Disney Employee Hikes to Mount Matterhorn’s Peak with Mickey and Goofy for the 300th Time
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Disneyland is one of the places where dreams and lives come together. Fairy tales come to life, and it is definitely one of the most entertaining places on earth. Here, one man’s journey stands apart from everyone else. Jimmie Payton, a symbol of dedication and adventure, has made his mark over the last 50 years of his life in Disneyland.
Beginning his career as an atmosphere performer and stage production dancer, he has not only completed 50 years in Disneyland; but he has also achieved the remarkable feat of scaling Disney’s iconic Matterhorn mountain more than 300 times!
Conquering the Disneyland Icon
Usually, when you think of Disneyland, your mind automatically shoots to the characters, the rides, and the castle. However, the Matterhorn Bobsleds have remained overlooked over the years. The 147-foot-tall wonder is a 1/100th scale replica of its 14700-foot-tall inspiration. Naturally, it is an immense source of pride for not only the park but Payton as well.
Payton’s journey up the Matterhorn began when Disneyland sought mountain climbers for the attraction. As a seasoned gym rat, rock climber, and backpacker, Payton was a natural fit for the task. Incidentally, he was also the first person to scale the Matterhorn, along with Disney’s beloved Mickey Mouse.
The challenge of climbing this faux mountain, covered in painted snow, can’t be understated. Especially during the blistering summers, the slack of real-rock traction made it slippery and dangerous. However, this didn’t deter Payton. For him, the reward of reaching the peak was worth every effort.
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The view from the peak cannot be understated as well. From the peak, one can see the submarine lagoon, the teacups, Storybook Land, and even the iconic sky buckets. Not to mention, he had the unique privilege of playing basketball on a tiny half-court tucked inside the peak.
The Grand Finale
Despite his unfettering love, his last ascent came in 2005. During Disneyland’s 50-year anniversary celebration, he planted a flag with the number “50” on the peak. Payton’s career at Disneyland was anything but ordinary, encompassing 50 different roles in his 50-year tenure. However, for him, it was the 300 climbs of the Matterhorn that mattered the most.
His career not only allowed him to make countless magical memories but also led to a lasting love story. He met his wife, Reina, a Disneyland custodian, during a chance encounter while she was cleaning a parade float.
Their happily ever after is a testament to the enchanting stories that both begin and thrive within the magical realm of Disneyland.
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Smrutisnat Jena