During my years working at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio, I had the privilege of being part of numerous memorable experiences. One particularly exciting moment was on January 23, 2014, when, amidst bone-chilling temperatures of 4°, I witnessed the installation of Banshee’s 100th and final piece of roller coaster track. The meticulous construction process and the culmination of months of effort made it a truly unforgettable day.

Banshee, with its impressive 4,124 feet of track, unleashed its exhilarating twists and turns on April 18, 2014, establishing itself as the world’s longest inverted roller coaster. The layout and design of Banshee resulted in a thrilling experience for riders.

Constructed by the Adena Corporation in a remarkable span of 160 days, Banshee replaced the once-problematic Son of Beast wooden roller coaster in the Action Zone area of the 364-acre amusement and water park. Taking riders on a 160-second journey, it features seven stomach-churning inversions at speeds reaching up to 68 mph, offering a thrilling and smooth ride experience.

Designed by Bolliger and Mabillard (B&M) of Switzerland, Banshee, a $24 million investment, boasts a unique design with standout elements such as massive loops. A distinctive feature is the sequence where top speed is reached halfway through the ride. Notably, the elevation from the highest point to the lowest point is a thrilling 208 feet, adding to the coaster’s excitement and allure.

Upon its debut, Banshee seamlessly integrated into Kings Island’s collection of world-class roller coasters. Accommodating around 1,650 riders per hour with three trains, each featuring eight cars, this attraction effortlessly joined the ranks of other top-ranked rides at Kings Island, such as The Beast and Diamondback. It further enhanced the park’s diverse and exhilarating lineup, offering guests a thrilling and memorable experience.

As I reflect on Banshee’s legacy, I can’t help but wonder if you’ve experienced the adrenaline-pumping journey of this incredible roller coaster. The thrill and excitement the ride offers are truly amazing. If so, I’d love to hear about your own ride experience on Banshee.

Take a virtual ride on Banshee: POV