Water Slides Will Surge at Six Flags

VALENCIA — Riding a surge in popularity in water parks, Six Flags California announced Thursday that it will more than double the number of slides at its Hurricane Harbor water park as part of an expansion at the tropical-themed attraction.

Set to open in late May or early June, the expansion will bring to 22 the number of water slides at Hurricane Harbor. The park also plans to construct a private picnic area to accommodate large groups and corporate parties.

Opened in June 1995 next to the existing Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park, Hurricane Harbor was an attempt by Six Flags California to turn the Valencia complex into a multi-day tourist destination.

Although she wouldn’t disclose attendance figures, Six Flags spokesman Bonnie Rabjohn said strong visitor demand convinced the company to expand the water park element this year. She said the company also wants to position itself to compete with San Dimas-based Raging Waters, Southern California’s premier water park.

“People who like Raging Waters will definitely want to try Hurricane Harbor,” said Rabjohn, who would not disclose the cost of the planned improvements. “This will allow us to appeal to a wider audience and encourage guests to stay longer.”

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The highlight of the proposed expansion is a 75-foot-tall tower called Black Snake Summit. Among the five water slides branching from the tower will be two fully enclosed, twisting slides called the Twisted Fang and the Coiled Cobra, as well as a open flume body slide with a nearly vertical 75-foot drop called the Venom Drop.

Analysts said the nation’s water park industry has shown solid growth in recent years, attracting nearly 50 million visitors annually. Because water parks are cheaper to build and expand than theme parks, the Hurricane Harbor expansion is a way for Six Flags to offer something new to lure visitors without spending a lot, says Newport Beach consultant Mike King.

“It has the potential to offer a great financial return for a relatively low capital investment,” said King of Leisure Entertainment Development and Operations International.

Six Flags California could use a winner. Last year’s scuttled opening of Superman the Escape at Six Flags Magic Mountain was a public relations nightmare. The blockbuster roller coaster was expected to be a major draw, until mechanical glitches forced the park to scrap the debut until this year.