Splash Mountain
Opened: October 2, 1992
Location: Frontierland
Extra Magic Hours: Evening
FASTPASS: Yes, and you’ll want one unless riding immediately in the morning
Type: Log flume
Similar To: Unique
Requirements: Must be 40” or taller
Scary Factor: Medium. The “big drop” is clearly visible to all Disney World visitors and may make some guests apprehensive about riding. It’s really not that bad though and if you could handle any of Disney’s other roller coasters or a similar attraction at another theme park then you should be fine. The drop is a little over 50 feet at a 45 degree angle and is a lot more fun than it is uncomfortable or unpleasant. Even people who adamantly “hate” roller coasters enjoy Splash Mountain. I would try to work up the nerve to ride Splash Mountain, even if it looks like the drop is too intense. You’ll be fine.
What to Expect: There is a lot more to Splash Mountain than “just a drop.” The ride is actually about 12 minutes long and follows the story of Br’er Rabbit as he attempts to leave the briar patch in search of his “laughing place.” First, you’ll have to make it through the queue, which is mostly covered but not particularly interesting. Once you make it to the front of the line, you will board the log flume which has four rows of two people, for a total of eight riders per log. If you want to get wet, request the first row. All riders may get a little wet, but people in the front tend to get the most drenched. Once aboard, your flume will take you slowly through a series of scenes featuring more than 100 animatronic characters.
The following contains spoilers:
There are three small drops before the “grand drop” which happens just before the end of the ride. If you’re anxious about the drop then it will probably be difficult to pay attention to the story. Do your best to take it all in because the story is really one of the best examples of Disney genius.
How to Stay Dry and Not Lose Anything: You won’t get anywhere near as wet as you would on Kali River Rapids at the Animal Kingdom, but riders sitting in the front row may still get a healthy dose of water. I would recommend placing purses, cameras, phone, and other electronics in a plastic bag of some kind. A shopping bag would do the trick and you can request one from any shop if you need one. I would also recommend removing any hats or loose glasses because they have a tendency to fly away.
When To Go: Ride first thing in the morning, during parades or fireworks, in the last hour the Park is open, or in the last hour of evening Extra Magic Hours.
Expect to Wait: Splash Mountain is one of the most popular rides at Disney World and has the lines to match. Expect waits to exceed 60 minutes by noon and be in the 90-120+ minute range in the afternoon, depending on season and crowds. Although exact waits will vary, be aware that Splash Mountain will have one of the three longest waits at the Magic Kingdom.
Length: 12 minutes
Rating: 10/10
Commentary: Splash Mountain is one of Disney’s most prolific attractions and a must-do for all visitors tall enough to ride. The drop may be off-putting to some, but it’s not nearly as “bad” as it looks. While you may see some people swearing off the Tea Cups or Space Mountain after riding, it’s rare to hear about anyone who doesn’t want to ride Splash Mountain again immediately after disembarking. I would recommend it, even if you don’t like roller coasters or thrill rides because there’s so much more to it than the drop. Do your best to get here immediately after the Park opens or get a FASTPASS as soon as possible.