Rainbow Valley

A scenic lakeside valley awaits your first major roller coaster masterpiece.

Leafy Lake is the third scenario in the original RollerCoaster Tycoon campaign, following the introductory Forest Frontiers and the second scenario, Dynamite Dunes. This level tasks players with expanding beyond simple attractions to establish a fully functional theme park within a scenic lakeside landscape. It acts as a bridge between beginner tutorials and advanced financial management, requiring the player to balance ride construction, guest happiness, and budget constraints. Successfully completing Leafy Lake unlocks further scenarios in the classic progression chain of 21 scenarios.

Quick Facts

Campaign position: Scenario 3 of 21

Lore & Background

In the narrative of the original campaign, the Mayor tasks the player with transforming a quiet lakeside valley into a bustling tourist destination. Unlike the woodland-focused predecessor, Leafy Lake emphasizes the importance of variety in ride selection to attract diverse crowds. The terrain features natural elevation changes and a central lake that encourage creative track designs. This mission establishes the core philosophy of the franchise: a park is only as good as its guests' experiences. Players must learn that high thrill ratings do not guarantee success if queues are too long or facilities are dirty. It represents the transition from hobbyist to professional tycoon.

Reader's Guide

Begin by securing your entrance fees and purchasing additional land around the valley floor to maximize space for rides. Construct a balanced mix of gentle family attractions and thrilling roller coasters to appeal to different guest preferences. Ensure pathways are clear so visitors can navigate between shops and facilities without congestion. Monitor your finances closely; reinvest profits into maintenance and new ride construction while avoiding debt that could cripple growth. Hire sufficient staff to keep queues moving and cleanliness high, as unhappy guests will lower your park rating quickly. The ultimate objective is to increase the overall park value significantly before the campaign deadline arrives.