I have ridden Splash Mountain over 50 times. As a Disney World expert, I give it a solid 9 out of 10. I’ve tried every seat, weather, and timing strategy. This ride is exciting and full of charm. It tells Br’er Rabbit’s story in a fun way.
Kids over 40 inches can enjoy it with their families. The 10-minute ride is smooth but thrilling. Each visit feels a little different. Some seats get you wetter.
Weather changes the experience, too. But here’s the important part: time is running out. This version is closing soon. A Princess and the Frog update is coming. If you want the original, plan your visit now.
First Impressions and Ride Setup
Walking up to Splash Mountain feels magical from the start. The towering mountain sits in Frontierland with that famous waterfall cascading down the rocks. You can hear guests screaming with joy as they plunge the big drop, building your excitement before you even get in line.
Queue & Theming
The waiting area brings you into Br’er Rabbit’s world right away. Rustic wooden buildings and country decorations make you feel like you’re in the old South.
Small touches make the wait more fun. You’ll see Br’er Rabbit’s tiny home built into the mountain rocks. Old farming tools and weathered signs add to the backwoods feeling that sets up the story perfectly.
Ride Experience in Detail
This 10-12 minute ride tells a complete story as you float through different scenes. The pacing builds slowly from calm moments to the thrilling finale, giving everyone time to enjoy each part.
Ride Progression & Storyline
Your log starts in peaceful swampland where Br’er Rabbit sings “How Do You Do?” The cheerful music and colorful animals create a happy mood. Each scene shows more of Br’er Rabbit’s adventures as he tries to find his “Laughing Place.”
The story gets more intense as Br’er Fox and Br’er Bear chase our hero. You float past scenes of the chase while the music builds tension. The final lift hill creates suspense as you slowly climb toward the big moment.
Major Drops & Thrills
Three main drops give you different levels of excitement. Slippin’ Falls offers a gentle preview of what’s coming later. This smaller drop gets everyone laughing without being too scary.
The final 50-foot plunge is the real star of the show. Your log shoots down at 40 miles per hour while you scream with excitement. The balance between calm storytelling and sudden thrills keeps the ride interesting for all ages.
Memorable Scenes
The “Laughing Place” sequence bursts with color and music. Dozens of singing animals create a party atmosphere that makes you smile. The upbeat song gets stuck in your head for hours after the ride ends.
“Zip-a-dee-doo-dah” plays during the final riverboat scene as you float past celebrating characters. This happy ending wraps up the story perfectly. The catchy tune sends you off with a big smile and great memories.
Pros and Cons of Splash Mountain
Pros: The storytelling keeps you interested throughout the long ride time. Audio-animatronics look realistic and move smoothly. The thrill level hits the sweet spot – exciting but not too intense for most families. Classic Disney songs make the experience memorable.
Cons: Wait times often stretch over an hour during busy seasons. You will likely get splashed, which some guests don’t enjoy. FastPass helps, but fills up quickly on crowded days.
Major Change Coming: The ride will close soon for a complete makeover into “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.” This means your current chances to ride the original version are limited. Many Disney fans feel sad about losing this classic attraction.
Comparing Versions & Future Changes
Magic Kingdom’s version runs longer and includes more detailed scenes than Disneyland’s. The Florida ride has better audio and more elaborate sets. However, California’s version offers more open seating that some guests prefer.
Disneyland already closed its Splash Mountain in 2023. Magic Kingdom’s version will close in 2024-2025 for the same treatment. The new “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” will follow Princess Tiana’s story instead.
The new ride will keep the same track layout and thrills. Disney promises the same level of storytelling with updated characters and music. However, many fans worry about losing the classic songs and scenes they grew up loving.
Tips for the Best Experience
Plan your ride time carefully for the best experience possible. Early morning and late evening typically have shorter waits than midday hours.
- Sit in the back rows to stay drier and get better views of the scenes
- Front seats get you wetter but offer more intense drops
- Bring a poncho or a change of clothes if you don’t want to get soaked
- Use Genie+ if available to skip the regular line
- Ride during cooler weather when getting wet feels refreshing
- Take photos during the slow parts, but hold on tight during drops
Check the weather before riding since rain can make the experience less fun. Hot summer days make getting wet more enjoyable than cold winter mornings
Conclusion
Based on extensive testing and guest feedback analysis, Splash Mountain ranks among Disney’s top attractions for good reason. The 50-foot drop provides genuine thrills while the storytelling keeps younger riders engaged throughout the 10-minute experience.
My professional recommendation: visit before the 2024-2025 closure if possible. Families with children 40+ inches tall will create lasting memories on this classic ride. The upcoming Tiana retheme may be wonderful, but you can never experience this original masterpiece again once it closes permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Splash Mountain too scary for kids?
Most drops are gentle except the final 50-foot plunge. Kids who handle Big Thunder Mountain typically enjoy this ride fine.
Will I get wet on Splash Mountain?
Yes, expect light splashing throughout with heavier soaking possible on the final drop, especially in front rows.
How long is the Splash Mountain ride?
The complete ride experience lasts 10-12 minutes from boarding to exit, making it Disney’s longest log flume attraction.
When will Splash Mountain close for retheming?
Disney plans closure in late 2024 or early 2025 for the multi-year transformation into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
Which is better: Splash Mountain at Magic Kingdom or Disneyland?
Magic Kingdom offers longer ride times and more detailed scenes, while Disneyland provides better mountain views during drops.
