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Free Traveling Guides » States » Florida » Walt Disney World Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, located at the far end of Frontier land in the Magic Kingdom of the Walt Disney World Resort, is often considered to be one of the wildest rides in the theme park. Established on September 23, 1980, this fantastically themed roller-coaster features a number of spine-chilling turns and dips through mountains, caverns, floods, and avalanches evocative of the Old West. The guest queue area leads the guests into the headquarters of the Big Thunder Mining Co., where they are invited to board the converted ore cars for the journey. This enthralling ride into the wilderness lasts for three and a half minutes.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is themed after a Southwestern landscape, indicative of the spectacular wind swept features of the Arizona Monument Valley. The scenery that the riders encounter during the ride features magnificent caves, grottos, big horned sheep, a waterfall, dinosaur bones, sulphur pools, and a spiral butte. The maximum speed reached by the ride is 30 mph. Unlike Splash Mountain, the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad features no serious drops. However, the ride offers 3 exciting dips. The main butte of the ride is nearly 100 feet (30 m) above ground and approximately 197.6 ft (60.23 m) above sea level. On the ride, the riders can also enjoy the music of the Old West with some of the most popular songs, including the Big Rock Candy Mountain, Red River Valley, Blue Tail Fly, and Oh My Darling Clementine.
The attraction features a total of 6 trains: U. R. Courageous, U. B. Bold, I. B. Hearty, I. M. Brave, and I. M. Featless. Each of these 6 trains features 5 cars and an engine. Those who wish to experience the wildest ride should request a seat in the back rows of the train. Besides, there are as many as 20 Audio animatronics, including donkeys, chickens, a goat, possums, a rainmaker whose name is Professor Cumulus Isobar, and a long john-clad resident spinning through the flood, throughout the attraction. Authentic mining equipment, purchased at various auctions throughout Southwest, can also be seen around this 2.5-acre (1.0 hectare) attraction.
The attraction looks wonderful at night and if possible, one should ride after dark. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a FASTPASS attraction and this pass can be used during peak hours. The minimum height requirement for this ride is 40 inches (101.6 cm). Pecos Bill’s, an elegant restaurant located nearby, offers excellent counter service food. Big Thunder Mountain merchandise can be obtained at the Briar Patch, located near Splash Mountain.
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