Thunder River has been operating at Six Flags St. Louis since 1983. It is their water rapids ride. Up to 12 people sit in the circular boats, and they go down the river getting wet and making memories. While Thunder River is smaller than most similar rides, and to often certain effects don’t work. I still always have a great time on Thunder River.
Thunder River at Six Flags overview
Roller coasters are what get most of us to Theme Parks. Still, there is something I love about flat rides, it is how you can have bigger groups ride together. Thunder River and Joker Inc. are the best rides for this type of experience. It is a very good family ride since you only have to be 42 inches to ride it by yourself, but if you have someone younger who is 36 inches and above, then they can also ride with you.
Since the boat is circular, you and your group can all talk and look at each other as the boat descends into the rapids. When I am with smaller groups, the polite conversation made with the other people in the boat has always been pleasant. Because the shared experience of the ride helps take away any awkwardness to the situation. It’s one of the more communal experiences that you can have at Six Flags, St. Louis.
Thunder River at Six Flags
There is always a magical spot. Two people in that boat are going to get very, very wet. Some will come out with barely a drop. Something about the roulette nature of Thunder River gives it a fun unpredictable nature.
Water rides not at the water park are important
Water parks have become more and more popular. Six Flags St. Louis has its own water park attached. You don’t even have to pay a separate entry fee. As that has become more and more prevalent, I have noticed that new non-water parks, water rides have started to decline in installations and riders. Since those looking to cool down just go there. Rides like Tidal Wave which was their Shoot-the-Chutes ride closed forever because people stopped riding it. Maybe because people hate walking around in wet socks and shoes. Because there is just something timeless about Thunder River. It always has a good size line. For that reason, I don’t see Thunder River being removed anytime soon. It does give you a place to prop your feet up, diminishing the chances that your shoes will get wet.
Thunder River issues
My biggest complaint is the number of effects that are often not working. For Example the water cannons, to the waterfall finale. This does keep the ride from hitting the real potential it has.
Final Verdict
I always have a great time on Thunder River. It’s a great communal experience. There is always screaming and laughing on Thunder River. Get your group and go cool off. On a scale of one to ten, I would give Thunder River a seven.
Pros: Great for big groups, great on hot days
Cons: Effects that consistently don’t work.
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