Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a mine train roller coaster located in Frontierland at several Disney theme parks worldwide. The ride is themed to the American Southwest during the gold rush era and is designed to resemble a runaway mine train.

History

The concept for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was developed by Tony Baxter, a Walt Disney Imagineering designer, in the late 1970s. The ride was first opened at Disneyland in Anaheim, California on September 2, 1979. It was later introduced to other Disney parks, including Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Florida, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris.

The ride replaced the Mine Train Through Nature's Wonderland, which had been a staple of Disneyland since 1960. The new attraction was part of a broader effort to modernize the park and introduce more thrilling rides.

Design and Theme

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is designed to resemble a mining operation in the American Southwest. The ride's backstory involves a mining company that discovers gold in the mountain, leading to a "gold rush". However, the mountain is cursed, and the trains are said to run on their own without engineers.

The ride's design is inspired by the landscapes of Monument Valley, Utah. The rock formations are made of fiberglass and concrete, painted to resemble the red sandstone of the region. The ride features several animatronic animals, including goats, donkeys, and chickens, to enhance the theme.

Ride Experience

The ride begins with a slow climb up a lift hill, followed by a series of drops, turns, and tunnels. The trains reach speeds of up to 35 mph and navigate through a series of themed environments, including a bat cave, a flooded town, and a dynamite-laden tunnel.

The ride is known for its "wild" and "bumpy" experience, simulating the feeling of a runaway mine train. It is suitable for families, with a height requirement of 40 inches.

Cultural Impact

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has become one of the most iconic attractions at Disney parks. It is often cited as a favorite among guests and has inspired merchandise, media appearances, and even a planned film adaptation.

The ride's popularity has led to its inclusion in various Disney video games and promotional materials. It is also a frequent subject of Disney trivia and fan discussions.

See Also

• Frontierland
• Walt Disney Imagineering
• Disneyland
• Magic Kingdom

References

• Smith, Dave. Disney A to Z: The Official Encyclopedia. Disney Editions, 2016.
• Surrell, Jason. The Disney Mountains: Imagineering at Its Peak. Disney Editions, 2007.

External Links

• Official Disneyland Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Page