Disney World Announces Splash Mountain Closure Date as Ride Begins to Crumble

in Walt Disney World

Posted on by Jess Colopy
Interior of Splash Mountain at Tokyo Disneyland

Credit: Disney

Last week, Walt Disney World Resort announced that Splash Mountain in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom would close on January 23, 2023, to make way for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, its Princess and the Frog (2009) retheme.

Briar Patch Sign
Credit: Disney

Despite the #SaveSplashMountain campaign and even a petition, Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort will say goodbye to this iteration of the decades-old log flume ride. Princess Tiana is “almost there!”

As the final Guests board Splash Mountain, many have complained about frequent breakdowns and poorly-maintained animatronics. Keith Malloy (@keithrm1027) rode Splash Mountain soon after the January closure was announced and had a less-than-magical experience.

Dozens of Guests in Splash Mountain logs jammed behind each other.
Credit: Keith Malloy Instagram

Malloy shared this photo on Instagram after getting stuck in a log jam early on in the ride. While jams are expected after the final drop as Guests exit Splash Mountain, these early jams are unusual. It’s unknown if they are indicative of a more significant issue.

Splash Mountain is operating normally at the time of this article’s publication.

More on Splash Mountain

Walt Disney world's Splash Mountain exterior at night
Credit: Disney

Splash Mountain will soon close at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. The Song of the South (1946) ride will remain the same at Tokyo Disneyland, though the Disney Park recently removed the ride’s anthem, “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah,” from its music loop. From Disney:

Drop into a whimsical world filled with classic characters and songs on this thrilling log-flume adventure.

A Hare-Raising Ride

Gently drift through a colorful Southern bayou along with happy-go-lucky Br’er Rabbit as he looks for his “laughing place.” But be warned: Br’er Bear and Br’er Fox are in hot pursuit of this wayward hare. 

Glide by over 100 adorable Audio-Animatronics geese, frogs, raccoons, possums, bees, alligators and other down-home critters as they sing classic Disney ditties, including “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah” and “Ev’rybody’s Got a Laughing Place.”

Then hang on to your hats—this delightful musical cruise ends in an exciting 5-story splashdown into a thorny Briar Patch!

An official poster announcing Tiana's Bayou Adventure, opening late 2024.
Credit: Disney Parks Blog

You Will Get Wet

This attraction includes 950,000 gallons of water, 3 dips and a 5-story drop. Where you’re seated will determine how wet you’ll get. Riders in the back may experience a sudden splash or spray; those who opt for the front can expect to get soaked. 

Have you noticed any maintenance issues on Splash Mountain at Disneyland Park or Magic Kingdom?

Please note that the story outlined in this article is based on a personal Disney Parks Guest experience. No two Guest experiences are alike, and this article does not necessarily align with Inside the Magic’s personal views on Disney Parks operations.

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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