Let’s be clear: The Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland is a classic. It’s a rite-of-passage for all who grew up in Southern California – the commanding peak of the original Disneyland, and the first tubular-steel track designed roller coaster in the world. It is a marvel to behold, as well as experience. The Swiss theming is fantastic, and wraps itself a full 360-degrees around the mountain, meaning it gives great views from literally any angle. The roller coaster ride itself is little more than a glorified wild-mouse style roller coaster, but the theming here is what takes this experience to the next level. The tight caverns and dark tunnels produce great “near miss” sensations, and make the coaster feel much faster than it actually is. The fact that two completely different tracks race down the mountain – at some points alongside each other, but at other times veering off on their own course – adds to the fun. The special effects here are a mix of both inspiring (the Frank Wells Expedition tribute is fantastic) as well as breathtaking (racing alongside multiple giant waterfalls). The Abominable Snowman – nicknamed “Harold” by various cast members – has been plussed over the years, and today is one of the rare Disney encounters that is legitimately scary, as he lunges and roars at passing vehicles in a way that feels far too close for comfort. Is the ride rough? Absolutely. We often compare it to a prolonged automobile accident. And the seating can be extremely tight – especially in the front row of each vehicle. But we’d also argue that altering these components of the ride would result in a much less thrilling experience. It’s that out-of-control sensation in a tiny little sled that makes the Matterhorn feel so genuinely wild. And while it’s not in the top spot of our list, it’s still one of the greatest Disney Coasters on the planet.

It’s hard to do this one justice in words. Towering over Disney’s Animal Kingdom park, Expedition Everest was for many years the single most expensive roller coaster ever built. And from the moment guests enter the queue, it’s clear to understand why. Here, the line winds through a variety of structures that lay out the myth of the Yeti, from rare artifacts to the unnerving relics from previous expeditions. It’s an adventure all on its own, and if one takes the time, can truly transport guests to another place where the legend of the Yeti is real, and this is more than just a ride. The vehicles are full-on roller coaster trains, “powered” by a large engine attached as the final vehicle which – when working properly – emits steam and sound that adds to the experience. The journey itself takes it’s time building up the anticipation – from a spin through the gorgeous foliage outside the mountain, to a lift up the side and through a small temple structure with multiple warnings about turning around. Finally, at its peak, the true roller coaster experience begins, with multiple surprises including a backwards section, and several encounters with the Yeti itself. Which brings us to the elephant (Yeti?) in the room. This massive animatronic has not functioned properly since the ride’s opening year and today is a static figure that uses a strobe light when vehicles pass by. There are a multitude of reasons given for this, but whether it be time, cost, or logistics, the Yeti is not what the Yeti should be. Still, it does little to detract from the overall experience of rushing over, around, and through this massive structure. Expedition Everest is one of the (literal) pinnacles of Imagineering – an enormous, thrilling, heavily themed roller coaster attraction that checks all the right boxes, and stands proudly as the greatest Disney Snow Coaster in the world.