Maleficent's Dark Ride Takes Shape at Magic Kingdom

Disney's Magic Kingdom is brewing a new roller coaster themed after Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty. The attraction will be part of Villains Land, which was first announced two years ago at the D23 Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase. The coaster will weave through Maleficent's Forbidden Mountain and Fortress in an 'exhilarating high thrill ride.'

The Imagineers are experimenting with new roller coaster elements that have never been attempted before. While they haven't confirmed whether this includes inversions, twisted airtime moments, or a drop track like Hagrid's at Universal Islands of Adventure, the coaster will likely be more thrilling than Disney's usual family-friendly rides.

The train for Maleficent will hold 36 passengers in six cars with three rows each. This would tie it as the highest seated coaster train at any Disney park worldwide. The longer trains will allow for wider turns and higher speeds, making this attraction more similar to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Expedition Everest.

The Magic Kingdom's new Villains Land is still in development, but with a focus on immersive storytelling and thrilling experiences, it's clear that Maleficent will be a standout attraction when it finally opens.