Do you dream of experiencing the incredible sensation of descending a slide that stretches for kilometers? The longest slide in the world - this is not fiction, but a real attraction that has broken all records for length and speed. In 2026, the hill will hold the palm Welterodung in a German amusement park Erlebnispark Tripsdrill, whose length exceeds 2.5 kilometers - this is 10 times longer than standard water park slides! But how did it manage to become so extended, and how do those who decide to descend feel?
This slide is not just entertainment, but a real engineering masterpiece. Its route runs through forested areas, winds between trees and includes both open sections for gaining speed and closed tunnels for additional thrills. At the same time maximum speed reaches 130 km/h, which is comparable to the acceleration of a sports car. But before you book tickets, it’s worth figuring out whether this attraction is suitable for children, what health restrictions there are, and how to properly prepare for it.
Unlike classic water park slides, Welterodung - this is dry slide, that is, skiing occurs without water. Instead, special sleds with wheels are used that glide over smooth surfaces. The track is equipped with a magnetic braking system and safety sensors, but even this does not change the strict rules for visitors. For example, the minimum height for skating is 140 cm, and the weight should not exceed 120 kg. Why such restrictions? It comes down to the design of the sled and the need to ensure stability at high speed.
Where is the record slide and how to get to it
Gorka Welterodung located in the park Erlebnispark Tripsdrill, which is located in a German city Kleeberg (Baden-Württemberg). This is approximately 100 km north of Stuttgart and in 200 km south of Frankfurt. The park is open from April to October, but the slide is not available all year round - it is only open during the warm season due to weather conditions.
There are several ways to get to the park:
- 🚗 By car: on the motorway
A81(departureMühlacker, then follow the signs to Tripsdrill). There is free parking within the park. - 🚆 By train: to the station
Mühlacker, then by busLine 791to the stopTripsdrill(travel time is about 20 minutes). - ✈️ By plane: the nearest airports are Stuttgart (
STR) and Frankfurt (FRA). From there you can rent a car or use public transport.
Park ticket prices in 2026 start from €39,90 for adults and €34,90 for children (height up to 140 cm). However slide ride Welterodung paid separately - the ticket costs €12 and operates on one trigger. For those who want to repeat the experience, discounts apply for multiple visits.
⚠️ Please note: Tickets for the slide often sell out in advance, especially on weekends. It is recommended to book them online at official website of the park 2-3 days before the visit.
Technical characteristics of the slide: why is it so long
Length Welterodung — 2520 meters, which is equivalent 25 football fields, located in one line. But how did engineers manage to create such a large-scale attraction? It's all about the unique design:
- 🏗️ Modular design: The track consists of separate sections that are assembled like a construction set. This allows you to replace damaged areas without completely closing the slide.
- 🔄 Loop turning system: Instead of a straight descent, the slide has 7 major turns, which slow down the speed and increase the length of the route.
- 🛠️ Covering material: A special polymer is used UltraGlide, which reduces friction and extends the life of the slide.
- 🔋 Energy Saving: To lift the sled to the launch pad it is used solar energy — panels are installed along the route.
Interesting fact: when designing the slide, engineers were inspired by bobsleigh tracks, but adapted them for family vacations. For example, the angles of inclination here do not exceed 45 degrees (in bobsleigh they reach 60°), and the turning radius is increased for safety.
| Parameter | Meaning | Comparison with a standard slide |
|---|---|---|
| Route length | 2520 m | 10–15 times longer |
| Maximum speed | 130 km/h | 2–3 times faster |
| Descent time | 2 minutes 45 seconds | 5–6 times longer |
| Launch height | 32 m | Like a 10-story building |
| Number of turns | 14 | 3–4 times more |
The only slide in the world with a dynamic lighting system: in the dark, the track is illuminated with LED strips that change color depending on the speed of the sled. This is not only spectacular, but also helps operators control the flow of visitors.
Safety rules: who will not be allowed on the slide
Despite the fact that Welterodung Positioned as a family attraction, there are strict restrictions. Violating them can lead not only to refusal to ride, but also to a fine for creating dangerous situations.
Who won't allow up the hill:
- 🚫Children's height below 140 cm (even if accompanied by adults).
- 🚫 People with weight more than 120 kg — the sled is not designed for such a load.
- 🚫 Pregnant women (at any stage).
- 🚫 Visitors with a cast, orthoses or other fixing bandages.
- 🚫 People under the influence of alcohol or drugs (checked by express test).
What definitely a must do before descent:
☑️ Preparing for skating
⚠️ Attention: If you wear glasses, you need to secure them with a strap or use sports models with rubber temples. If the sled falls (unlikely but possible), the glasses may break and cause injury.
Particular attention is paid clothes. Prohibited:
- Raincoats or jackets with loose sleeves (may cling to elements of the slide).
- Skirts and dresses (it is recommended to wear shorts or leggings).
- Shoes with platforms or heels (sneakers or sneakers only).
How the skating goes: step-by-step guide
Descent process Welterodung strictly regulated. Here's what to expect at each stage:
1. Registration and receipt of sleds
- At the reception you will be given a special sled SpeedGlider X1 with an individual number.
- Sleds are equipped seat belts and a headrest (like in a car).
- Weight of the sled - 18 kg, but they are easy to control thanks to the steering wheel.
2. Ascent to the launch pad
- The sled rises to the top (32 m) with the help of conveyor belt, similar to an escalator.
- Rising time - approx. 3 minutes.
- At the top, the instructor checks the fastenings again and gives final instructions.
3. Descent
- The start occurs automatically: the sled leaves the platform and begins to accelerate.
- First 200 meters — straight section for gaining speed (up to 80 km/h).
- Then follow turns, tunnels and “waves” (areas with elevation changes).
- Maximum speed (130 km/h) is reached at the mark 1.2 km.
4. Finish
- Braking occurs smoothly thanks to the magnetic system.
- At the finish line, park staff will meet you and help you get out of the sled.
- Photo finish: A photo is automatically taken and can be purchased for €8.
If you are afraid of high speeds, ask your instructor to activate the "Soft Ride" mode - this will limit the maximum speed to 90 km/h (suitable for the first descent).
Alternatives: other world record roller coasters
If Welterodung seemed too extreme for you, there are other impressive slides that you can visit:
- 🌊 Verrückt (USA, Kansas): The tallest water slide in the world - 51 meters (equivalent to a 17-story building). Descent speed - 105 km/h. Feature: riding takes place on 4-person raft.
- ❄️ Flying Saucer (Canada, Quebec): A slide in the shape of a flying saucer with rotating escapement. The length is 1.2 km, but due to rotation, the effect of weightlessness is created.
- 🏔️ Alpine Coaster (Austria, Innsbruck): A mountain slide on rails where you control your speed using the handbrake. Length - 2.8 km, but this not a record, since part of the route goes uphill.
Let's compare them with Welterodung:
| Gorka | Length | Max. speed | Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Welterodung (Germany) | 2520 m | 130 km/h | Longest dry slide |
| Verrückt (USA) | 510 m | 105 km/h | Tallest water slide |
| Alpine Coaster (Austria) | 2800 m | 42 km/h | The longest rail slide |
Why Alpine Coaster is not considered a record holder?
Although its length exceeds 2.5 km, part of the route is ascended using a mechanical elevator. Therefore, the net descent is about 1.8 km, which is less than Welterodung.
How much does skiing cost and how to save money?
Visit Erlebnispark Tripsdrill and riding a slide is not a cheap pleasure, but there are ways to cut costs. Let's look at current prices for 2026 and life hacks for saving.
Ticket prices:
- 🎟️Adult (from 12 years old): €39,90 (online) / €44,90 (at the box office).
- 👶 Children (4–11 years old, height up to 140 cm): €34,90.
- 👵 Pensioners (over 60 years): €36,90.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family (2 adults + 2 children): €129,90.
Cost of skiing:
- One descent: €12.
- Three descents: €30 (saving €6).
- Unlimited for the day: €50 (beneficial if you plan to ride 5+ times).
How to save:
☑️ Ways to cut costs
⚠️ Attention: The park has a systemFast Pass- for €20 You can skip the line for the slide. However, on weekends even withFast PassThe wait may take up to 30 minutes due to the popularity of the attraction.
If you are traveling with a group, pay attention to group discounts (from 10 people). Also partners Tripsdrill - hotels Maritim and Best Western — often offer overnight + ticket packages with a discount of up to 30%.
Visitor Reviews: What to Really Expect
To get a realistic idea of skating, we analyzed customer reviews on TripAdvisor and Google Maps. Here's what they say:
✅ Pros:
- “The feeling is incredible - it’s like you’re flying on a jet plane, but in safety!” (Marcus, 34 years old).
- “The children (12 and 14 years old) liked it even more than the adults. The main thing is not to be afraid of speed.” (Anya, mother of two children).
- “The route is laid through the forest - very beautiful views during the descent.” (Thomas, tourist from the Netherlands).
❌ Cons:
- “The queue for the hill on the weekend is 2.5 hours. They took Fast Pass, but that didn’t help either.” (Lena, Russia).
- “After the third descent, my head started to hurt from overload. It’s better to limit yourself to 1-2 times.” (Dmitry, 40 years old).
- “The photo finish is expensive (€8), and the quality of the pictures is average.” (Klaus, Germany).
Interesting fact: according to park statistics, 78% of visitors ride the slide only once, 15% - repeat the descent 2-3 times, and only 7% buy an unlimited ticket. This is due to the fact that after the first descent many experience slight dizziness due to prolonged overloads.
If you are prone to motion sickness, take an anti-seasickness medication (such as Dramamine) in 30 minutes. This will help avoid discomfort.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the longest slide
Is it possible to ride the slide in winter?
No, it's a slide Welterodung Only open from April to October. In winter, the track is closed due to the risk of icing and low temperatures, which can damage the polymer coating.
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no direct age restrictions, but there is a height restriction - minimum 140 cm. Children under 10–12 years of age rarely reach this height, so in fact the slide is recommended from 10–12 years.
Is it possible for two people to ride on the same sled?
No, sled SpeedGlider X1 are designed for one person only. For shared rides, the park has other attractions, for example, Familien-Rafting (rafting for 4–6 people).
What to do if you feel bad during the descent?
Installed on the track emergency buttons every 200 meters. If you feel unwell, raise your hand and the operator will stop the sled using the remote brake. There is also a medical team on duty at the hill.
Can I take a GoPro or phone with me for filming?
Yes, but only if the following conditions are met:
- The phone must be fixed to chest strap or a special holder.
- Goupro permitted only in a waterproof case with a helmet mount.
- Taking pictures with a selfie stick prohibited - this is dangerous for other visitors.