Attractions: Expedition Everest

Expedition Everest is probably the number one attraction at the Animal Kingdom. This not-so-tranquil train ride through the Himalayas opened in 2006 and is the only Disney coaster that goes both backward and forward. It sits on the edge of the Asia area of the park, near the bridge to Dinoland.

Attraction Quick Facts:

• The best time to ride is either first thing in the morning or during the parade in the afternoon, to avoid the longer lines. This line does move pretty quickly though, even at peak times, so the wait isn’t too terrible.
• FASTPASS is available.
• You must be 44 inches tall to ride. (The smaller kids might be scared by the Yeti monster anyway.)
• This ride is really smooth, with no loops or crazy corkscrew maneuvers. There’s a pouch onboard to store all your belongings. Don’t worry, they’ll be perfectly safe there. I even ride it with my professional camera, and it comes through without a scratch. You might want to hang on tight to the sunglasses though… just in case.
• You’ll feel the effects of some serious G-forces when the ride goes backwards, so be prepared for that if you’re not used to that kind of stuff. It kinda took me by surprise the first time, but it is super cool!

The story of your crazy train adventure starts with a legend you’ve heard since you were a kid. The Yeti monster guards the Forbidden Mountain in the Himalayas. For years locals have feared and respected the creature, while outsiders have dared to enter his domain in hopes of proving his existence.

As you make your way down the waiting line, you’ll pass through a Yeti museum of sorts. You’ll see many ancient relics and artifacts devoted to the legend, plus more modern pieces like photographs and a giant mold of a footprint. The shredded remains of a yeti-hunters’ campsite is also something interesting to see.

Once you’re onboard the train, the ride seems calm enough at first. But as you near the summit, the Yeti starts to make his presence known. It all starts with a bit of missing track, and just goes wild from there. Before you know it, you’re trying to outrun an angry snow monster and make off the mountain in one piece.

*Imagination Photog Photo Tip! If there’s someone in your party who’s not riding, hand them the camera and send them over to the ride viewing area to snap a picture as you coming screaming down the mountain. Just to the right of the ride exit there is a small landing area just down a couple of steps. That’s the best spot for ride photos. Here’s a shot my dad took from there.

Me, my husband Brandon, and my mom are on the 5th and 6th rows from the back.

This is probably my favorite rollercoaster at Disney World. It’s a moderate thrill as far as coasters go, but it is the smoothest ride I’ve ever been on. Even my husband, who doesn’t like rollercoasters, loves this one! Again, it’s one of those I ride at least twice on every visit.

Here’s Disney’s sneak peek of Expedition Everest!