Logger's Run : Hierarchy's Darkside

Ride Name:	Logger's Run
Park:	Michigan's Adventure
Type:	Arrow Log Flume
Height:	Approx. 40 feet
Length:	N/A
Duration:	4:00
Speed:	N/A
Builder:	Arrow Dynamics, Clearfield UT
Status:	Operating Since 1978
Rating (1 to 10):	6

Review and Description:

It's an incredibly easy ride to operate, sometimes even boring. However, this aging ride fails to thrill me, even the first time I rode it (on a test ride no less). It's still good, as it's one great way to cool off on a hot day (or in my case, get wet so I stay somewhat cool during the peak heating time while I operate).

There is a main platform, with two sides. Each side has a loading and unloading platform, and the boats (logs) are stopped by skid brakes. You get on at the loading platform, and when the dispatch brakes are clear, you are let go to the dispatch section. The console operator verifies that the boat is properly loaded (maximum 4 per boat, no one under 48" unless accompanied by a responsible person), and once it is clear, you are dispatched. You ride along a rapids of sort until you reach the conveyor belt lift hill, going more than 40 feet up until you reach the crest (and see the lift host), then your first drop (roughly about 5 feet).

You then have smooth floating for about 2 minutes. There you can sit, relax, and anticipate what's ahead as you twist around the water's path. You can also get a nice overall view of the park from above.

Once you reach the chute, where you will see the chute host (probably bored or resting, but supposed to be watching the ride), say hi to him and her, and make sure you scream as you go down the chute (hold on to your hat if you have one).

Once you reach bottom, you'll skid along, and possibly get wet, and you'll slow down to about a mile or two an hour, around a curve, where you will be directed to one of two sides, and be stopped at the unloading section of the platform, where you disembark.

Side note, if you ever think about jumping off... don't do it. It is a great way of getting ejected from the park, plus it's a huge drop down if you take the wrong step. The operators/hosts that are up there know what they are doing, so don't think you can get away with it too.