The amusement park affectionately known locally as “Lake Winnie” celebrated its 100th birthday this month. Lake Winnepesaukah in Rossville, GA originally opened its doors on June 1, 1925. The name is from a Native American word that means “bountiful waters” or “beautiful lake of the highlands” and fits with the 9 acre lake on the park site. The park even still has one original 1925 attraction with the Boat Chute ride, which is oldest Mill Chute attraction still in operation in the United States.

The park’s best known attraction is the Cannon Ball wooden roller coaster built in 1967. It was designed by famous wooden roller coaster designer, John C. Allen, who was also responsible for several other famous wooden coasters such as Blue Streak at Cedar Point, The Racer at King’s Island and The Great American Scream Machine at Six Flags Over Georgia. Cannon Ball, along with the 3 other Allen coasters mentioned, are all ACE (American Coaster Enthusuasts) Landmark Coasters. Cannon Ball is an “out and back” design with a height of 70 feet and reaching 50 mph. It is a beautiful ride and the park’s train passes right through it,offering some great views.

Lake Winnie is more of a locals park, but its location just outside Chattanooga, TN is only about 2.5 hours from Dollywood and under 2 hours from Six Flags Over Georgia. It could be a great addition to a trip at just $43.95 for a day pass. The park is filled with lots of character and charm from the midway along the water to classic rides to the clown trash cans. Happy Birthday Lake Winnie!