Sixty-five years ago today, Disneyland park introduced guests to the excitement of the Matterhorn Bobsleds—an attraction that continues to captivate adventurers with its exhilarating descent down the icy slopes of its uniquely recreated Swiss mountain. To celebrate this milestone, let’s journey back through the history of this one-of-a-kind ride, as shared by Daps Magic in their latest podcast episode. The Disney Parks Blog offers a deeper dive into the story behind the Matterhorn Bobsleds with nostalgic photos and intriguing captions, which you can explore here. [Link to Disney Parks Blog]
Walt Disney’s trip to Switzerland in the 1950s was more than a getaway; it was the spark of inspiration for this legendary ride. During his visit, Walt, accompanied by his wife Lillian, was mesmerized by the majestic Matterhorn mountain, often hailed as the “jewel of the Swiss Alps.” As the story goes, Walt sent a postcard back to his team with a simple but powerful directive—”BUILD THIS.” The vision soon took shape, transforming the modest Holiday Hill into what would eventually become Disneyland’s Matterhorn.
Opening on June 14, 1959, the Matterhorn Bobsleds was groundbreaking as the very first roller coaster in the world to feature a tubular steel track, revolutionizing the design for future thrill rides. It was also among the key attractions in Disneyland’s first major expansion since its 1955 debut. Alongside the breathtaking views reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, the intricate design included a picturesque clock tower, vibrant shields representing Switzerland’s cantons, and quaint alpine-style cutouts.
For those who’ve braved the ride, the experience is unforgettable. Guests twist and turn through dimly lit caverns, skim icy cliffs, and plunge into a refreshing alpine lake, always keeping an eye out for fascinating details like vintage mountaineering gear and hidden treasures, including a nod to Frank Wells, the beloved former President and COO of The Walt Disney Company.
One of the highlights and fan favorites added in 1978 is the Abominable Snowman. When refreshed in 2015, Imagineers consulted an anthropologist to ensure his appearance remained as lifelike as possible, adding to the ride’s immersive thrill.
Celebrate this summer by tackling the Matterhorn Bobsleds and perhaps catching a glimpse of the Pizza Planet Truck hidden on the mountain during Pixar Fest. What’s your favorite part of this storied attraction? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this story on social media—let’s keep the magic alive! And for those planning their next trip, check out the latest deals [Link to details] to make your Disneyland adventure both magical and budget-friendly.
