Expedition Everest is a highlight of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, offering thrill-seekers an adrenaline-fueled journey through the Himalayas. This article will explore everything you need to know about this iconic roller coaster, from its location within the park to its history, unique design, ride experience, and much more.
Expedition Everest is located in the Asia section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The ride is situated across from the Rivers of Light amphitheater. To reach it, you enter Animal Kingdom, follow the walkways to the right, pass the Tree of Life, and continue towards the back of the park. The ride will be on your right as you reach the Asia section.
Where is Expedition Everest Located?
Expedition Everest is situated in the Asia section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The ride is located across from the Rivers of Light amphitheater. To reach Expedition Everest, enter Animal Kingdom, follow the walkways to the right, pass the Tree of Life, and continue towards the back of the park. The ride will be on your right as you reach the Asia section.
The History and Inspiration Behind Expedition Everest
Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain is a steel roller coaster that opened on April 7, 2006. The ride was inspired by Disneyland’s Matterhorn, with the aim to create a bigger and more advanced version of the original ride. The design of Expedition Everest was based on the rocky peaks of the northwest face of Mount Everest, as well as geological elements found in Tibet and Nepal.
Unique Design and Structure
Expedition Everest stands out for its unique design and structure. It features three independent structures: the mountain façade, the Yeti audio-animatronic, and the roller coaster, all reaching ground level but not touching each other. The ride stands at 199.5 feet, making it the tallest attraction at Walt Disney World resort. The attraction also uses a track system by Dutch manufacturer Vekoma, where the rails are mounted on the outer surface of the ties, rather than on the inner surface.
The Ride Experience
The ride experience begins with a journey through the Himalayas on a speeding train. As you ascend the mountain, you’ll encounter broken tracks, which leads to the train suddenly going backward through dark tunnels. The ride lasts about 3 minutes in total and is a thrilling experience, without intense drops or inversions, making it more accessible for riders who may be hesitant about extreme roller coasters.
Nearby Attractions
Near Expedition Everest, you can find several other attractions such as Kali River Rapids, Maharajah Jungle Trek, Tree of Life, The Boneyard, TriceraTop Spin, DINOSAUR, and Na’vi River Journey. Additionally, there are various shops, dining options, and entertainment offerings in the Asia section of the park.
Rules and Restrictions
Visitors to Expedition Everest must be at least 44 inches (112 cm) tall to ride. Guests using wheelchairs, motorized scooters, or ECVs must transfer to the ride vehicle, and service animals are not permitted. Children under the age of 7 must be accompanied by someone at least 14 years old.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Experience
To make the most of your Expedition Everest experience, consider riding in the front row for the best views and thrills, use the Single Rider Line to reduce your wait time, arrive early to avoid long wait times, take in the details of the queue’s decor, and enjoy the themed queue.
In conclusion, Expedition Everest is a must-visit attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Its unique design, thrilling ride experience, and immersive theming make it a standout among the park’s offerings. Whether you’re a roller coaster enthusiast or a fan of immersive storytelling, Expedition Everest is sure to deliver an unforgettable adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the Expedition Everest ride?
The Expedition Everest ride lasts approximately 3 minutes.
What are the height requirements for Expedition Everest?
Riders must be at least 44 inches (112 cm) tall to ride Expedition Everest.
Is Expedition Everest accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, but guests using wheelchairs, motorized scooters, or ECVs must transfer to the ride vehicle.
Are service animals allowed on Expedition Everest?
No, service animals are not permitted on the Expedition Everest ride.
What is the best time to visit Expedition Everest to avoid long queues?
It is recommended to arrive early in the day to avoid long wait times for Expedition Everest.
What other attractions are near Expedition Everest?
Nearby attractions include Kali River Rapids, Maharajah Jungle Trek, Tree of Life, The Boneyard, TriceraTop Spin, DINOSAUR, and Na’vi River Journey.
Are there dining options near Expedition Everest?
Yes, there are various dining options in the Asia section of the park, where Expedition Everest is located.
What is the Single Rider Line at Expedition Everest?
The Single Rider Line is a queue for individuals who are willing to ride alone. This line often moves faster than the regular queue, reducing wait time.
