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Matterhorn Bobsleds

Disneyland Park · Fantasyland

Overview

Matterhorn Bobsleds sends bobsled-style vehicles racing through a scale replica of the Swiss Matterhorn mountain, twisting through icy caverns, past waterfalls, and a startling encounter with the mountain's resident Abominable Snowman before a fast, bumpy descent. Its tight, unpredictable turns produce a rougher, more jarring ride than most modern steel coasters, which longtime fans consider part of its charm.

ParksLog Verdict

A genuine engineering landmark disguised as a modest-looking coaster — its historical importance to the entire coaster industry is easy to overlook while riding. Rougher than most modern coasters, but that roughness is part of what makes it feel authentically 1959. Essential for any first visit.

About this experience

Historic steel roller coaster racing through icy mountain caverns with sharp turns and encounters with an abominable yeti.

Best For

  • Coaster history enthusiasts
  • Thrill-seekers who enjoy a rougher, more physical ride
  • Guests who want an iconic Disneyland landmark experience

Tips

  • The ride is noticeably rougher than modern coasters — riders with back or neck sensitivity should consider skipping it.
  • Night rides feel meaningfully different thanks to the mountain's exterior lighting.
  • Two separate tracks run simultaneously, so wait times can vary between the two queues.

Details

Must DoMin height 107 cmThrill High~3 minLightning Lane Multi Pass

Type ride

Min height 107 cm

Approximate duration ~3 min

Thrill High

Good for kids Better for older guests

Lightning Lane Lightning Lane Multi Pass

Single Rider Line Not available

Motion sickness field.motionSicknessLevel.moderate

Location Outdoor

Opened 1959

Attraction characteristics
Roller CoasterOutdoorThrillDark

History

Matterhorn Bobsleds opened in 1959 as the world's first tubular steel roller coaster, a design breakthrough that fundamentally changed coaster engineering worldwide and paved the way for smoother, more versatile track designs across the industry.

Closure history

  • Jul 20, 2026 - Jul 23, 2026

Fun Facts

  • It opened in 1959 as the world's first tubular steel roller coaster, a design that reshaped coaster engineering industry-wide.
  • The mountain includes a resident animatronic Abominable Snowman that appears mid-ride.
  • Two separate bobsled tracks run through the mountain simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Matterhorn Bobsleds take?
The experience runs about 3 minutes. Budget extra time for the queue, any pre-show, and boarding — on busy days the full process can take considerably longer.
Is Matterhorn Bobsleds good for young children?
Matterhorn Bobsleds is not marked as kid-friendly on ParksLog. Check the height requirement and thrill level before visiting with young children.
How intense is Matterhorn Bobsleds?
ParksLog rates this as high intensity — significant speed, drops, or motion effects. Not recommended for guests with motion sensitivity or relevant health conditions. Use your own judgement based on personal comfort and any health advisories posted at the entrance.
Does Matterhorn Bobsleds operate in the rain?
Matterhorn Bobsleds operates outdoors. It may be affected by weather conditions — check with the park on the day of your visit during rain or storms.
Should I prioritize Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland Park?
Yes — ParksLog rates Matterhorn Bobsleds as a Must Do at Disneyland Park. It's among the park's signature experiences and should be near the top of your itinerary. Arrive early or use Lightning Lane to minimize wait time.
Does Matterhorn Bobsleds have Lightning Lane?
Yes — Matterhorn Bobsleds is available through Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass to book a return time for this and other eligible attractions through the My Disney Experience app.
When did Matterhorn Bobsleds open?
Matterhorn Bobsleds opened at Disneyland Park in 1959.
Does Matterhorn Bobsleds have a single rider line?
Matterhorn Bobsleds does not have a single rider line. All guests join the standby queue or use Lightning Lane.

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