The Haunted Shack

The Haunted Shack was one of the icons of Knott's Berry Farm before various factors led to its destruction after Halloween Haunt 2000. Below are pictures I took during its final summer, and a few pictures from an old Knott's souvenir book. Please excuse the quality of the shots as digital photography was not what it is today.

The Haunted Shack opened at Knott's in 1954. Everyday until its closure in 2000, guests came to the old shack to hear stories of "strange goings on" as told by Slanty Sam.

Your guide then led you through the shack, where you could see two people change height right before your eyes...

...a chair mysteriously sticks to the wall, without the use of magnets or nails...

...clocks running sideways...

...a chair that's nearly impossible to escape...

...water flowing uphill, and a portrait of Slanty Sam.

This is one of the last exterior pictures of the Haunted Shack. It was taken in the Fall of 2000 while dressed as Dead Man's Warf for Halloween Haunt. As soon as the ghouls left Ghost Town for the season, destruction of the Shack began.

Two pictures of the Haunted Shack from an old Knott's
guide book.

The back of the Boothill Mesa in 2000. The Haunted Shack was isolated behind this hill.

The Calico Mine Ride

The Calico Mine Ride is a true Knott's classic. Designed by Bud Hurlbut, the Calico Mine Ride has been impressing guests since 1960. Meandering trains snake through its impressive facade, and roaring waterfalls. Comparisons can easily be made to Disneyland's former Mine Train Through Nature's Wonderland attraction.


A look inside the Calico Mine's beautiful stalactite caverns.

This visual masterpiece of a show scene includes one of the most memorable pieces of music in any theme park. The famous pipe organ tune that is played here is an unforgettable part of this favorite attraction!

Miners hard at work inside the Calico Glory Hole.

Looking out over the Timber Mountain Log Ride from the upper rails of the Calico Mine.