Magic Kingdom - Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Opened: November 15, 1980
Ride length: 3 minutes, 25 seconds

Overview/History:

In the midst of landscape designed to resemble Monument Valley sits the 197' butte that is the centerpiece of the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Set during the gold rush days in the flooded mine town of Tumbleweed, this runaway mine car roller coaster features 20 Audio-animatronic figures including donkeys, chickens, possums, and the rainmaker himself, Professor Cumulus Isobar.

The authenticity is evident in the antique mining equipment found around the attraction and the smell of sulfur as you pass the phosphorescent pools and see the red eyes of the cave's inhabitants. Riders will also encounter falling rocks and an earthquake. The ride is geared more towards adults and teens and a height restriction of 40" is in effect. Parents may use the "switching off" option. Just under 4 minutes in length, riders will find themselves tossed side to side in the car.

Thrill seekers will prefer riding in the back of the train as it is more exciting than in the front. You really have to pay attention or you may miss the great scenery and attention paid to detail like the skeleton of the dinosaur built into the mountain. This is one of the Magic Kingdom's major attractions and lineups can be quite lengthy.

Be prepared: Queues wind through an old windowless clapboard building and the heat can be quite stifling during the hot summer months.

Fastpass: Yes

Handicapped Accessibility: Wheelchair guests must be able to transfer from their wheelchairs into the train in order to ride.

Tip: Riding at night gives you a whole new experience as you fly by the twinkling lights of the Magic Kingdom.