Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Is it worth it?

Yes, for almost everyone who meets the height. This is the classic step-up coaster for kids who've outgrown the gentle rides but aren't ready for Incredicoaster across the Esplanade. Adults who've ridden it a dozen times still come back, especially after dark.

The standout: the blasting-area finale, where the train picks up speed past a goat with dynamite in its mouth. The catch: it's a rattly ride. If you have back or neck issues, or you get motion sickness from jostling more than from speed, think twice. Thrill-seekers who want big drops or inversions should save their energy for Incredicoaster.

About Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is Disneyland's runaway mine train coaster, tucked into the red-rock mountain in Frontierland at Disneyland Park. You race through canyons, caverns and a dynamite-packed mining town on two chain lifts. It's a family-friendly thrill: bumpy and fast-feeling, with sharp turns and no loops or drops big enough to scare most people off.

Insider tips

• Sit in the back row for the biggest kick. It gives you the strongest sense of speed, especially going into the final dip.
• Try the goat trick. After the second chain lift you'll slow down past a "DANGER! Blasting Area Ahead" sign, then pass a goat holding dynamite in its mouth. Keep your eyes on that goat as the train drops and swings into the turn. Your inner ear reads the G-forces differently, and the moment feels noticeably faster.
• Ride at least once after dark. Lighting comes on at night, and the dynamite-fuse effects look brighter and sharper. Plenty of guests say it feels faster in the dark too. It's almost a different ride.
• Ride once by day, once by night. In daylight you get the scenery. At night you get the drama. If your schedule only fits one, go at night.
• Lightning Lane: as of November 2026, Big Thunder is part of Lightning Lane Multi Pass. It's one entry per day, and you make your first selection after you enter the park. If you're staying at a Disney hotel, it's an eligible ride for the one-time Multi Pass entry that comes with your stay.
• Check status before you walk over. This ride has had long refurbishments, and some reopening dates have shifted. Look at the Disneyland app for live status and the current standby wait before you head to Frontierland.

Who can ride

Minimum height: 40 in (102 cm).

The intensity is moderate. It's a bumpy, twisty coaster with quick bursts of speed, no loops and a lap restraint rather than an over-the-head harness. It whips you side to side more than it drops you, so riders sensitive to jostling may feel it more than speed-averse ones. Most kids who meet the height do fine. Little ones may still be unsettled by the dark cavern sections, the rumbling and the dynamite effects, so tell them about the goat and the "explosions" beforehand.

Nearby

• Mark Twain Riverboat — steps away
• Disneyland Band at Frontierland — steps away
• Storytelling at Royal Theatre — about 1 min walk
• Stage Door Café — about 1 min walk
• River Belle Terrace — about 1 min walk
• Tiki Juice Bar — about 1 min walk

Quick answers

Is there a height requirement for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad?

Yes. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland Park has a minimum height of 40 inches (102 cm).

Does Big Thunder Mountain Railroad have Lightning Lane?

Yes. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is part of Disneyland Resort's Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Lightning Lane offerings can change, so check the Disneyland app on the day.

Is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad worth it?

Yes, for almost everyone who meets the height. This is the classic step-up coaster for kids who've outgrown the gentle rides but aren't ready for Incredicoaster across the Esplanade.