Big Thunder Mountain Roller Coaster Ride

This is a four-minute roller coaster ride up, down, and around Thunder Mountain, the Disney World version of a gold rush mountain located in Frontierland in the Magic Kingdom. Along the way riders may spot a flooded mining town, an earthquake, a dinosaur skeleton and a large assortment of desert animals. While this is a roller coaster, it is built with the Disney standard for family fun. There are a lot of exciting turns and little dips, but nothing as intense as with what is found at a Six Flags or another amusement parks. With Big Thunder Mountain the ride is more about the experience than it is about a scare factor making it popular with all but the youngest crowd.

There is a 40" height requirement for this ride.

Age: Attraction Review:

ages 2-4: Children who are over the height requirement may still find the ride a little too intense, or be scared by the lengthy periods in the dark with loud noises.iences.

ages 5-10: If your kids have never been on a roller coaster before this is not a bad ride to introduce them into the genre. The beginning which is quite dark and features loud sounds is very intimidating for children.

ages 11-15: Most pre-teens and teens rank this attraction as one of their favorites in the Magic Kingdom.

ages 16-adult: Most adults rank this attraction as one of their favorites in the Magic Kingdom.

senior citizens: Many seniors dislike the roller coaster type experience of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Disney Tip

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a very popular attraction and generates long lines. To avoid the crowds, either visit the first hour the park is open or in the last two hours the park is open. Many find this ride fun after dark and for the best experience the seats in the back are a better option.

Disney Facts

Until Expedition Everest opened in Disney's Animal Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was the tallest "mountain" in Florida at 197 feet.

The track length is 2,780 feet and the ride reaches speeds of 35 m.p.h

Look carefully at some of the names used throughout the attraction for some wacky puns. For example, one of the crates at the entrance is from the Lytum and Hyde company.

Plan Your Disney World Adventure, and Experience Magic

With so many exciting attractions, rides, and character experiences, Disney World is truly a magical place that offers something for everyone. To make the most of your visit, check out our Walt Disney World Resort page, where you’ll find Deals on Disney tickets, affordable Disney World vacation packages, and planning tools. Do not forget to explore our Top Rated Orlando Hotels, and Spacious Vacation Homes near the parks, to complete your trip!

Whether you’re exploring the rides of the park or meeting the characters, Disney World promises memories and magic to last a lifetime.