Expedition Everest

About Expedition Everest

Expedition Everest is a roller coaster through Disney's version of the Himalayan mountains. From base to peak, guests will reach a max speed of 50 mph, moving forwards--and yes, even backwards--all while being pursued by the fierce guardian of the mountain, the Yeti.

At 199 feet (a height matched only by The Twilight Zone's Tower of Terror), Disney's newest E-ticket rises above the tree line, easily spotted from the DAK parking lot. Expedition Everest's coaster design uses a Vekoma track that was originally used for smaller roller coasters, with the rails on the outside of the track ties rather than on the inside. The trains carry 34 passengers and are designed to look like old steam-engine tea trains, with the mock engine in the rear of the coaster. A rig built under the loading area makes it appear the train is steam powered when it comes to a stop at the loading dock.

The Imagineers have done a nice job recreating the Asian countryside, from the plants and trees to the waterfalls. An ominous feeling grows as the train ascends to the mountain peak, passing through a shrine dedication to the mountain's guardian. Needless to say, something goes wrong on your mountain tour as the train careens through cold fog, the screams of its passengers mixing with ominous howling sounds from the beast.

Everest's ride is smooth--probably too smooth for avid coaster riders, but the thrill level should be acceptable for all ages. As with most Disney attractions, what looks to be a terrifying experience is actually a pretty tame ride, but "tame" hardly comes to mind when the train takes its sharp, 80 foot plunge and begins twisting and turning. Expedition Everest has no inversions and uses a simple lap bar system to keep its riders in place. The train seats two people per row, but each guest has his or her own lap bar to ensure a snug fit. Riders must be at least 44" tall and there are the standard ride restrictions for coasters. -- Last edited by Robert Niles

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Photos from Expedition Everest

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Readers' Opinions

Not quite as good as it looks.....! - Mark Moore

I rode this for the first time on my last trip to Orlando in mid-December 2007. I was able to ride this coaster several times the first day, including several times at night, by utilizing the "Extra Magic Hours." I think it's better at night, though I enjoyed everything about the ride in the day, as well. - Anthony O'Neal

where would this park be without this ride, what a thrilling and truly ashtonishingly themed coaster, my only concern is the yeti is it fixed yet? - Rob Chandler

Disney got its groove back with Everest, perhaps the best themed coaster ride in the United States. Try the single rider line for quick access, but don't be too bummed if you have to wait -- the queue sets up the story nicely and includes loads of details to occupy your attention while you wait. - Robert Niles

Disney World's top coaster. Exquisite attention to detail here in the themeing. - William Clark

This was my daughter's favorite ride in all of Orlando. We rode four times today and she's still smiling :) Our entire family enjoyed. - Mike Burnette

One of the best rides Disney has ever created. The mountain is picturesque and the ride is thrilling. As you go up the first big hill you get a wonderful view of the Disney World resort if you look backwards. Speaking of backwards, the part where the train goes backwards is awesome. The rest of the ride is wonderful and is a must ride. The real star of this attraction is the theming. From the village and queing area to the ride itself the theming really puts you in the Himalayas. The encounter with the Yeti is also a highlight of the ride. Everest develops and maintains long lines throughout the day. Definitely get a fastpass or ride in the last hour or so the park is open. Whatever you do, don't miss out on this adventure. - Manny Barron

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