Everything You Need to Know about Texas' First Alpine Coaster

Scenic drives are nice and all, but sometimes the best way to experience the Great Outside is on the edge of your comfort zone. With the iconic Texas Hill Country as your playground, come experience adventure — the Fimfo way. Keep reading for everything you should know about Texas' first and only alpine coaster, The Cliff Carver.

A closeup of The Cliff Carver, the first alpine coaster in Texas

The Cliff Carver

Experience the rush of Texas’ first and only alpine coaster, The Cliff Carver! Located in New Braunfels, TX within Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country, The Cliff Carver opened to riders in March of 2023. Why? Because Texas needed some ADVENTURE, of course! The coaster uses physics and gravity for a smooth yet thrilling ride through the hills of Hill Country. Although located within Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country, adventurers do not need to be a guest of Camp Fimfo to book an adventure experience, the coaster is open to the public.

Unlike the rickety wooden coasters of the past, The Cliff Carver is a gravity-propelled sled that includes manual brakes, so riders can control their speed down the track. The track bobs and weaves for nearly 1 mile down the hill, offering stunning views of Texas Hill Country along the way. Zoom down the mountain at speeds up to 25mph, or opt for a leisurely ride to take in the scenery - the choice is yours!

Aerial view of The Cliff Carver, the first and only alpine coaster in Texas

What Is An Alpine Coaster?

Wondering what an alpine coaster is? No problem! Alpine coasters are a great outdoor experience that the whole family can enjoy! Alpine coaster, or mountain coasters, is a type of rollercoaster found in mountainous or hilly areas. Riders sit in a cart, similar to a bobsled, that is attached to a fix track. Alpine coasters use the natural elevation of the land in the area and gravity to take riders down the mountain.

Unlike traditional roller coasters, alpine coasters have manual brakes that enable riders to control their speed on downtracks. What does this mean? It means that you are in control of your own experience!

The best way for you to get the feel for what an alpine coaster really is... is to come try our Texas alpine coaster for yourself!

A happy guest riding The Cliff Carver at Camp Fimfo, the only alpine coaster in Texas

Cliff Carver FAQ's

Now that you're in the know on all things coaster-related, here are some frequently asked questions and answers to best equip you for your first ride our mountain coaster in Texas, The Cliff Carver! Check out our coaster safety video while you're at it!

What is the cost?
- $20 for a single rider, $35 for a pair
Is it safe?
- YES! Belt systems ensure drivers and passengers are held securely in their seats. Manual brakes allow riders to adjust the speed to what makes them the most comfortable. Each sled is fitted with a centrigual brake, or a brake that limits maximum speed, ensuring maximum safeety for occupants, even when the manual brake is not used. Riders should follow all rules and regulations.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
- Yes — a signed waiver is required prior to getting in line to ride.
- Parent or legal guardian must sign for riders under age 18
How many riders are allowed on one sled?
- There is a maximum of two riders per sled. There is a driver seat and a passenger seat in front.
What are the age and height requirements?
- Must be 9 years or older and a minimum of 54" tall to drive or ride alone
- Drivers must be 16 years or older to drive with an accompanying passenger
- Must be 3 years or older and a minimum of 38" to ride as a passenger
- Passengers must be accompanied by a driver of 16 years or older
What are the weight restrictions?
- The total weight of the sled occupants must not exceed 375 lbs during dry conditions, or 330 lbs during wet conditions
Do I need to be a Camp Fimfo guest to ride?
- Although located within Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country, adventurers do not need to be a guest of Camp Fimfo to book. The Cliff Carver is open to the public
What is the address?
- 520 Whitewater Way, New Braunfels, TX
What are your operating hours?
- During summer and early fall — open daily 11AM - 8PM
- During the late fall — open weekends 12PM - 7PM
- During the winter and spring — open weekends 12PM - 6PM

An aerial view of The Cliff Carver at Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country

How to Book

Ready to ride? We highly suggest booking online ahead of time. This makes it easier for you, and easier for us. You will book a time slot to ride, ensuring less time standing in line and more time having fun! Book online here, arrive on-site and head to the Camp Fimfo General Store. At the General Store, you will check-in and sign a physical waiver prior to riding. Once you sign, you're good to go! You'll head to the Coaster Building next door and get buckled in to ride our unique Texas coaster!

We do allow walk-ins. If you have not already booked online, you can head straight to the General Store to see what available ride time slots we have open. You can book your ride, sign your waiver, and either go straight to the Coaster Building, or come back when it's your time to ride!

NOTE: there may not be a time slot available immediately upon arrival if you book on-site.

We hope this helps you feel more prepared, comfortable and excited leading up to your first Cliff Carver ride. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our on-site team at (830) 743-9803. Until then, we look forward to seeing you soon!