Silver Dollar City announces end for ‘Fire in the Hole’ coaster

BRANSON, Mo. — Silver Dollar City announced Monday this upcoming season will be the last chance for riders to experience the indoor roller coaster, Fire in the Hole.

“More than 25 million guests have been entertained by the Fire In the Hole adventure since the attraction opened a half-century ago,” said Brad Thomas, president of Silver Dollar City Attractions. “Today’s riders include grandparents who remember riding when they were kids, and now they share the fun and unique experience with their grandkids!”

The attraction was introduced at the park in 1972 with a focus on the real-life mining town, Marmaros, which was located atop Marvel Cave in the Ozarks. Silver Dollar City itself opened just 12 years earlier in 1960.

Silver Dollar City train derailment injures 7 people in Branson

The announcement of the ride’s final season comes as the park prepares for 10-year growth plan.

The ride’s maintenance supervisor, who has worked on the ride since the ‘80s, said in a Facebook Live he plans to be one of the last people to ride the ride.

Silver Dollar City announced end for 'Fire in the Hole' coaster (Silver Dollar City)

Right now there is no word what will come next to replace the iconic ride, but it’s safe to say the pressure is on.

Founder of the European Coaster Club, Justin Garvanovic says he hopes to get back to the park for one last ride, calling the ride “ground-breaking.”

“Custom-built, enclosed roller coasters are an uncommon thing and Silver Dollar City has operated Fire In The Hole longer than any other,” says Duane Marden, founder of RCDB (Roller Coaster Data Base). “I’m grateful that Silver Dollar City is giving guests fair notice to enjoy this classic ride for one final season.”