Disney World Magic Kingdom Attractions - Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:49:07 EST

The ride is a relatively mild indoor/outdoor roller coaster based on the concept of a runaway train careening through an abandoned mine complex. In contrast to Space Mountain, where the tracks are largely hidden from view, the thrills are meant to come from the perceived instability of the mine and its threats to collapse. Speeds can reach 24-30 miles per hour so the centrifugal force as you round the turns will pull you from one side to the next.

Ride Experience:
Big Thunder Mountain is a classic "wild mouse" type roller coaster. I prefer to sit more towards the middle to back of the train; it seems a lot faster and whips through the turns and dips. Not that the front isn't a good seat, I just don't like waiting for the rest of the train to catch up before you take off. If you think you have had enough, wait and come back at night. This ride takes on a completely different feel at night.

What Disney Says:
"Hop on this rollicking mine train through an Old West mining town for a rip-roarin', rootin'-tootin' thrill-a-minute ride. If you're 'mining' for a good time consider the 'prospects' as you're warned: 'Hang on to your hats and glasses 'cause this here's the wildest ride in the wilderness.'"
Source: Disney World
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/attractionDetail?id=BigThunderMountainRailroadAttractionPage

Notes, Tips and/or Facts:
See if you can spot the following residents of Tumbleweed: chickens, donkeys, possums, a goat, a longjohn-clad resident spinning through the flood in a bathtub and a rainmaker whose name is Professor Cumulus Isobar.

Author's Comments:
"Hang onto your hats and glasses, folks, ‘cause this here's the wildest ride in the wilderness!" If Big Thunder Mountain has a long line, grab a FASTPASS and hit Splash Mountain, or vice versa. Loose articles, hats, and glasses should be removed and secured.

Each of the six trains has an engine and five cars. For the "wildest ride" request a seat in the back rows. For tamer rides, request a seat in the front of the train.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is beautiful at night; be sure to ride after dark if you have the chance.

Persons in wheelchairs should continue past the entrance, go into the exit of the attraction, and look for a Cast Member for boarding instructions. You will need to transfer from your wheelchair to a train car.

Matt Holley

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Disney World Magic Kingdom Attractions - Big Thunder Mountain Railroad