Herschend, Dollywood owner, acquiring Silverwood Theme Park
Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation has acquired Silverwood Theme Park and Boulder Beach Water Park in Athol, Idaho, from Silverwood, Inc.
Herschend and Silverwood announced the deal on Nov. 12, 2025, and as of March 27, 2026, the acquisition is complete.
Silverwood first opened in 1988 and includes such roller coasters as Corkscrew (imported from Knott’s Berry Farm), Timber Terror, and Stunt Pilot, among others.
Earlier in 2025, Herschend acquired a collection of parks from Palace Entertainment, including Kennywood (near Pittsburgh, Penn.) and Lake Compounce (near Hartford, Conn.), among others. Herschend also owns Dollywood and Silver Dollar City (and did so prior to the Palace purchases).
“Silverwood has been our family’s life’s work for more than three decades,” said Paul Norton, COO of Silverwood. “When the time came to pass the torch, Herschend was the only choice. They share our values, our long-term approach, and our belief that parks like this are built by people with heart.”
“This is more than a business transaction — it’s the continuation of a legacy,” said Andrew Wexler, CEO of Herschend. “We are honored that the Norton family has trusted us to carry their vision forward and excited to welcome the Silverwood hosts and guests to Herschend.”
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