MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress reopened at Knott's Berry Farm at noon on August 6, ending a closure that began in January 2022.
The $20 million rebuild kept the original station while replacing the train, launch system, track and supports. The shuttle coaster accelerates riders through its loop, climbs a spike, then runs the course in reverse. Its top speed is 55 mph.
Brady MacDonald's original report for the Southern California News Group says the renovated ride uses an electromagnetic launch built by Kumbak. Although the system can vary its launch direction, Knott's is beginning operations with a traditional forward launch.
The legend you've been asking for is finally ready to launch again. 🛕 🎢 #KnottsBerryFarm pic.twitter.com/wAehWIEFNd
— Knott's Berry Farm (@knotts) August 6, 2026
View the original announcement on X
The coaster opened in 1978 as Montezooma's Revenge, the first flywheel-launched coaster in the world. The new Forbidden Fortress storyline casts riders as treasure seekers entering a newly discovered Mayan temple.
Sources: Knott's Berry Farm's August 6 announcement, Southern California News Group's original report and the official attraction page.
Image and video: Knott's Berry Farm / Six Flags.