Thanks to The Gauntlet, butterflies fill visitors' stomachs long before they even enter Magic Springs and Crystal Falls Water and Theme Park. The coaster looms high over the parking lot—forming a bright yellow web out of some 2,200 feet of steel track. Then, shrieks echo as riders plunge down a 110-foot drop and rocket through five inverted loops before finally planting their feet back on solid ground. And that's just the beginning.

Sprawling across the grounds are dozens of other attractions that cater to all levels of thrill-seeker. While the X-Coaster dangles riders and inspires avant-garde hair styles with its slowed-down loop, the family-friendly Big Bad John takes others on a runaway train ride through the forest. Elsewhere, a kiddie airplane ride and a carousel delight tiny visitors, and everyone can break to eat at the Lakeside Ice Cream Parlor.