This roller coaster at Skyline Park in Bad Wörishofen, Germany, like all other modern coasters, can trace its lineage back to the engineering work of Russian refugees living in 17th-century Portugal. To recreate the fun of sledding down snow-covered hills, the Russians built ice-bearing wooden platforms and ramps similar to very large playground slides. As the concept of the ‘Russian Mountain’ ride caught on across Europe, mechanical parts came into play, including sled-like vehicles to ride in, and rails to keep the carts on track. Over the centuries, these coaster-like rides grew to resemble the extreme, gravity-challenging thrill rides we see at modern theme parks. Where is your favorite roller coaster?
Keep your hands inside the ride at all times…
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
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Assembling the Smithsonian
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Into the woods
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National Park Week: Yosemite National Park, California
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Raise your hand for Teacher Appreciation Day
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Humpbacks return to the Inside Passage
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The confluence of the Arve and Rhône Rivers
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International Rock Day
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What, no escalator?
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Fossil Day
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A bridge comes full circle
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Playa del Amor, Marietas Islands, Mexico
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Did they forget to fly south?
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A bison preserve
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Boxing Day in East Yorkshire, England
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Stepping stones in Tollymore Forest Park, Northern Ireland
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National Mushroom Month
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World Otter Day
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World Water Day
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Goodbye, 2020!
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The frog prince?
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The migrating monarchs of Michoacán
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Groovy!
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International Womens Day
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Travel Sunday: Sintra, Portugal
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Mount Hood, Oregon
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Talk like a pirate—or walk the plank
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What a twist
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Waimea Canyon and Waipoo Falls, Kauai, Hawaii
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Tree of many colors
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Get the bear facts