The World's Most Terrifying Roller Coasters

Outlandish loops, tummy-turning drops and wicked-fast speeds; these are just a few of the thrilling features that characterize some of the world's most terrifying roller coasters.
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Outlandish loops, tummy-turning drops and wicked-fast speeds; these are just a few of the thrilling features that characterize some of the world's most terrifying roller coasters.

Sure, there's the excitement of adventurous endeavors like white water rafting, backcountry hiking and downhill skiing, but these monstrous, man-made coasters offer a certain type of thrill that Mother Nature just doesn't possess.

Thunderbird, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari—Santa Claus, Ind.

The World's Most Terrifying Roller Coasters

Plus, roller coasters are each unique in their own heart-pounding, turn-you-upside-down way.

For example, rides characterized as "giga" coasters reach a range of 300 to 399-feet tall, and "dive" coasters are known for their free-fall-like, 90-degree drops. Aside from say, BASE jumping off one of the world's tallest buildings, there's almost nothing else in the world like riding one of these truly chilling scream machines.

Are you ready for a wild ride? These extreme theme park attractions are some of the fastest, tallest, steepest and, yes, most terrifying roller coasters in the world.

- Katie Rosenbrock, The Active Times

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