Thunder River at Astroworld in Houston

The year was 1980, and Astroworld birthed a ride concept that had never quite been done before: Thunder River. Thunder River was the world's first "river rapids ride" and definitely one of the most popular of all time. Built southwest of the Bamboo Shoot, outside the park's railroad tracks, Thunder River was a perennial favorite in the park.

The ride itself went through very few changes throughout its history, other than enhanced safety features like better rafts.

"Thunder River was our favorite," recalls one Astroworld fan. "Not only was it an exciting ride, and a perfect way to cool off during the hot summer, but my mom had the most terrible luck on it. Every time we'd ride, the raft would get stuck somewhere and they'd blast jet to try to move us. The jets would blast right on her and she'd leave the ride soaked every single time."

"The ride was amazing," recalls another fan. "Just like the real thing. Just like a real river rapids ride. Even better than tubing."

Nowadays, those who are looking for their Thunder River fix can check out Six Flags St. Louis, Six Flags Over Texas and Six Flags Over Georgia, and similar rides exist at almost every other Six Flags theme park.