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The Grizzly: A Classic Wooden Coaster

Experience the thrills of a classic wooden roller coaster at California's Great America. A family-friendly ride since 1986!

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The Grizzly is a classic wooden roller coaster located at California's Great America in Santa Clara. Designed by Curtis D. Summers and opened in 1986, this 'out and back' coaster offers a thrilling, family-friendly experience with high-speed banked turns and airtime humps.

A brief summary to The Grizzly

  • Monday 11 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-9 pm
  • Friday 11 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Check the park map for The Grizzly's location within the Action Zone to plan your route efficiently.
  • Consider riding The Grizzly during the day for picturesque views of other attractions, or at night for a different, more intense experience.
  • Take advantage of the Fast Lane pass to shorten your wait time, especially during peak season.
  • Be aware that the ride may not accommodate guests of larger size due to the nature of the restraint system.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From various points in the Bay Area, take VTA (Valley Transportation Authority) Light Rail or Bus to the Great America Station. Several bus routes and light rail lines connect to this station. From the station, it's a short walk to the California's Great America entrance. A single VTA bus or light rail fare costs approximately $2.50.

  • Driving

    If driving, take US 101 and exit at Great America Parkway. Follow the signs to California's Great America. Parking at the theme park costs $22 if purchased online in advance, or $25 at the gate. During special events, parking prices may increase.

  • Ride-Sharing

    Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get to California's Great America. The drop-off/pick-up area is located just past the entrance to the parking lot at 4911 Great America Parkway. Expect to pay between $20-$40 for a one-way trip from nearby cities like San Jose or Sunnyvale, depending on traffic and demand.

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Discover more about The Grizzly

The Grizzly stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic wooden roller coasters. Since its debut in 1986, it has provided thrills and excitement for generations of park visitors. Designed by Curtis D. Summers, the ride is inspired by the Wildcat coaster that once operated at Coney Island. Located in the Action Zone of California's Great America, The Grizzly features a traditional 'out and back' layout. The ride takes passengers on a 3,250-foot journey with an initial drop of 88 feet and reaches speeds of up to 55 mph. While not the tallest or fastest coaster in the park, The Grizzly offers a unique and exciting experience with its high-speed banked turns and airtime humps. In recent years, The Grizzly has undergone significant retracking, resulting in a smoother and faster ride. The coaster consists of two trains, each with seven cars that can accommodate up to 28 riders. The Grizzly is a perfect transition for younger guests seeking more thrilling adventures.

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