Making memories that last
DEVIN HEILMAN/Press Timber Terror riders prepare to plummet down the wooden roller coaster’s first big dip Saturday during Silverwood Theme Park’s opening day of the 2017 season. The park will be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends through May and will be open daily starting Memorial Day weekend.
DEVIN HEILMAN/Press SpinCycle riders kick out their legs Saturday while suspended in the air during Silverwood's first day of the 2017 season. More than 3,000 guests visited the park in spite of rain and chilly temperatures in the 40s.
By DEVIN HEILMAN
Staff Writer
ATHOL — Even on the coldest and rainiest of days, the spirit of summer is alive and well at Silverwood Theme Park.
"It's an amazing summer attraction for our area," said Kristine Kannegaard, a University of Idaho graduate who grew up around Coeur d'Alene. "I remember coming up here as a kid and it's even better now. There's lots more to do."
"And all the fun roller coasters," Kannegaard's 8-year-old son, Zack, said with a grin. "They're fast and you get to go high on them."
Despite temperatures in the 40s and rain early in the day, more than 3,000 people — families, couples, youth groups and guests from across the region — couldn't wait to get into the park Saturday for the opening day of Silverwood's 30th season.
“We’re season pass holders, so we love to get out here as much as we can," Kannegaard said. "We just love that there’s a lot of activities for kids of all ages."
The treasured traditions of Silverwood have returned: the Roaring Creek Log Flume, Timber Terror, Panic Plunge, Paratrooper, the historic Engine No. 7 steam train and all of the more than 70 beloved attractions that sprawl across its 221 acres.
"Make memories that last a lifetime" is the park's 2017 tagline, and with now three generations that have enjoyed Silverwood, it's easy to understand why.
"We’re always happy to build those memories for families," said Mark Robitaille, director of Silverwood's marketing and communications. "We are seeing this multi-generational trend going. As we get older and more mature, we see grandparents bringing their grandkids, and they brought their kids. That’s about where we’re at, the third generation right now."
This year, guests can expect a few fresh tricks up magician Nick Norton's sleeve in the Theatre of Illusions as well as some new excitement during Marshal Jack's stunt show aboard Engine No. 7.
On Main Street, park visitors can find souvenirs, cool their heels in the High Moon Saloon or even catch an old movie in the Main Street Theatre.
“Today, we are showing 'The Three Stooges' and it goes continuously throughout the entire day," said 17-year-old Brandon Montagne Jr. of Post Falls, who worked at Silverwood last year. "I love my job here at the Main Street Theatre. The cast members that I work with and everyone that I serve as a guest is absolutely awesome. Everybody is so nice.
"This is America's greatest theme park."
Silverwood will be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends through May until Memorial Day weekend, when the park will be open daily and summer hours begin.
As part of the opening weekend celebration, tickets are $19.88 per person today when purchased online or at the front gate.
Boulder Beach will open for the season June 10.
For prices, hours and other information, visit www.silverwoodthemepark.com.