Goliath opened on February 11, 2000, at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, built by Swiss manufacturer Giovanola. The steel hypercoaster stood 235 feet tall and sent riders plunging 255 feet at a maximum vertical angle of 61 degrees, reaching a top speed of 85 mph — making it one of the most aggressive non-inverting coasters in the world at the time.
At its debut, Goliath briefly held the world record for both the longest drop and the highest top speed among full-circuit steel roller coasters. That distinction lasted only a few months before Cedar Point’s Millennium Force surpassed both marks in May 2000. Themed around ancient Mayan ruins, the ride features a 120-foot tunnel at the base of its first drop and a sweeping 585-degree helix that keeps sustained forces on riders well after the big plunge.
Stats at a Glance
- Park: Six Flags Magic Mountain
- Location: Valencia, California
- Manufacturer: Giovanola (Switzerland)
- Opened: February 11, 2000
- Height: 235 ft (72 m)
- Drop: 255 ft (78 m)
- Top Speed: 85 mph (137 km/h)
- Length: 4,500 ft (1,400 m)
- Inversions: 0
- Duration: About 3 minutes
The Ride Experience
From the moment the train crests the 235-foot lift hill, Goliath delivers a 255-foot plunge at a 61-degree angle — steep enough to generate serious airtime before riders blast through a 120-foot enclosed tunnel at the bottom. The transition from that darkness back into the open California sky is one of the ride’s signature moments.
After the first drop, the train sweeps through a series of high-speed curves and a massive 585-degree helix that keeps sustained lateral forces pressing riders into their seats. With no inversions, Goliath’s thrill comes entirely from speed, elevation change, and raw momentum — three trains each carrying 30 riders ensure the line keeps moving.
Records and Legacy
When Goliath launched in February 2000, it was the fastest and longest-dropping full-circuit steel coaster on earth. That reign lasted just three months: Cedar Point’s Millennium Force opened in May 2000 with a 300-foot drop and 93 mph top speed, instantly eclipsing both marks.
Despite losing its records quickly, Goliath cemented Six Flags Magic Mountain’s reputation as the coaster capital of the world — a park that was already home to more roller coasters than any other. Decades after opening, it remains one of the park’s signature headline attractions and a benchmark hypercoaster of its era.
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Goliath FAQs
How tall is Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain?
Goliath stands 235 feet (72 meters) tall and features a first drop of 255 feet (78 meters), which is actually longer than the ride’s overall height due to the terrain layout.
Who built Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain?
Goliath was manufactured by Giovanola, a Swiss company, and designed by Werner Stengel’s engineering firm. It opened on February 11, 2000.
Does Goliath have any loops or inversions?
No. Goliath has zero inversions. Its thrills come entirely from its 255-foot drop, 85 mph top speed, and a 585-degree helix rather than upside-down elements.
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Photo: Jeff Turner from Santa Clarita, CA, United States / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.