One of the most talked-about coaster projects in Southern California has finally re-emerged with a new timeline. According to a press release issued by Six Flags on February 2, MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress is now officially listed as a new attraction for 2026 at Knott’s Berry Farm.

The announcement appears in a corporate document outlining 2026 additions across the Six Flags portfolio, confirming that the long-awaited reimagining of Montezooma’s Revenge is still very much alive, albeit later than originally planned.

A Long Road Back for a Knott’s Icon

Originally opened in 1978, Montezooma’s Revenge was one of the first flywheel-launched roller coasters in the world and quickly became a signature thrill ride at Knott’s Berry Farm. The coaster closed for major renovations in 2021, with an initial reopening target of 2023.

In 2022, the attraction was revealed to be returning under the expanded name Montezooma’s Revenge - The Forbidden Fortress, hinting at a heavier thematic overlay inspired by ancient mysteries and fortified ruins. Despite visible construction progress and several rounds of testing, the ride never reopened as scheduled.

Now, with Six Flags explicitly listing MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress as new in 2026, the project has a firm public target for the first time in several years.

At this stage, Knott’s Berry Farm has not released updated details regarding the changes. However, the new branding suggests a more immersive experience than the original minimalist shuttle coaster.

Part of a Broader Six Flags 2026 Line-Up

MonteZOOMa’s delayed debut is just one element of a wider slate of attractions planned across the Six Flags chain in 2026. According to the same press release, other highlights include:

• Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington, Texas
  New in 2026: A Spain-themed transformation featuring the record-breaking dive coaster Tormenta Rampaging Run, alongside the new Cocina Abuela restaurant.

• Kings Island & Soak City, Mason, Ohio
  New in 2026: Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare, an immersive and interactive family dark ride reviving a beloved park IP.

• Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, California
  New in 2026: Looney Tunes Land, a reimagined family zone with four themed areas inspired by classic animated characters.

• Six Flags New England & Hurricane Harbor, Springfield, Massachusetts
  New in 2026: Quantum Accelerator, billed as New England’s first launched straddle coaster.

What This Means for Knott’s Berry Farm

For Knott’s fans, the confirmation brings cautious optimism. Montezooma’s Revenge has been absent from the skyline for several years, and its return, especially with modernized theming, has the potential to restore a key thrill offering to the park’s Boardwalk area.

While no opening date beyond 2026 has been specified, the inclusion in Six Flags’ official forward-looking plans suggests the project is back on track after a prolonged and highly visible delay.

ThemeParks-US will continue to monitor construction progress, official announcements, and any further details released by Knott’s Berry Farm or Six Flags as MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress moves closer to launch.