A Bold Idea with Risky Execution
Action Park, opened in 1978 in Vernon Township, New Jersey, was the brainchild of Gene Mulvihill. Designed to combine the thrill of skiing with self-controlled rides, the park became known for its unconventional attractions, such as the Alpine Slide and Motorworld, and for its lack of safety measures.
Dangerous Attractions and Accidents
With 75 attractions, including water slides, go-karts, and bungee jumps, Action Park drew over a million visitors annually in the 1980s. However, its poorly maintained rides, undertrained staff, and lack of oversight resulted in numerous injuries. Notably, the Cannonball Loop slide caused injuries so severe it closed shortly after opening.
Tragic Fatalities
The park’s history includes at least six fatalities, such as drownings in the Tidal Wave Pool and accidents on rides like the Alpine Slide. Many incidents were attributed to negligence, such as inadequate ride testing and intoxicated visitors.
Closure and Rebirth
After financial struggles and lawsuits, Action Park closed in 1996. In 1998, the park reopened as Mountain Creek Waterpark with revamped attractions, leaving behind the chaotic legacy of “Traction Park” and its infamous thrills.
Action Park, opened in 1978 in Vernon, New Jersey, promised thrill-seekers a wild experience with rides like the Alpine Slide and Motorworld. But its daring attractions, minimal safety measures, and lack of oversight earned it nicknames like "Traction Park" and "Class Action… pic.twitter.com/4zor6WOAQ4
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) January 8, 2025