Rainbow Ridge Pack Mules was a former attraction at Disneyland that opened in 1955 and operated until 1973. The attraction was located in Frontierland and consisted of mule rides that took guests on a scenic journey through the park’s wilderness areas.
Guests would be assigned to a mule and then ride along a scenic trail that wound its way through Rainbow Ridge and other areas of Frontierland. The mules were specially trained to navigate the rugged terrain, and the ride was considered to be one of the most unique and adventurous attractions at the park.
The ride’s popularity began to decline in the late 1960s, as other, more exciting attractions began to be added to the park. In 1973, Rainbow Ridge Pack Mules was closed and replaced by the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad roller coaster, which remains a popular attraction at Disneyland to this day.
However, the mule ride concept was not entirely lost. In 1974, a new version of the ride called the Big Thunder Mountain Pack Mules was introduced, which took guests on a similar journey but with a slightly different route. The Big Thunder Mountain Pack Mules operated until 1977, when it was replaced by the Big Thunder Ranch, a petting zoo and event space.
At a Glance
- Disney Resort: Disneyland Resort
- Disney Park: Disneyland Park Info News and Attractions
- Park Area: Disneyland Frontierland
- Attraction Type: Disney Rides, Extinct Disney Attractions
- Year Opened: 1955
- Year Closed: 1973
- Replaced: Original Attraction
- Replaced By: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
