High Five Explained – Theme Park Definition

A High Five is a near-miss coaster element in which two roller coaster trains on separate but closely spaced tracks pass each other at extremely short range — sometimes within arm's reach — creating an exhilarating illusion of imminent collision. The name comes from the sensation that riders could reach out and high-five occupants of the other train. The element depends on tight dispatch timing to synchronise both trains at the crossing point. Wing coasters and inverted coasters are especially well-suited to High Five elements because the outboard seating of the ride vehicles amplifies the near-miss sensation. Duelling Dragon / Dragon Challenge at Universal's Islands of Adventure was a celebrated early example; the element has since appeared on various B&M wing coasters and other near-miss designs around the world.