We’re all used to rides breaking down at Disneyland. It’s par for the course. Some days you don’t even get to ride your favorites. Splash Mountain had to close temporarily due to an unexpected visitor. Park guest Katie Harnish managed to snap a photo of a baby possum that had found its way onto the ride’s tracks. Soaked, but looking no worse for wear, how the possum got there is anyone’s guess. Harnish posted the photo to reddit, where it was met with a flood of sympathy and love for the poor creature.
The ride was closed while park management took care of getting the critter moved. Disneyland is home to a large number of cats, all of which are fed and cared for. Disney parks are known for their compassionate treatment of animals, employed or otherwise. So hopefully this little possum is somewhere warm and safe.
Aside from real animals, park patrons will soon be saying farewell to the animatronic ones that populate Splash Mountain. Instead, we’ll follow Tiana from “The Princess and the Frog” and her alligator pal Louis as they explore Mardis Gras. With a plan to put together their own celebration, it’s sure to dazzle as only Disney attractions can. We’ll be getting this new iteration of the ride a bit later than other parks, however.
While Disney’s Orlando park will close Splash Mountain January 2023 to begin the re-theming process, Disney’s Anaheim park won’t see Tiana’s Bayou Adventure until late 2024. The ride is not yet scheduled for closure. So park-goers will have about a year’s time to enjoy Splash Mountain before it’s gone.
