Handy Andy

Before it became Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, it was the Mine Train through Nature’s Wonderland - sort of a dry version of the Jungle River Cruise. The conductor rattled off jokes as the train slowly passed geysers, teetering rock formations and barrel cacti. The tepid ride was replaced by a western-themed roller coaster (running in the opposite direction) when I was in high school. Just a few feet from the exit is the Big Thunder Ranch Barbecue and petting zoo, where you can dine on ribs and beans and meet some very friendly goats. For a time you could catch a performance of Billy Hill and the Hillbillies here. Today you’d have to look for them under a different name at Knott’s Berry Farm. Soon you’ll have to look elsewhere for ribs and beans, too. The barbecue and the goats leave January 10 to make way for Star Wars. At least we get to keep the rollercoaster.