Knott’s Berry Farm’s Timber Mountain Log Ride celebrates 50th anniversary

The Timber Mountain Log Ride opened at Knott’s Berry Farm on July 11th, 1969, as one of the first flume rides in the US. Designed and created by theme park pioneer, Bud Hurlbut, the ride’s legendary theming and finale drop were credited as the first of its kind when it debuted back in ’69 and raised the bar for themed attractions across the country. The Log Ride has delighted guests for 50 years, with a splash worthy adventure through a 330 foot (101 m) long mountain that houses a 19th-century lumber camp. In 2013 the Log Ride underwent an extensive restoration which included new audio-animatronics created by Garner Holt Productions. In celebration of the 50th anniversary, the Log Ride debuted two new animatronics.

When the Timber Mountain Log Ride opened on July 11, 1969, it was christened by Cordelia Knott with a bottle of Boysenberry Juice. The first rider was screen legend and friend of Walter Knott, John Wayne. The ride is eight stories high with a 42 foot (13 m) drop into a heart-pounding splash while reaching a top speed of 30 mph (48 kph).