Why Disneyland Paris’ Big Thunder Mountain is the Best in the World
Big Thunder Mountain, known as the “wildest ride in the wilderness,” is a must-do attraction at Disneyland Paris. While versions of this iconic ride can be found at other Disney parks around the world, the Paris iteration has earned a reputation as the best. Located in Frontierland, this version stands out not only for its thrilling track layout but also for how seamlessly it ties into the overarching narrative of the land. Here’s why Big Thunder Mountain at Disneyland Paris is a must-ride and how it compares to other versions.
Unique Setting: Thunder Mesa Island
One of the most unique aspects of Disneyland Paris’ Big Thunder Mountain is its location on an island in the middle of the Rivers of the Far West. Unlike the versions at Walt Disney World or Disneyland California, where the ride is set in the middle of Frontierland, the Paris version transports you to Thunder Mesa, an island shrouded in mystery and gold-mining lore. The ride begins on the mainland, but after boarding the train, you immediately plunge into a tunnel beneath the river, adding to the sense of adventure and isolation as you speed towards the island.
The journey through the dark tunnel is exhilarating and completely unique to Disneyland Paris. Once you emerge, the vast expanse of the island provides plenty of space for the track to wind through canyons, caves, and abandoned mining structures, offering stunning views of Frontierland and the river. This island setting also means that the entire experience feels more immersive and secluded than at other parks.
A Thrilling and Extended Ride
One of the standout features of Disneyland Paris’ Big Thunder Mountain is that it offers a longer and more intense experience than its counterparts. The ride duration is approximately 4 minutes, making it one of the lengthiest roller coasters in any Disney park. With a maximum speed of 67 km/h (42 mph) and a track that extends for nearly 1.5 kilometres, you’ll feel every twist, turn, and drop in an exhilarating way.
The Paris version of Big Thunder Mountain is widely regarded as the fastest and wildest. It includes more sharp turns, sudden drops, and even unexpected splashes, keeping you on edge from start to finish. For those looking for thrills without the high-intensity levels of other Disney coasters, such as Space Mountain or Indiana Jones, Big Thunder Mountain strikes the perfect balance of excitement and accessibility.
Rich Theming and Immersive Storyline
Disneyland Paris excels at storytelling, and Big Thunder Mountain is no exception. The attraction is deeply tied to the overarching Frontierland storyline of Thunder Mesa, a mining town gone awry due to the greed of its settlers. The mountain itself is haunted by supernatural forces, believed to be responsible for the mysterious disappearance of miners and settlers alike.
As you board the train, you become part of this narrative, racing through the mine shafts and abandoned tunnels in search of gold. The intricate details of the queue and the ride itself immerse you in this story, from the dilapidated mining equipment to the eerie, abandoned town of Thunder Mesa that you zip through during the ride.
This strong narrative connection makes Disneyland Paris’ Big Thunder Mountain more than just a thrilling coaster—it’s an integral part of the park’s lore. The Parisian version ties directly into the story of Phantom Manor, located just across the river, where the bride of the ill-fated gold prospector of Thunder Mesa resides. This interconnected storyline adds depth to the experience and rewards guests who explore Frontierland beyond just the rides.
Ride at Night for a Completely Different Experience
One of the best tips for experiencing Big Thunder Mountain at Disneyland Paris is to ride it at night. The track is illuminated in soft, eerie lighting, and the ride through the dark caverns and around the glowing mountain takes on a completely different atmosphere after sunset. The lights of Frontierland twinkle in the distance, and the cool evening air adds a new layer of excitement to the ride. This is something unique to Disneyland Paris, where night-time rides are known for their enhanced atmosphere.
Queue and Wait Times
The popularity of Big Thunder Mountain means that wait times can be significant, especially during peak hours. Expect waits of up to 60-90 minutes during the busiest times of the day. To get the best experience, try to ride early in the morning or late in the evening when queues are shorter. Alternatively, use the Disney Premier Access (formerly FastPass) system, which allows you to reserve a spot and skip the general queue for an additional fee.
Comparing to Other Disney Parks
While Big Thunder Mountain exists in multiple parks around the world, the Paris version stands out as the most thrilling and well-executed. Here’s how it compares to other parks:
- Disneyland California: The original Big Thunder Mountain is shorter and less intense than the Paris version. It features a similar storyline but lacks the unique island setting and the additional drops and speed of the Paris ride.
- Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World: The Florida version is also shorter and less immersive. The track is smoother, but it doesn’t offer the same twists and turns or the dramatic ride under the river. It’s a great experience, but it doesn’t have the same “wow” factor.
- Tokyo Disneyland: The Tokyo version is similar to the California version, with a few cultural differences in theming but ultimately offering a comparable ride experience.
Kid-Friendly Fun
One of the best things about Big Thunder Mountain is that it’s thrilling without being too intense for younger visitors. The height requirement is 1.02 metres, making it accessible for most children. While the drops and speed are exciting, the theming and narrative elements keep the ride fun and engaging, rather than terrifying. Many younger guests find it exhilarating without being too scary, making it a great first coaster for kids.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Do Attraction
Big Thunder Mountain at Disneyland Paris is more than just a roller coaster—it’s an integral part of the Frontierland experience and one of the best examples of Disney’s ability to combine thrills with storytelling. With its unique island setting, extended track length, and immersive theming, it truly stands out as the best version of the ride anywhere in the world. Whether you’re visiting the park for the first time or you’re a seasoned Disney fan, this attraction should be at the top of your must-do list.
Be sure to experience it both during the day and at night for two very different (but equally incredible) adventures through the Wild West!
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