Expedition Everest, nestled in the Asia section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is a thrilling roller coaster that has captured the hearts of adventure enthusiasts since its inception. But have you ever wondered how fast this ride actually is? Let’s delve into details about the speed, engineering marvels, safety measures, and the overall experience that the ride offers.
Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom reaches a top speed of 50 miles per hour (mph). This makes it one of the fastest roller coasters in Disney World, providing a thrilling and immersive experience for riders.
Speed of Expedition Everest
Expedition Everest reaches a top speed of 50 miles per hour (mph). This high-speed journey through the Himalayas is not just about speed, but also about unexpected twists, turns, and drops, including a high-speed backward section.
Compared to other roller coasters at Disney World, Expedition Everest is among the fastest. For instance, Space Mountain reaches a top speed of 27 mph, while the TRON Lightcycle / Run comes close to 60 mph. The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a maximum speed of 57 mph.
Engineering and Technological Innovations
The impressive speed of Expedition Everest is a result of some groundbreaking engineering and technological innovations. The ride uses a track system by Dutch manufacturer Vekoma, with rails mounted on the outer surface of the ties. This was the first large-scale installation of such a system.
Expedition Everest was the first Disney roller coaster to switch between forward and backward sections during the same ride. To maintain the illusion of a steam-powered train, Disney eliminated the familiar sound of a pawl clickety-clacking over antirollback teeth as the coaster ascends the first hill using a special wheel on the underside of the coaster.
Safety Measures
Safety is paramount in any amusement ride, particularly in high-speed roller coasters like Expedition Everest. Each seat on the ride has its own safety bar that you pull down over your lap, which locks in place once it stops moving. The ride vehicles carry 34 passengers, with two per row, and the seats have tall backs with safety lap bars for each guest.
The Overall Experience
The speed of the ride significantly contributes to the overall experience. The thrilling speed, coupled with the surprise element of switching between forward and backward sections and the 80-foot drop, make Expedition Everest a favorite among thrill-seekers. The dark places and creature effects further enhance the sense of speed and excitement for riders.
History and Development
The ride, officially opened on April 7, 2006, was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s most expensive roller coaster, costing $100 million. The development process involved Disney Imagineers creating a detailed and immersive experience for riders.
In conclusion, Expedition Everest is not just about the speed—it’s about the unique experience it offers. The combination of innovative engineering, thrilling speed, and immersive storytelling create a ride that is truly unforgettable. So, the next time you visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom, don’t miss out on this high-speed adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Expedition Everest ride?
The Expedition Everest ride lasts for approximately 2 minutes and 50 seconds.
What is the minimum height requirement to ride Expedition Everest?
The minimum height requirement for Expedition Everest is 44 inches (112 cm).
Is there a FastPass system for Expedition Everest?
Yes, Expedition Everest is included in the FastPass+ system at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Is Expedition Everest suitable for people with motion sickness?
People with motion sickness may want to avoid Expedition Everest, as it includes high speeds, sudden drops, and backward motion which may trigger unpleasant symptoms.
How many people can ride Expedition Everest at once?
Each ride vehicle on Expedition Everest can accommodate 34 passengers, with two passengers per row.
Is there any age restriction for Expedition Everest?
While there’s no specific age restriction for Expedition Everest, Disney recommends that children under age 7 should ride with an adult.
