Disney Prepares Massive Expedition Everest Coaster Overhaul

Walt Disney World is planning to shut down its Expedition Everest Coaster at Animal Kingdom for a substantial refurbishment. The update will address the famous Yeti Animatronic, which has been operating without its original movement since the ride's opening in 2006.

The enormous Animatronic stands about 25 feet tall and has roughly 1,000 square feet of fur and skin. Its original movements allowed it to move vertically and horizontally, creating an illusion that the creature was reaching toward passing riders.

However, within months of the ride's opening, the Yeti's movement became severely limited. Disney eventually began using strobe lighting around the stationary figure to simulate motion, earning it the nickname 'Disco Yeti.'

The refurbishment is expected to take place after Tropical Americas opens, which could be as late as 2028. The exact timing and length of the closure have not been confirmed by Disney.