The Rattler at Six Flags Fiesta Texas should be renamed Two-Face after the Batman villian. The massive wooden coaster
built on a cliff wall has some awesome moments and then some of that vintage wooden coaster abuse that we’ve all come to know so well.
The trek to the Rattler’s station in itself was memorable. After moving past some large boulders that outline the queue, you begin to ascend a sort of switchback ramp that has you walking back and forth for about 5 or 6 stories. I’m guessing Rattler’s station is elevated so that the lift hill can carry you up over the cliff walls. It’s a lift hill that offers one of the most amazing views I’ve ever seen from a roller coaster. You’ve got this great view of the entire beautiful, green park to your left with the cliff walls around it. Then as you begin to crest the hill there’s a glimmering pond below.
The first drop is fun with a bit of air and some great speed. A second drop with a turn follows and the Rattler had a great 
opening. But unfortunately, my smile quickly faded as we began the 900 degree downward helix atop the cliff. Around we went, getting pummeled nearly all the way through it. Instead of just banking us around those turns, the designers figured they would put some small hills on the helix. They didn’t work out so well and after a while I started wondering when it was going to end.
After the lengthy beating, the ride showed another bright spot. We rolled out over the cliff and down an excellent drop as you realize that the massive ride’s not over. At the bottom of the drop, the train is gobbled up by a pitch black tunnel that took us through the limestone cliff wall. This was yet another really cool moment. Unfortunately, Rattler limped to finish line by doing it’s best Mean Streak impression with rough,  aimless meandering that could have been fun at some point, but was now just boring and painful. Finally, the train reached the station brakes and we returned to the station.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas’ Rattler has so much potential and could be such a great ride. It’s pretty tough for me to rate, but I’ll give it a generous 5. It’ll probably be one of the best-rated rough woodies I’ve ever encountered, but with my love of terrain coasters and the unique views and experience it provides that’s where I’ve landed on my rating. Final Rating (5.0 – Average)
The Rattler at Six Flags Fiesta Texas is rated ‘TR’ for Traditional. It’s a 2 out of 5 on the Thrill Scale. Even though it’s quite large it offers a pretty standard wooden coaster ride in terms of intensity.
The Rattler’s Infamous Past
I wasn’t aware of the Rattler’s infamous past, but apparently, it was a world-record holder for height when it opened at 179′ tall with a drop of 166′. Enthusiasts are saying it had an in-house design and had some funky curves and transitions in its original form. After re-profiling, the ride’s first drop was reduced to its current 124′. Some feel its greatness was taken away when the drop was reduced while others note that it wasn’t that great from the beginning.
I’d rather post a current video, but I haven’t been able to find a professional version. So, here’s a POV video of the Rattler at Six Flags Fiesta Texas from 1992 before it’s re-profile:
What’s Your Take?
Have you ridden Rattler? What’d you think? Leave a comment below.