Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is home to many exciting attractions, but none perhaps as thrilling as the Yeti Ride. Officially known as “Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain”, this roller coaster takes guests on a high-speed train adventure through the Himalayas, where they encounter the legendary Yeti, also known as the Abominable Snowman.
The Yeti Ride, officially known as “Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain”, is located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. More specifically, you can find this thrilling roller coaster in the Asia section of the park, across from the Rivers of Light amphitheater.
Location of the Yeti Ride
Expedition Everest is located in the Asia section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, across from the Rivers of Light amphitheater. The attraction is set in the quiet mountain village of Serka Zong, where natives honor and respect the legendary guardian of the mountain, the Yeti.
History and Background of the Yeti Ride
Unveiled on April 7, 2006, Expedition Everest is themed around a dangerous journey to the base camp of Mount Everest. Along the way, guests encounter unexpected perils, including the legendary Yeti, which locals believe to be the protector of the mountain. The ride features a massive, 25-foot-tall Yeti animatronic, which was the largest and most advanced audio-animatronics figure ever created by Disney at the time.
Designed by Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde, who also led the design of Disney’s Animal Kingdom as a whole, Expedition Everest is a testament to Disney’s expertise in creating immersive and thrilling theme park experiences.
The Yeti Ride Experience
From the moment you step into the queue, Expedition Everest immerses you in the Himalayan culture. The queue takes guests through the Himalayan Escapes tour company, a pagoda-style shrine, a general store, and the Yeti Museum, which showcases artifacts and evidence of the Yeti’s existence.
Once on the ride, prepare for a high-speed adventure through the Himalayas. The roller coaster reaches speeds of up to 50 mph, taking guests forward and backward through the mountain. Expect sudden drops, dark caverns, and a close encounter with the Yeti itself.
Height and Age Requirements for the Yeti Ride
To ride Expedition Everest, guests must be at least 44 inches (112 cm) tall. Children under the age of 7 must be accompanied by a person aged 14 years or older.
Tips for Riding Expedition Everest
- Visit early or late: To avoid long queues, try visiting the ride earlier in the morning or later in the evening when crowds are thinner.
- Utilize the Single Rider Line: If you don’t mind being separated from your group, consider using the Single Rider line to reduce your wait time.
- Secure your belongings: The ride reaches speeds of up to 50 mph, so make sure to secure your belongings and hold on tight during the ride.
- Enjoy the queue: The queue for Expedition Everest is one of the best at Disney World, featuring a museum dedicated to the Yeti and other interesting details. If you don’t have a FastPass, take the time to enjoy the queue and its immersive theming.
Guest Reviews of the Yeti Ride
Guests have left various reviews of Expedition Everest, many of which praise the ride’s thrilling elements, immersive theming, and impressive Yeti animatronic. Some guests have experienced the ride without the Yeti, which led to a less thrilling experience. However, the majority of reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many guests citing Expedition Everest as one of their favorite rides at Disney World.
In conclusion, Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain, or the Yeti Ride, is a must-visit attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This thrilling roller coaster offers an immersive and exciting experience that combines authentic Himalayan theming, a high-speed roller coaster, and a close encounter with the legendary Yeti.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Expedition Everest ride?
The Expedition Everest ride lasts approximately 3 minutes and 44 seconds.
Does Expedition Everest operate in inclement weather?
For safety reasons, Expedition Everest may close during severe weather, especially if there is lightning in the area. It’s always best to check with a Cast Member or the My Disney Experience app for real-time updates.
Is Expedition Everest suitable for people with motion sickness?
Expedition Everest is a high-speed roller coaster that includes sudden drops, backward motion, and dark areas. Individuals prone to motion sickness may want to consider this before deciding to ride.
Is there a FastPass+ available for Expedition Everest?
Yes, FastPass+ is typically available for Expedition Everest, allowing guests to book a specific ride time in advance and skip the regular queue. However, availability may vary, and it’s always best to check the current FastPass+ offerings on the My Disney Experience app.
Are there any restrictions for pregnant women?
Yes, due to the nature of the ride, Expedition Everest is not recommended for expectant mothers.
Is the ride accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, guests using a wheelchair or Electric Conveyance Vehicle (ECV) must be able to transfer to the ride vehicle by themselves or by assisted by members of their party.
How many people can fit in one ride vehicle?
Each ride vehicle on Expedition Everest can accommodate up to 34 riders, with six riders per row.
