Expedition EverestRoller coasterMinimum height to ride: 44 inches Last edited by Robert Niles 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. [Update this description | Read previous versions] Photos:
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Reader reviews of Expedition Everest
Still a great theme and enjoyable roller coaster. The best bit is when you travel backwards in the dark, however although you can still see the yeti the ride is definitely missing something now that it doesn't swipe for the carriage. - Emily G Even better than I expected! - Ryan L 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
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