How Fast is Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland?

Disneyland is known for its magical atmosphere and thrilling rides, one of the most iconic being the Matterhorn Bobsleds. This roller coaster has been a popular attraction since it opened in 1959, taking riders on an exhilarating journey through a Swiss mountain range. But one question that often comes up is: how fast does the Matterhorn Bobsleds go? In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the speed of this beloved ride and how it contributes to the overall experience.

The Speed of Matterhorn Bobsleds

The Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland can reach a maximum speed of 27 mph (43.5 km/h). While this may not seem incredibly fast compared to some modern roller coasters, it’s important to remember that the Matterhorn Bobsleds was one of the first tubular steel continuous track roller coasters ever constructed. This speed certainly provides plenty of thrills for riders as they navigate the twists and turns of the mountain.

Comparisons with Other Disneyland Attractions

The Matterhorn Bobsleds’ top speed of 27 mph may not make it the fastest ride at Disneyland, but it does offer a unique experience. For instance, Space Mountain reaches a top speed of 35 mph, and the Incredicoaster at Disney California Adventure Park can reach a top speed of 55 mph. However, the Matterhorn Bobsleds is faster than other rides such as Chip ‘n’ Dale’s GADGETcoaster, which reaches 22 mph.

Factors Influencing the Speed of the Matterhorn Bobsleds

The speed of the Matterhorn Bobsleds is influenced by several factors:

1. Weight of the Bobsleds: The more weight in the bobsled, the faster it will go due to increased momentum.
2. Track Design: The ride has two different bobsled runs, each offering a unique experience. The Tomorrowland bobsled run has sharper turns, while the Fantasyland bobsled run is a bit longer.
3. Ride Vehicle: The Matterhorn Bobsleds can accommodate eight guests, which contributes to its speed.
4. Environmental Factors: Although not explicitly stated, factors such as temperature and time of day can influence the speed of a steel roller coaster.
5. Maintenance and Refurbishments: Over the years, the Matterhorn Bobsleds have undergone several refurbishments, which could potentially affect the speed of the ride.

The Thrill Factor: Speed and Experience

The speed of a ride significantly contributes to the overall thrill and experience for park visitors. The velocity of a ride at any given moment, along with the rate at which this velocity changes (acceleration), can create various physical effects on the riders.

The speed of the Matterhorn Bobsleds, combined with the ride’s sharp turns and sudden drops, can create a sensation of flying or falling, which is part of the thrill of a roller coaster ride. This sensation is heightened by the ride’s design, which includes encounters with the abominable snowman and a splashdown at the end of the ride.

Moreover, the psychological aspect of speed also plays a significant role in the overall thrill and experience of the ride. Physical signs of fear such as a pounding heart, faster breathing, and an energy boost caused by the release of glucose (known collectively as the “fight or flight response”) can be triggered by a roller coaster ride. This response can create a thrilling and exhilarating experience for the riders.

In conclusion, the Matterhorn Bobsleds may not be the fastest ride at Disneyland, but its speed, combined with its unique design and thrilling elements, make it one of the most exciting. Whether you’re a roller coaster enthusiast or a casual park-goer, the Matterhorn Bobsleds offers a unique and thrilling experience that’s worth checking out on your next visit to Disneyland.