While Universal Studios is known for their amazing Volcano, The Disney Parks Mountains walked so that Volcano could run honestly!
One of the best parts of going to Disney World is riding on these classic mountain rides:
Space Mountain
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Space Mountain opened at Disney World in 1975 and was inspired by the Matterhorn Bobsled ride at Disneyland. This concept was originally called "Space Port" and was to be a staple piece of the Tomorrowland section. If you notice when you walk through the queue, it's very similar to going through an airport terminal. As you depart from the ride, you are shown possible future vacation destinations you can take. As time went on, the concept was tweaked and Space Mountain was born! While you may feel like you're going 65 MPH, you're really only going max 35! Learn more about the history of Space Mountain in Park Ride History's awesome video below!
Expedition Everest
Often compared to Matterhorn at Disneyland, Expedition Everest is unique for its track switching feature which allows the cars to go backwards and forwards. In 2011, it was recorded as the most expensive roller coaster in the world at $100 million, including sets, construction and six years of planning. It opened in spring 2006 and has been extremely popular ever since. Visitors journey through the village of Serka Zong via train into the Himalayas but warning signs of the infamous Yeti is all around and it's not pleased. My favorite part of the attraction is the queue. Joe Rohde, a famous Disney Imagineer, along with a team traveled to Nepal and the surrounding areas to research the culture , architecture and even the legend of the yeti itself to bring this story to life. They brought back original artifacts found from the base of Everest and authentic items from the places they visited. While the main attraction is the Yeti, it has been in what they call "B Mode" for years now. When it first opened, the Yeti would swoop down and swipe at guests. But due to technical issues, which can't be fixed without closing the ride completely for a long time and opening the mountain to get to the yeti, it's unclear when it can be returned to its "A Mode." But have no fear! Joe himself has stated the Yeti will be fixed someday!
The original in Disneyland was the brainchild of Disney Imagineer, Tony Baxter. It was originally called "Zip a Dee River Run" based on the infamous "Song of the South" film, but strictly the animated parts. It was renamed by CEO at the time, Michael Eisner, to help promote the 1984 film "Splash." The Disney World version opened in October 1992 and is only 1 of 2 Splash Mountain versions in the world to have a lap bar with a total of 68 animatronics total. The anticipated drop at the end sends riders down 50 ft into the briar patch at 40 MPH! The ride takes visitors on a journey with Brer Rabbit as he leaves home to go to the laughing place with two villains, Brer Fox and Brer Bear, tagging him along the way. Its a classic due to the log flume ride vehicle and the catchy songs! Speaking of catchy songs, take a listen to this classic rap song inspired by the ride from Disney!
Big Thunder Mountain
Undercover Tourist
The Disneyland original inspired by the American southwest opened in 1979 but the Disney World version debuted in 1980. While the backstory isn't well known by guests, and my personal favorite is Disneyland Paris's due to its tie in to Phantom Manor, it varies from park to park. Disney World's backstory is that gold is discovered in a town called "Tumbleweed" and overnight it becomes a very popular mining town! Mine trains were put throughout the mountain but unknown to the settlers was the fact that its cursed by Native Americans due to it being a sacred spot to them hat was desecrated. Soon a flash flood hit the town, but the tragedy differs per park and it was abandoned. Later they found the mine cars possessed and running on their own and now they allow visitors to ride them! Tony Baxter, another great Disney Imagineer, headed the project which was delayed a few times due to construction for Space Mountain and Pirates. It's max speed is 35 MPH and there's a comic based on the attraction!
Big Thunder Mountain Comic Book
When visiting the Disney Parks, I would HIGHLY recommend getting a fastpass for each of these attraction, especially if its your first time. Some people who visit frequently like to try the Mountain challenge where they ride all the mountain rides in one day. Its quite easier than doing the 4 parks 1 day challenge.
Which Mountain is your favorite? Find out which one you are most like in our quiz!
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