Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad provides a great roller coaster ride set within a landscape designed to look like the 197 foot butte of Monument Valley in Utah.  The story of the Thunder Mountain Railroad takes place in Tumbleweed, which is a flooded mine town.  Guests ride the “runaway mine car” through a variety of sites and sounds, including real life antique mining equipment and a dinosaur skeleton embedded in the side of the mountain. 

A multitude of audi-animatronic figures, such as chickens, donkeys, and possums are used to further bring this attraction to life.  Professor Cumulus Isobar the rainmaker is also present.  Smells, such as the scent of sulfur, are incorporated as guests whisk by phosphorescent pools.  Guests also see the red eyes of those who inhabit the caves as they pass by.  Riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at night is a different experience than during the day, as the Magic Kingdom’s twinkling lights provide a spectacular view.

Falling rocks and earthquakes help make this ride a thriller, and contribute to this ride being most enjoyed by teens and adults.  For a greater thrill, the back portion of the roller coaster train is the best choice.  The rough ride lasts about 4 minutes and has a minimum height restriction of 40”.  Parents can choose to use the “switching off” option in order to enjoy this ride.