THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Feel the rush on Illinois' first alpine coaster at Aerie's Resort, where scenic views meet adrenaline. Discover this unique thrill in Grafton and enjoy a day packed with outdoor fun!
Feel the rush on Illinois' first alpine coaster at Aerie's Resort, where scenic views meet adrenaline. Discover this unique thrill in Grafton and enjoy a day packed with outdoor fun!
Book with Aerie's Resort
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Aerie's Resort · Grafton, Illinois
Aerie's Resort in Grafton, Illinois, offers an adrenaline-fueled attraction that’s perfect for thrill-seekers and family fun alike. Nestled along the scenic shores of the Mississippi River, this region boasts a vibrant outdoor scene that blends natural beauty with heart-pumping activities. The star of the show is Aerie's Alpine Coaster—Illinois' first alpine coaster—a nearly 4,000-foot track winding through the wooded landscape. With seven hairpin turns and eight wave sections, gravity takes the wheel as riders careen through the forest at speeds that range from gentle glides to exhilarating descents.
The coaster’s design capitalizes on the area's rolling terrain, creating a dynamic ride that combines speed, dips, and scenic views of the river valley. This attraction is perfect for visitors of all ages, offering a safe yet adrenaline-packed experience. Reaching the coaster requires a lift ride on the SkyTour aerial lift, which itself offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding hardwood forests and river vistas, setting the tone for a memorable day.
What makes Aerie's Resort stand out is its commitment to providing fun year-round, with winter sledding, mountain biking trails, and a cozy lodge for unwinding. The resort’s location at the confluence of Illinois’ natural beauty and outdoor adventure gear makes it a must-visit destination for both local residents and travelers seeking a quick outdoor escape.
Whether you're racing down the track or soaking in the views from the lift, Aerie's Alpine Coaster promises a high-energy day that balances nature’s serenity with the thrill of adventure. It’s an experience that captures the spirit of outdoor recreation in Illinois—adventurous, accessible, and fun for everyone.
Yes, the coaster is designed for a wide age range, but children must meet minimum height and age requirements for safety.
Reservations are recommended during peak seasons, but walk-ins are accepted if capacity allows.
Yes, the lift ride to the coaster is included and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
Guests should review safety guidelines on the website; generally, individuals with certain health conditions should consult a staff member.
All rides are operated by trained staff, with safety belts and instructions provided for all riders.
Outside food and gear are not permitted on rides, but there are concessions and picnic areas available.
Aerie's Resort is a family-friendly adventure destination located in Grafton, Illinois. The resort operates Illinois' first alpine coaster — nearly 4,000 feet of track with seven hair-pin turns and eight waves — accessed via the SkyTour aerial lift. The SkyTour provides scenic rides with panoramic views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers and direct access to Aerie's restaurants, the Alpine Coaster, and the property ziplines. Aerie's also offers guided UTV tours: 30-minute excursions in brand-new six-passenger Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT vehicles that take guests across hills and hollows, through creek beds and past limestone formations where local wildlife sightings are common. Tours are led by trained staff who focus on safety and route familiarity, and the resort welcomes guests of all ages to enjoy the attractions. Public parking and visitor information available.
Book with Aerie's Resort