Leap-The-Dips was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1996 due to its rare side-friction design.
The park was originally established at the end of a streetcar line to encourage weekend ridership.
It is one of the few remaining trolley parks in the United States that still retains its original purpose as a recreational destination.
The Leap-The-Dips coaster does not use up-stop wheels, relying entirely on side-friction to keep the cars on the track.
The park underwent a major transformation in 2018 to shift its focus toward a community park model with year-round activity potential.
Lakemont Park is a historic amusement park in Altoona, Pennsylvania, home to the Leap-The-Dips, the oldest operating wooden roller coaster in the world. Originally founded in 1894 as a trolley park, it has transitioned from a traditional amusement facility into a community-focused recreational space. The park features a variety of attractions including the Island Waterpark, mini-golf courses, and batting cages. It sits on a landscaped property that emphasizes outdoor leisure and picnic areas rather than high-intensity thrill rides. The park is managed by the Blair County Convention and Sports Facilities Authority, which focuses on providing family-friendly activities. Visitors can find multi-sport courts and a wide range of park amenities suitable for groups and families. The site serves as a local landmark for both its historical engineering significance and modern public recreation.
Directly in front of the historic Leap-The-Dips coaster structure.
Bring a swimsuit and towel if you plan on accessing the Island Waterpark area.
Check the park website before arrival, as certain rides and attractions operate on a seasonal schedule.
Pack a picnic lunch, as the park features dedicated green spaces designed for families to eat and relax.
Do not expect a full-scale regional theme park with dozens of high-speed roller coasters, as the facility is now a smaller, community-focused recreational space.
The park is seasonal, typically operating from late spring through early autumn, with water attractions specifically limited to the warmest months.
Proper swim attire is required for the waterpark; shirts and shoes must be worn in non-pool areas of the park.
