NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas — Schlitterbahn New Braunfels has unveiled Wasserbahn Racers, a new high-speed mat racing attraction set to debut for the 2026 season. The three-lane racer will headline a major year for the world-famous waterpark, alongside a series of enhancements throughout the property.

Designed for fast-paced competition and splash-filled thrills, Wasserbahn Racers will send riders racing face-first down a specially designed course carved into the park’s natural hillside near the Comal River. The attraction embraces Schlitterbahn’s signature Hill Country setting, offering scenic views and a ride experience integrated directly into the landscape.

A High-Speed Racing Experience

Developed by WhiteWater, a global leader in water attraction design, Wasserbahn Racers features a three-lane racing slide built for side-by-side competition. Riders will launch from the top and race through a series of dips and chutes before finishing with a signature Schlitterbahn splashdown.

Key features of the attraction include:

• Three-lane mat racing slide

• 278.6 feet of racing length

• 37.6-foot starting elevation

• Top speeds exceeding 24 mph

• A real-time stopwatch clock displaying riders’ results at the finish line

The timing system makes Wasserbahn Racers the only mat racing attraction in Texas where guests can instantly see their race results, adding a competitive element designed for bragging rights among friends and families.

Built Into the Hill Country Landscape

The new attraction is being constructed along the park’s sloping terrain near the Comal River, taking advantage of Schlitterbahn’s natural setting. Riders will experience sweeping views of the Hill Country as they speed toward the finish line.

A Landmark Year for Schlitterbahn

Park officials say the new attraction will be a centerpiece of an exciting season ahead.

“Wasserbahn Racers will be a highlight of a big year for Schlitterbahn New Braunfels,” said Justin Loehr, park manager at Schlitterbahn New Braunfels. “Generations of families have built memories here, and the park is excited to introduce an all-new attraction while continuing to enhance classic favorites across the property. We cannot wait to see guests race for bragging rights this summer.”

Parkwide Improvements Planned

In addition to the debut of Wasserbahn Racers, the 2026 season will include upgrades across several areas of the park. Improvements are planned for the resort properties as well as attractions including Blastenhoff Tower, Han’s Hideout, the Submarine and Octopus slides, and the Pirate Ship at Surfenburg.

Unveiled With High-Speed Style

The attraction was revealed Wednesday during a construction-site preview event for media and community partners. The announcement featured an eye-catching lineup of Vipers, Ferraris and other exotic racecars to match the racing theme of the new slide.

Attendees were given a first look at concept renderings and design details, while Schatze, Schlitterbahn’s mascot, made a special appearance dressed in race-ready gear.

Opening Day and Season Passes

Schlitterbahn New Braunfels will open for the 2026 season on May 2, with season pass holders getting the first opportunity to ride Wasserbahn Racers. The attraction will open to all guests shortly after.

The 2026 Season Pass includes unlimited visits to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels and Schlitterbahn Galveston, as well as admission to Six Flags theme parks and Hurricane Harbor waterparks across Texas, plus Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City and Frontier City. Season passes start at $95.

More information about tickets, season passes and park hours is available at sixflags.com/schlitterbahnnewbraunfels.