Photography by Jack Affleck

If you’re a fan of roller coasters, you’re likely familiar with the ride’s characteristically sharp twists and turns and belly-churning drops.

Located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, deep in the Rocky Mountains, the Alpine Coaster takes the traditional coaster experience to the next level by allowing riders to control the speed of their cars. Gravity does the bulk of the work as passengers race down the track, but a pair of hand brakes affixed to either side of the car allow riders to slow their speed.

The Alpine Coaster has been a popular ride at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park since 2005. It was originally created as a creative and excitement-filled way for visitors to pass time while waiting for the park’s cave tours. The coaster’s cars are fixed to a track that spans 3,400 feet of hilly terrain that, during spring and summer, is dotted with colorful wildflowers—making for an exhilarating multisensory experience.

For more info, visit glenwoodcaverns.com