Photos: Colossus at Six Flags Magic Mountain

Riders head toward one of two high drops aboard the Colossus roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Aug. 14, 2014 6:20 PM PT

Once the nation’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, Colossus at Magic Mountain is closing.

Wood roller coasters are waning as speedy and sleek steel coasters have gained popularity. Above, riders on Six Flags Magic Mountain’s wooden Colossus. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Colossus opened on June 29, 1978, and was billed as the tallest and fastest wooden roller coaster in the U.S. The ride features two drops greater than 100 feet. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Three hundred fans have signed a petition calling for the Colossus roller coaster to remain open at Six Flags Magic Mountain. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Rumors are swirling that Colossus could reopen with reinforced steel tracks and a new name. Six Flags says future plans will be announced Aug. 28. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)