Runaway Mine Train

Boomtown
42" Height Requirement
Lapbar Restraints

Medium Thrill
Flash Pass Attraction
Ride Status & Wait Time

Opened July 23, 1966
Ride Type Steel Mine Train Coaster
Ride Height 35 Feet
Track Length 2,400 Feet
Top Speed 35 MPH
Trains 3
Cars Per Train 5
Riders Per Car 6
Manufacturer Arrow Dynamics
Ride Colors Red & Black

The First-Ever?

Much debate arises when people talk about Runaway Mine Train and its status as the first steel tubular roller coaster in the world. The Matterhorn Bobsled at Disneyland opened on June 14, 1959 and was officially the world’s first steel tubular roller coaster. However, Runaway Mine Train is known as the first-ever mine train roller coaster in the world. Designed by Ron Toomer and Arrow Dynamics, Runaway Mine Train cost $1 million to complete and was opened in 1966. The ride was highly-themed with a unique station, multiple lifts, tunnels, a waterfall and even the Ace Hotel that sends riders plummeting into an underwater tunnel.

Runaway Mine Train’s station and queue house.

Runaway Mine Train is considered the world’s first mine train roller coaster.

Riders make their way back to the station after enduring the underwater tunnel finale.

A Roller Coaster Landmark

In 2002, an organization known as American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) created the Roller Coaster Landmark award to recognize roller coasters of historical significance. In 2006, ACE awarded Runaway Mine Train with the Roller Coaster Landmark award. This was also the ride's 40th anniversary. Near the entrance to the ride, a plaque has been erected, officially recognizing Runaway Mine Train as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark.

Ride History

  • 2023

    • In January, Runaway Mine Train closes as its control system undergoes upgrades.

    • Runaway Mine Train reopens in July after control system upgrades.

  • 2001

    • Mine Train is renamed back to Runaway Mine Train.

    • Runaway Mine Train receives a paint job.

  • 1997

    • The action of running four trains at one time is reduced to three.

  • 1996

    • Runaway Mine Train is renamed Mine Train.

Each of the coaster’s trains hold up to 30 riders.

Runaway Mine Train carries a Boomtown theme, suitable to its surrounding area.

Runaway Mine Train debuted during the park’s 1966 season.

Runaway Mine Train features a max height of 35 feet.

Unlike most traditional coasters, Mine Train’s biggest drop is during the finale.