The wind in my hair, the sun on my face, and plenty of dry, downhill fun. |
The town of Anaconda in Montana has tarnished a bit since the close of the world class smelter operation some years back. The classic homes are still there, and its history is richer for the journey, but today tourists make up a good part of the city’s plan. That’s why they built the Copper Chute Slide, however, I can’t help but think, "Smelter? that’s a funny word."
Anaconda is located about five miles south off Interstate 90 between Butte and Missoula. Travel in, out and through are all very easy, and there’s plenty of restaurants to whet your appetite and fill your tummy, but the draw that pulled us in was the hugely gigantinormous slide.
Big water slides are hardly novel, but a 140-foot dry slide is mighty unique.
The first thing you have to do is make the ascent to the summit, no small feat of its own. It takes courage and stamina to make the journey, though I substituted fearlessness and sheer excitement.
The top of the slide starts off steep to get you up to speed, and tapers off to let you enjoy the ride. It’s made out of skating rink sideboards, so the friction is fairly reasonable. Still, this is not a ride I’d recommend for those without pants.
For greatest speed, keep your shoes off the surface. To slow down, just connect any amount of sole to slide and the Newtons just shed away.
It’s located barely south of the old downtown, about two blocks west of Commercial (the main drag). Our GPS had the location wrong, but you can see it on the skyline from a good five blocks away, or just ask anyone in town where it is, they know, believe me, they know.
It’s not an attended ride so bring your own parents and ride at your own risk. That also means it’s free, so even if you’re not planning a stop in Anaconda, it’s basically along your way, so consider it even on its own merits.
And don’t forget to throw your arms up and say “wee!? it really makes the ride that much more enjoyable. Some degree of giggling is also recommended, but not required.
ABOVE: Look on with awe at the 140-feet of sheer adrenaline. Notice too the sharp angle at the top. That right there really puts your journey in motion.
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
