Mine Train Through Nature's Wonderland

[BigThunder]

Hello MicChatters, I'm hoping that some of you may be able to help me out...

I am building a 1/4" scale model of the classic Disneyland attraction Mine Train Through Nature's Wonderland (yes I am a total geek with too much time on my hands). This was an E-ticket attraction in Frontierland, located where Big Thunder Mt. RR is now. There were different versions of this ride over time, but I am interested in the last version that existed from 1960 to 1976.

What I'm looking for specifically is an overhead view that shows the track plan winding its way through Nature's Wonderland and the Painted Desert. However any pictures or memories that any of you may have of the attraction would be greatly appreciated.

I have already been to the Yesterland site and the Disney Phenom site but I still need more info.

Thanks everyone, and I will post pictures of this project as it progresses.

[Dustysage]

I seem to recall an overhead shot of Mine Train in an old issue of the E-Ticket Mag. Check out issue #29 on their web site for more about Mine Train. http://www.the-e-ticket.com/Issue_page_29.html

Hope this helps,
-Dusty

[BigThunder]

^Thanks for the tip Dusty. I've ordered the issue.

[NWRREngineer]

I'll send you a PM that could be very helpful in this regard.

[sgtsloth]

It'd be sweet to see some pics of what you're working on, BigThunder!

[BigThunder]

^Thanks. As soon as I have something to show I will post it in this thread.

[Kevie]

Should be so cool when you're done! Good luck.

Also, you're lucky to have too much time on your hands. I don't like school. Blah.

[themur]

What a great idea. Love to keep tabs with you as you move forward with this project.

[Mickeymus Prime]

Ya know if I had the room to have a model Railroad setup in my home, this is what I would do too... I cant wait to see pics, progress shots and after shots would be really cool.

[Tinkerbell]

I don't have anything to help you, but I just wanted to say that I think this is such a great idea. I used to put models together when I was young and they were so fun! Had a whole Storybookland Canal thing going on... maybe I should try that again.
Good luck with your project! Oh, and I don't think you're a geek. If I had the room I'd have an entire model of Disneyland!

[BigThunder]

^Lol. So would I. But since I only have room for a small part of it this is what I'm planning to build:



This is the most recent plan I've come up with based on the info that I have so far. Fans of the attraction may notice that I had to fudge a bit to make it fit into my available space. Basicly, I streched the whole thing out to make it more linear while still trying to retain as much of the original track plan as possible. I only wish thatI had the space to include a little more of the Rivers of America and maybe a model of the Mark Twain steaming passed. Oh, well. Here's what I do plan to include:

- Two complete operating trains (of course).
- Lighting and sound effect in the little town of Rainbow Ridge.
- As much animation as I can on the critters and teetering boulders.
- Realistic water effects on Cascade Peak and elsewhere.
- The complete narration from the ride.
- Blacklit view into Rainbow Caverns

As you might imagine, this is going to take a while. But I will continue to post updates for those who are interested.

[yensid98]

Wow, that's quite an ambitious plan! It's going to be one amazing track when it's complete. You'll be the envy of all the Disney fanatics (not to mention train afficanados). Keep us updated.

[MasterGracey]

This sounds really neat. Be sure to post photos of your progress!

[FI183]

Damn, you should be a model maker at WDI!!!!! then again, i have no idea how old you are or if you have any degrees(they wont hire if you dont anymore )!

[disneytim]

Hello MicChatters, I'm hoping that some of you may be able to help me out...

I am building a 1/4" scale model of the classic Disneyland attraction Mine Train Through Nature's Wonderland (yes I am a total geek with too much time on my hands). This was an E-ticket attraction in Frontierland, located where Big Thunder Mt. RR is now. There were different versions of this ride over time, but I am interested in the last version that existed from 1960 to 1976.

What I'm looking for specifically is an overhead view that shows the track plan winding its way through Nature's Wonderland and the Painted Desert. However any pictures or memories that any of you may have of the attraction would be greatly appreciated.

I have already been to the Yesterland site and the Disney Phenom site but I still need more info.

Thanks everyone, and I will post pictures of this project as it progresses.

What a great project. Good luck!

Question though: Wasn't the Mine Train a "D" ticket?