PHOTOS: Matterhorn Bobsleds in Disneyland Turns 65!
Happy Birthday to one of the most iconic rides in Disneyland–Matterhorn Bobsleds.
This week, the Matterhorn Bobsleds celebrate its 65th anniversary at Disneyland Resort and Disney is sharing some historical photos to kick off the celebration.
Inspired by Switzerland
The idea for the Matterhorn Bobsled started during a 1950s trip to Switzerland. Walt and his wife Lillian enjoyed vacationing in Switzerland, including taking in and exploring the country’s breathtaking landscape, especially the Matterhorn mountain.
Disney
In 1958, Walt was vacationing in Switzerland when he was hit with a flash of inspiration.
The story goes that Walt sent a postcard back home to his Disney Imagineers featuring a picture of the mountain and the words “BUILD THIS” on the back.
Disney
Plans to bring this mountain to California began shortly after Walt’s Switzerland trip. The Disneyland version is built at 147 feet and started with the transformation of Holiday Hill into Snow Hill.
As the project grew, Snow Hill turned into Snow Mountain, and then eventually – Matterhorn mountain.
Disney
History in the Making
Matterhorn Bobsleds opened June 14, 1959 and was the first roller coaster in the world to use a tubular steel track and an electronic dispatch system. The new system allowed multiple cars to be on the track at the same time.
This new technology set the standard for many modern-day roller coasters.
Disney
Walt and his Imagineers wanted guests to enjoy the view of the Matterhorn just as you would view it in Switzerland, so a unique station was created where you wait to board the ride and “take in the sights.”
Disney
Imagineers also created a picturesque tower similar to a tower near Switzerland’s Matterhorn mountain. This is an often-recognized feature of the ride!
The photo below is from the Disney archives and showcases the shields representing the various cantons, or states, in Switzerland. One of many sights to check out while experiencing the ride.
Disney
The opposite side of this building also features alpine-style cutouts, bright colors and motifs found in traditional Swiss embroidery designs.
The attraction is so much fun and great for families! It features swoops in and out of shadowy caves, rocky ledges, snowy chutes, and more before splashing down into an alpine lake.
Disney
As you race through the attraction, keep your eyes open for historical details. Mountaineering supplies and collected treasures from the past are hidden throughout.
There’s even a tribute to Frank Wells — the former President and Chief Operating Officer of The Walt Disney Company.
Disney
And you can’t forget about the Abominable Snowman. This fan-favorite icon was added to the attraction later in 1978.
In 2015, the attraction was part of an area update, so Walt Disney Imagineering worked with an anthropologist to make sure the abominable snowman would look as realistic as possible.
Disney
Be sure to celebrate this attraction’s 65th anniversary. And be sure to follow along with MickeyBlog to stay updated on this and all things Disney.
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Feature Photo/Article Source: Disney Parks
