Roller Coaster Origin: How This Popular Ride In Amusement Parks Was Created

However, the Switchback eventually lost its usefulness when mines expanded throughout the neighboring mountains. In 1890, the railway was converted into a tourist attraction. It was called Scenic Railway. Paying passengers enjoyed the panoramic view of the Poconos, followed by an open quarry, an “Amazing Burning Mine,” and then, the Home Stretch, and it was a time the ride had attained speeds of 65 miles per hour.