Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a popular roller coaster attraction located in Frontierland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom theme park in Walt Disney World Resort, Florida. The attraction takes guests on a thrilling ride through an abandoned mining town in the American Old West.
The ride features a 3-minute journey on a runaway mine train that races through a series of twists, turns, drops, and tunnels. Along the way, guests will encounter animatronic figures, special effects, and other surprises, all designed to create a fun and immersive experience.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is one of the most popular attractions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, and is suitable for most riders over 40 inches tall. It is a favorite among families and thrill-seekers alike, and is known for its high-speed thrills, engaging storyline, and immersive theming.
Ride Backstory:
Barnabas T. Bullion is the founder and president of the Big Thunder Mining Company. The longtime mining magnate comes from a powerful East Coast family and considers gold to be his very birthright by virtue of his oddly appropriate name; in fact, he considers the ultimate gold strike to be his destiny. And that is why he is having so much trouble with Big Thunder Mountain. According to superstitious locals, Big Thunder Mountain is very protective of the gold it holds within, and the unfortunate soul who attempts to mine its riches is destined to fail. And so far that prophecy is coming to pass. The mine has been plagued by mysterious forces and natural disasters ever since. And yet the Big Thunder Mining Co. is still in operation. In fact, Bullion is discovering new veins of gold and digging new shafts every day, offering a closer look at the Big Thunder mining operation than ever before. But a word to the wise for anyone attempting to visit the mountain: watch out for runaway trains. (source)
At a Glance
- Disney Resort: Walt Disney World Resort
- Disney Park: Magic Kingdom Park Info News and Attractions
- Park Area: Magic Kingdom Frontierland
- Attraction Type: Disney Rides
- Official Page
- Year Opened: 1980
- Replaced: Nothing
- Location on Map
Helpful Reviews
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad | Disney World News:
- Big Thunder Mountain Closing for Multi-Year Refurbishment, Will Reopen in 2026 With “New Magic”, October 14, 2024
- Disney Files Permit for Major Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment, June 15, 2024
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney World Set for Major Overhaul, May 7, 2024
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closing for refurbishment in January 2024 at Walt Disney World, December 13, 2023
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom To Close for Refurbishment on February 14, December 8, 2021
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