After four long years of delays, false starts and endless speculation, one of Southern California’s most beloved thrill rides is finally making its comeback at Knott’s Berry Farm.
The amusement park confirmed to the OC Register that the reimagined Montezooma’s Revenge rollercoaster will reopen this summer following a lengthy renovation project.
Originally opened in 1978, Montezooma’s Revenge quickly became one of Knott’s signature attractions thanks to its lighting-fast launch, vertical loop and unusual shuttle designs.
It was shut down in 2022 for what was reportedly meant to be a “multi-month refurbishment project,” which turned into a years-long saga plagued by construction setbacks redesigns and missed reopening targets.
“I honestly thought they had given up on this a Looooong time ago,” one redditor commented on a subreddit dedicated to the reopening. “Seeing them actually complete the project is mind blowing to me.”
Now, Knott’s says the coaster is finally on track to debut this summer.
“The park is eagerly awaiting to see the ancient legend rise again,” Knott’s officials told the OC Register. “We are getting close to unveiling an opening date and welcoming all who are brave enough to embark on an unforgettable expedition in search of Montezuma’s elusive gold.”
The attraction will return with a fresh story line and technology upgrades under the name “MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress,” although no specific date has been announced. Among the changes is a new track, new hardware and a Linear Synchronous Motor launch system with randomized launch sequences designed to make each ride slightly different.
Social media has been buzzing with excitement, with coaster enthusiasts celebrating the return of a ride many feared might never operate again.
If all goes according to plan, visitors will once again be launched from zero to 55 mph in 4.5 seconds before racing through the coaster’s famous loop.
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