Knott’s Berry Farm has taken a major step toward reopening one of its most iconic roller coasters, Montezooma’s Revenge, as work continues on the ride’s long-awaited transformation.
The park confirmed that the signature loop for MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress — a reimagined version of the historic coaster — has been installed.
“Construction on MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress has been underway, and we have finished the loop, marking an important milestone. We look forward to sharing all the details of the new ride soon, including when it will open,” a park spokesperson told KTLA 5 in an emailed statement.
Theme Park content creator Just Ask Danny shared photos of the construction with KTLA 5.
Montezooma’s Revenge, which debuted in 1978, has been closed since 2022. Knott’s announced an overhaul of the ride last year but offered few details at the time. The new version, renamed MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress, will anchor the redesigned Fiesta Village.
The coaster is a favorite among many thrill seekers and has been designated a landmark by the American Coaster Enthusiasts. The organization recognizes Montezooma’s Revenge as the last operating ride of its kind in the United States and the longest standing in its original location.
Only 45 other roller coasters worldwide have been designated as ACE landmarks.
The thrill ride “catapults passengers out of the station at 55 miles per hour, up through a 76-foot, 360° loop, and then to the top of a 148-foot tower.”
After a moment of weightlessness, the train zooms down the tower, backward, goes through the loop, and passes through the station up a second 112-foot tower, then down the tower into the station,” according to the Knott’s website.
