The Runaway Mine Train opened at Alton Towers in 1992 as part of the new Katanga Canyon area, costing £3 million to install. Unlike most roller coasters, the ride is powered by electricity rather than gravity and features no lift hill. Although it features a relatively short circuit, it usually travels around it at least twice during each ride.

The most memorable part of the ride is when it passes through a tunnel, bringing it alongside the Congo River Rapids. This usually results in frantic waving and shouts from passengers on both rides.