Saddle up for a rip-roaring adventure through the Wild West on Big Thunder Mountain, one of Disneyland Paris’ most beloved coasters. Set in the cursed mining town of Thunder Mesa, this high-speed runaway train ride is packed with dynamite drops, rattling turns, and wild canyon escapes. Uniquely built on an island in the middle of the Rivers of the Far West, it’s the only version of the ride in the world with this layout, making it a must-do exclusive at Disneyland Paris.

Quick overview

Big Thunder Mountain roller coaster at Disneyland Paris, part of a 3-day itinerary.

Big Thunder Mountain Disneyland Paris

Location: Frontierland, Disneyland Park
Type of ride: Outdoor mine train roller coaster
Duration: Approx. 4 minutes
Height requirement: 1.02 m
Accessibility: Must transfer from wheelchair
Premier Access: Available
Single rider: Not available

What to expect?

Board your train at the Big Thunder Mining Company and prepare for a wild journey through cursed caves, rickety bridges, explosive tunnels, and steep ravines. With no loops or inversions, this ride strikes the perfect balance between family-friendly thrills and old-school coaster excitement. You'll zoom past geysers, skeletons, and abandoned mining equipment as the story of Thunder Mesa unfolds with every twist and turn.

Why you should ride Big Thunder Mountain?

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad ride at Disneyland Paris during evening.

Big Thunder Mountain is more than just a roller coaster; it’s a themed adventure perfect for both families and thrill-seekers. It’s ideal for guests who want fast-paced excitement without extreme drops, and the Paris-exclusive island layout offers a unique ride path you won’t find anywhere else. It’s also a great stepping stone for kids looking to graduate from dark rides to coasters.

Hold on tight and race through the Wild West—Big Thunder Mountain is the wildest ride in the wilderness!

Book your Disneyland Paris tickets now

Trivia

Opened in 1992 with the park, it's one of the original attractions
The ride is set on an island, accessible only by underwater tunnels, a first for Disney
Shares a connected storyline with Phantom Manor, located just across the river
Known for its detailed rockwork, inspired by Bryce Canyon in Utah

Know before you go: Big Thunder Mountain, Disneyland Paris

Practical information

Height requirement: Minimum 1.02 m
Health considerations: Not recommended for guests with back, neck, or heart issues
Accessibility: Must transfer from wheelchair
Safety restrictions: Secure lap bars; loose items must be stored
Ride duration: Approx. 4 minutes
Best times to ride: Within the first hour after park opening or just before closing

Tips

Wait times peak during mid-afternoon. Use Premier Access to skip long lines
The queue offers scenic views of the ride and Frontierland
Nearby eats include Cowboy Cookout Barbecue and Fuente del Oro Restaurante
Keep an eye out for the Big Thunder Photographer shop for ride photos

Related attractions

If you loved the twists and turns of Big Thunder Mountain, don’t miss these adventure-packed rides nearby:

Phantom Manor – A haunted mansion with a connected backstory
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril – A more intense coaster in Adventureland
Pirates of the Caribbean – A boat ride through pirate-infested waters