Spinny River Nightmare

Grizzly River Run is hard on me. I can't ride it without getting sick. Why does it have to spin so much? It's such a cool ride and I can't do it! I think I'll try it the next time we go-the question is if I should throw up on the ride, or after...or both?

Grizzly River Run at Disney California Adventure is the ultimate white-water rafting adventure that sends you careening down rapids, plunging over waterfalls, and spinning through wild river currents—all while trying (and usually failing) to stay dry. This exhilarating ride combines the thrill of an untamed mountain river with the rustic beauty of California’s natural wilderness. Oh, and did I mention the massive grizzly bear carved into the side of the mountain? Yeah, you’re about to raft through his domain. Good luck!

As you approach Grizzly River Run, the towering Grizzly Peak looms above you, with its majestic bear-shaped summit looking both welcoming and mildly menacing. The sound of rushing water and the excited screams of fellow rafters create an atmosphere of eager anticipation—everyone’s pumped, but also secretly wondering just how soaked they’re going to get. The answer? Very.

Look how wet I got after riding Grizzly River Run-also, you can see the ride in the background.  Also, is that Trev, also soaked through?

Once you board your circular, 8-person raft, you’re immediately swept into the action. The ride begins with a scenic float through lush forests and rocky outcroppings, giving you a few moments to take in the natural beauty and serenity of the surroundings. But don’t get too comfortable—this is the calm before the storm, and that storm comes in the form of roaring rapids, unexpected drops, and plenty of splashes.

As your raft starts to pick up speed, you’ll quickly realize that Grizzly River Run isn’t just a gentle river ride. The powerful rapids toss your raft around like a rubber duck in a hurricane, spinning you in all directions as you navigate the twists and turns of the river. The unpredictability is half the fun—one moment you’re gliding along smoothly, and the next you’re plunging over a steep drop with water crashing all around you.

Speaking of drops, Grizzly River Run has a couple of doozies. The highlight is the big plunge, where your raft careens down a steep waterfall, sending water spraying everywhere and making sure that even the driest riders are now fully baptized by the river gods. And just when you think you’re safe, the final drop comes out of nowhere to remind you that dry clothes are a thing of the past.

The ride’s layout ensures that no two journeys down the river are exactly the same. Because of the circular design of the raft, everyone gets their turn facing the rapids head-on. You might spend part of the ride laughing at your friend who just got drenched by a rogue wave, only to find yourself directly in the path of the next one. The unpredictability makes it all the more hilarious—there’s no escaping the water, and that’s what makes it so much fun.

The theming of Grizzly River Run is top-notch, with the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the charm of California’s natural parks infused into every part of the ride. From the towering trees to the rocky cliffs, the setting feels immersive and authentic, like you’re truly on an outdoor adventure—minus the actual danger, of course.

By the time your raft finally glides back into the loading dock, you’ll be a mix of exhilarated and soaked, with that telltale look of someone who just survived (and loved) a wild river run. Grizzly River Run is the perfect combination of thrills, laughs, and water-based chaos, making it a must-ride for anyone who’s up for an adventure and doesn’t mind getting a little—or a lot—wet.

So, if you’re ready to brave the rapids, take on the mighty Grizzly Peak, and embrace the inevitable soaking, grab a raft and hang on tight. Grizzly River Run will leave you drenched, smiling, and ready to do it all over again—because sometimes, the best adventures are the ones where you just let the river take you where it will. And maybe pack a poncho, just in case.

Here's more of the long story:

The Shuttle Saga

After parking their cars in the Toy Story parking area, the families gathered at the shuttle stop, eager to get to the park’s front entrance.

"Here comes our ride!" Lincoln shouted, pointing to the bright red shuttle bus approaching.

The families boarded the shuttle, finding seats and holding onto the poles and straps. The excitement was palpable as the bus started moving.

Shuttle Shenanigans

Just as everyone was settling in, the shuttle jolted and came to an unexpected stop. The driver fiddled with the controls, and the bus remained stubbornly still.

"What's happening?" Gage asked, looking worried.

"Are we going to miss Disneyland?" Reagan asked, her voice filled with concern.

"Don't worry, kids," Steve said, trying to sound reassuring. "We’ll get there. It’s all part of the adventure."

Kevin decided to lighten the mood. "Maybe the shuttle needs a break after carrying all of us," he joked, poking his dad, Scot, in the belly.

"Hey, I’m not that heavy," Scot protested, laughing. "Maybe it’s because we had too many waffles."

The shuttle driver turned around and smiled at the worried passengers. "Sorry folks, just a minor glitch. We’ll be moving again in no time."

"Maybe the bus wants to stay here and be part of the Toy Story parking lot forever," Brandon said, grinning.