[4][5] Its figure-eight design was common on side friction roller coasters constructed in the early 1900s, reaching peak popularity in the Roaring Twenties.

[6][8] Prior to its restoration by P. Joseph Lehman, Inc., Consulting Engineers, the roller coaster was added to the list of National Register of Historic Places in 1993.

The lift mechanism includes a ratchet system to prevent cars from rolling backwards in the event of a chain failure.

[13] Although the ride is quite tame by modern standards with a height of 41 feet (12 m) and speed of 10 mph (16 km/h), it remains a popular attraction due to its historical significance.

This design became obsolete after World War I when side friction was supplanted by under-track mechanisms, which offered better vehicle security and support for greater speeds.

[14] Very few side friction roller coasters survived into the 1980s, and Leap-the-Dips at Lakemont Park is believed to be the last remaining figure-eight model of its kind still in operation.