Big Thunder Mountain, the Island Version
Big Thunder Mountain is a mine-train roller coaster in Frontierland at Disneyland Park. Versions exist at four Disney parks, and the Paris one is laid out differently from all of them: the mountain sits on an island in the middle of the Rivers of the Far West, and the train reaches it through a tunnel under the water. That makes it the longest of the four and, by most accounts, the best.
The island layout, and why it matters
The station is on the shore and the mountain is offshore. You board, drop into a tunnel beneath the river, surface on the island, run the circuit there, and go back under the water to return. The two tunnel passages add length and a change of light that the other versions do not have, and they are the reason this one is usually rated first among the four.
How intense it is
It is a mine train, so the forces come from speed and direction changes rather than drops or inversions. It is the resort's gateway thrill ride: rougher than the dark rides, well short of the launch coaster in Discoveryland. There is a height restriction posted at the entrance.
Where it is and when to ride
Frontierland, in Disneyland Park, so a one-park ticket covers it. The queue builds early and stays heavy because the ride appeals to almost everyone. First thing in the morning is the reliable window; the last hour before closing is the other.
If it is closed
It is a large outdoor coaster and it closes for high winds and for maintenance periods, which can run for months. Check the app on the day rather than planning a whole visit around it.
Big Thunder Mountain on Wikipedia
Frequently asked questions
Is the Paris Big Thunder Mountain different?
Yes. The mountain is on an island in the river and the train reaches it through tunnels under the water, which makes it the longest of the four versions.
Which park is it in?
Disneyland Park, in Frontierland. A one-park ticket covers it.
Is it suitable for children?
It is a mine train rather than a thrill coaster, but there is a height restriction. Check it on the app before queueing.
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