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Take a deep dive into Disney’s own Mount Everest.
Credit: Disney
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Nestled within Disney’s Animal Kingdom lies Expedition Everest, a roller coaster that invites daring enthusiasts to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Himalayas. This attraction, which opened in 2006 after six years of meticulous planning and construction, offers guests a thrilling experience that combines speed, suspense, and storytelling. Riders are ushered into a rich narrative as they prepare to traverse the impressive peak, showcasing not only the thrilling nature of the ride but also the artistry behind it.
The essence of Expedition Everest is deeply rooted in the culture and architecture of the Himalayas. Disney Imagineers traveled to Nepal to immerse themselves in the local traditions, ultimately bringing back over 1,000 authentic props and pieces of decor to enhance the experience. The queue leading up to the ride allows guests to soak in the rich backstory, with intricate details reminiscent of a village nestled at the foot of the majestic mountain. From wooden carvings to prayer flags, visitors are greeted by visual storytelling that captivates the imagination long before the train departs.
A highlight of the ride is the fabled Yeti, a legendary creature that adds an element of mystery and thrill to the expedition. Signs and shrines depicting the Yeti can be found throughout the queue, increasing tension and excitement. As riders board the train and rise through the mountain, they are tantalizingly close to a terrifying encounter with this animatronic beast, setting the stage for heart-pounding moments ahead.
Credit: Norm Lanier, Flickr
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Engineering Marvels of Expedition Everest
The construction of Expedition Everest is quite an engineering feat, especially considering the attraction is the tallest of all Disney “mountain” rides. Standing at nearly 200 feet, the mountain’s structure required innovative construction techniques. Disney utilized a specialized scaffolding system built directly into the design, allowing for seamless sculpting and painting before the scaffolding was removed. This careful planning preserved the mountain’s intricate theming, making the ride stand out among amusement park attractions.
Expedition Everest features a remarkable track layout that distinguishes it from other roller coasters. The coaster’s design allows for both forward and backward movement, adding to the excitement. With track switches weighing an astounding 200,000 pounds, the ride smoothly transitions directions, giving guests a truly unique roller coaster experience. Riders can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour, excitingly propelling them through the peaks and valleys of the Forbidden Mountain.
The mountain itself is a monumental feat of engineering, composed of both structural steel and an intricate façade that mimics the majestic storytelling of the Himalayas. The three components of the ride—the coaster track, mountain structure, and Yeti platform—were built to remain separate, a testament to the precision of Disney’s Imagineers. With over 5,000 tons of steel and thousands of pieces of rebar used in its construction, the architectural design showcases a remarkable balance between functionality and artistic detail.
Credit: Disney
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The Intense Ride Experience
The intense ride experience is arguably the main draw for Expedition Everest. Riders will find themselves careening through tunnels, scaling steep slopes, and encountering unexpected drops, including an 80-foot plunge that creates a rush of exhilaration. Add in the chance to engage with the Yeti, and the ride promises an experience unlike any other at Walt Disney World.
The dynamics of the ride engage both body and mind, with riders feeling multiple g-forces as the train twists and turns through the mountain landscape. The combination of sudden drops, rapid ascents, and unexpected surprises keeps riders on the edge of their seats as they navigate the mystique of the Forbidden Mountain.
As the first Disney ride to feature a backward track segment, Expedition Everest breaks barriers in theme park attractions. This unique design allows for an added layer of suspense, as riders are thrust back into the darkness of the mountain after the initial forward climb. It heightens the thrill and surprise, an exhilarating feature that is perhaps one of the most thrilling aspects of the ride.
Credit: Disney
The Yeti, Or Lack Thereof
Disney Imagineers remain optimistic about the future of the Yeti. Efforts continue to address the underlying structural concerns without compromising the ride’s integrity.
Take a trip abaord a runaway train as we explore the secrets hiding within Walt Disney World’s Expedition Everest roller coaster.
While visitors may have to wait to see the Yeti return to its former glory of movement, the legacy of this famed creature continues to ignite excitement among guests eager to experience a piece of Disney’s innovative storytelling and magic.
Expedition Everest remains a beloved attraction in Disney World, drawing thrill-seekers and families alike into a world of adventure, culture, and breathtaking engineering. Whether navigating its awe-inspiring track or catching a glimpse of the Yeti, the ride offers an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of exploration and wonder.
