Everything You Need to Know About Disneyland's Splash Mountain

Embark on a magical journey as we explore the world of Disneyland's Splash Mountain. This iconic attraction has captivated the hearts of Disney fans for decades with its thrilling drops, unforgettable characters, and enchanting story. In this article, we'll delve into the fascinating history, unique design, and exciting trivia surrounding Splash Mountain, and even catch a glimpse of its future transformation. So, buckle up and prepare to make a splash as we uncover everything you need to know about this beloved Disney adventure.

The Origins of Splash Mountain

The history of Splash Mountain is a fascinating tale that goes beyond the confines of the ride itself. The attraction finds its roots in the 1946 Disney film "Song of the South," which introduced audiences to characters like Br'er Rabbit, Br'er Fox, and Br'er Bear. These characters were adapted from the Uncle Remus tales by Joel Chandler Harris.

Imagineer Tony Baxter, the creative genius behind Splash Mountain, recognized the potential of these iconic characters and their adventures. As he sought to develop a new attraction for Disneyland's then-underpopulated Bear Country, he envisioned a log flume ride that would incorporate the narrative and charm of the Br'er Rabbit stories. Baxter's concept for Splash Mountain was born during a drive home from work when he was stuck in traffic, and he quickly sketched his idea on a napkin to capture the moment.

The creation of Splash Mountain was no small feat, as it required an investment of over $75 million and more than three years of construction. The end result was a state-of-the-art attraction that seamlessly blended the thrills of a log flume ride with the immersive storytelling that Disney is known for. Since its opening on July 17, 1989, Splash Mountain has become a beloved fixture at Disneyland, enchanting generations of park visitors with its captivating storyline, memorable music, and heart-pounding drop.

Over the years, Splash Mountain has seen a number of updates and enhancements that have further enriched the guest experience. These improvements have included upgraded animatronics, enhanced show scenes, and refurbishments to the ride's exterior. Despite these changes, the core spirit of Splash Mountain has remained steadfast, ensuring that the attraction continues to delight and inspire millions of parkgoers each year.

The Ultimate Log Flume Experience

Splash Mountain is more than just a log flume ride; it's a masterful blend of storytelling, animatronics, and thrilling water ride elements. The attraction features a 52.5-foot drop, which sends guests hurtling down at an exhilarating 40 mph. This breathtaking descent is just one of the ride's many highlights, as it also boasts a captivating storyline that unfolds throughout the journey.

As guests make their way along the winding flume, they encounter a variety of scenes that bring the tale of Br'er Rabbit to life. From the Laughing Place to the daring plunge into the Briar Patch, each moment is expertly crafted to create an unforgettable experience. Splash Mountain's seamless fusion of story and thrill makes it a standout attraction for all ages.

The Characters and Storyline

At the heart of Splash Mountain are its colorful and endearing characters, led by the mischievous Br'er Rabbit. The ride follows his adventures as he outsmarts his foes, Br'er Fox and Br'er Bear, while searching for his Laughing Place. Along the way, guests are introduced to a host of other critters, including the wise old owl, the helpful hummingbirds, and the comical possums.

The attraction features over 100 audio-animatronics, bringing these captivating characters to life with remarkable realism. As the storyline unfolds, guests are treated to a memorable soundtrack of classic Disney tunes, such as "How Do You Do?", "Everybody's Got a Laughing Place," and the iconic "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah." The combination of engaging characters, immersive scenes, and unforgettable music makes for a truly magical experience.

Exciting Splash Mountain Trivia

For Disney enthusiasts, there's no shortage of fascinating trivia surrounding Splash Mountain. Did you know the attraction's name was inspired by the 1984 film "Splash," starring Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah? The original working title was "Zip-a-Dee River Run," but then-Disney CEO Michael Eisner suggested the change to promote the movie.

Another interesting tidbit is that many of the animatronics used in Splash Mountain were repurposed from the now-defunct "America Sings" attraction. This creative recycling allowed Disney to save on production costs while also giving new life to the retired figures. Additionally, Splash Mountain held the record for the longest flume ride in the world, with a total length of 2,640 feet and a ride time of over nine minutes.

The Future of Splash Mountain

Disneyland has announced plans to reimagine Splash Mountain, transforming it into a brand-new experience inspired by "The Princess and the Frog." This change comes as part of Disney's ongoing commitment to inclusivity and diverse storytelling, with the new attraction set to feature characters from the modern Disney classic. Splash Mountain will be shutting down in May 2023, marking the end of the iconic ride that has become synonymous with Disneyland. It might even be worth a trip on down to Anaheim to say farewell to the old fav and get one last ride.

As we've journeyed through the enchanting world of Splash Mountain, we've discovered its rich history, captivating story, and thrilling design. This iconic attraction has not only entertained millions of visitors but has also become an integral part of Disneyland's magic. As we look forward to the upcoming reimagining of the ride, there's no doubt that the spirit of adventure and wonder will continue to thrive within its new incarnation. So, whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, keep an eye out for the exciting changes coming to Splash Mountain and get ready to make a splash in a whole new world.