Pixie Diane - Matterhorn at Disney undergoes repainting

Did you know that the Matterhorn Mountain at Disneyland has not been completely repainted since the ride opened in 1959?

It was interesting to find out that back in 1959, the structure was constructed and painted on the ground, then lifted and placed on top.  Due to the irregular shape of the Mountain,  it took twenty (20) levels of scaffolding to reach the top in 2012.

What is your guess for the number of gallons needed to paint the Matterhorn Mountain?  900

Paint Technique for Mountain:

First coat was primer, then a grey base coat, then a warm grey and finally a tan color paint.  A Splatter of paint in several colors  to make the cement resemble granite.  A Glaze was later applied followed with highlighting moss, stains and weathering.

Paint Technique for Snow:

For best picture taking, Disney used two shades of white for the snow.  The rock surface received a clear coat making it look like it was wet from melting snow.

The sparkle of the snow comes from about 2,000 pounds of glass beads.

As I mentioned before in an earlier post, the Matterhorn is replacing it's legendary bobsleds.  The new bobsleds have a retro feel (similar to the original bobsleds in the late 1950's).  Each car seats three passengers, one ride to a seat versus the double seat.

Not sure, how welcomed the new seating arrangement will be received for families with younger children wishing to sit with Mom, Dad or Grandparent.  But, this new change will eventually be accepted, as guests will adapt to the new space.