Great Bear Hersheypark: Is It Too Intense For You?

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Post on Feb 10, 2025

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Great Bear Hersheypark: Is it Too Intense For You?

Hersheypark's Great Bear is a thrilling inverted roller coaster, renowned for its unique features and intense moments. But is it too intense for you? This guide will help you decide if this coaster is right for your thrill-seeking level.

Understanding Great Bear's Intensity

Great Bear isn't your average roller coaster. It's an inverted coaster, meaning you're seated below the track, providing a unique perspective and increased sensation of freefall. Its intensity stems from several key elements:

Key Intensity Factors:

• Inversions: Great Bear features several inversions, including a zero-g roll, a vertical loop, and a corkscrew. These maneuvers create significant g-forces, pulling you in different directions. This is a major factor in the ride's overall intensity.

• Speed and Drops: The coaster reaches impressive speeds, adding to the adrenaline rush. The drops, especially the initial plunge, can be quite stomach-churning for those sensitive to sudden drops.

• Duration and Layout: While not excessively long, Great Bear's layout is designed to keep you on the edge of your seat. The constant changes in direction and the continuous feeling of weightlessness contribute to its intense nature.

• Height Requirement: The height requirement (48 inches) is a good indicator that this isn't a children's ride. If your child barely meets the height requirement, they might find it overwhelming.

Who Might Find Great Bear Too Intense?

While many thrill-seekers love Great Bear, certain individuals might find it too much:

• Those with motion sickness: The constant twists, turns, and inversions can trigger nausea or dizziness in individuals prone to motion sickness. Consider bringing motion sickness medication or skipping the ride if you have a sensitive stomach.

• People with heart conditions or back problems: The g-forces and sudden movements can be taxing on the body. If you have any health concerns, consult your doctor before riding.

• Individuals with a fear of heights or enclosed spaces: The inverted seating and significant height of the coaster can be triggering for those with acrophobia (fear of heights) or claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces).

• Younger children (even if they meet the height requirement): Even if they meet the height requirement, younger children may find the ride too intense and frightening. Parental discretion is advised.

Who Will Love Great Bear?

On the other hand, Great Bear is perfect for:

• Experienced thrill-seekers: If you've ridden numerous roller coasters and crave a truly intense experience, Great Bear will deliver.

• Those who enjoy inverted coasters: If you're a fan of the unique sensation of inverted coasters, this ride is a must-do.

• Adventure-seeking adults: The ride's intensity and thrill factor make it ideal for adults looking for an adrenaline rush.

Tips for a Less Intense Experience (If You Dare!)

If you're on the fence, consider these tips:

• Ride it in the front or back: The front car generally provides a more intense experience due to increased g-forces, while the back can be slightly smoother.

• Ride it at the end of the day: The lines tend to be shorter later in the day, allowing for less anticipation and build-up of anxiety.

• Don't eat a heavy meal beforehand: A full stomach can worsen motion sickness.

• Talk to the ride operators: They can offer insights into the ride experience and help manage any concerns.

Conclusion: Great Bear - A Thrill Ride Worth Considering

Ultimately, whether Great Bear is "too intense" is a personal decision. Weigh the intensity factors against your own thrill tolerance and health status. This guide should help you make an informed choice before taking on this exciting but challenging coaster. Remember to always prioritize your safety and comfort.