s Yukon Territory is part of a multiyear transformation that builds on the amusement park’s legacy, park officials said Thursday.

In addition to the planned Sky Hawk coaster, new attractions within Camp Timber Trail will include outdoor play areas and reimagined rides: the avian-themed Chirp Chaser (formerly Sprocket Rockets); the Wilderness Wagon (formerly Crazy Bus); the aquatic-themed Creek Cruiser (formerly Yahoo River); and Bee Boppin’ (formerly Buzzy Beez).

Camp Timber Trail will “reinforce our continued investment in family experiences,” said park President John Krajnak, while also “preserving the playful spirit that has defined this area for decades.”

Krajnak declined to reveal the cost of the project, but called it a “substantial investment” for the long term.

He anticipates “an immediate uptick in attendance” upon the opening of the new attraction, described as the park’s biggest project in more than 15 years.

Established in 1976, the 300-acre theme park features 17 roller coasters, three children's areas, assorted shows and the 20-acre Hurricane Harbor water park, which has 25 attractions, including the world’s tallest water coaster.

“What we do here is offer an experience for every type of visitor,” said Rachel Kendziora, the park’s public relations manager.

To that end, colossal rides like Maxx Force and Wrath of Rakshasa cater to visitors seeking major thrills, while smaller, more family-friendly attractions like the proposed Sky Hawk, the classic Little Dipper and the Logger’s Run are for those who prefer tamer rides.

For more information, visit sixflags.com/greatamerica.

bvitello@dailyherald.com