Big Thunder Mountain vs. Space Mountain

Attribute	Big Thunder Mountain	Space Mountain
Location	Frontierland, Disneyland	Tomorrowland, Disneyland
Theme	Wild West mining town	Outer space
Track Type	Steel	Steel
Number of Lift Hills	2	1
Speed	36 mph	35 mph
Height	197 ft	118 ft

Overview

Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain are two of the most popular attractions at Disney theme parks around the world. Both roller coasters offer thrilling experiences for guests, but they have distinct themes and features that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain to help you decide which one you should ride on your next visit to a Disney park.

Theme

Big Thunder Mountain is a wild west-themed roller coaster that takes riders on a journey through an abandoned mine in the American Southwest. The ride features desert landscapes, cacti, and a runaway train that speeds through twists and turns. On the other hand, Space Mountain is a futuristic indoor roller coaster that simulates a space voyage through the cosmos. Riders zoom through the darkness of outer space, past stars and planets, in a thrilling and immersive experience.

Thrill Level

Both Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain offer a high level of thrill for riders, but in different ways. Big Thunder Mountain is known for its fast speeds, sharp turns, and sudden drops, giving riders a sense of excitement and adrenaline. On the other hand, Space Mountain is more about the element of surprise, with twists and turns that are enhanced by the darkness of the indoor setting. The feeling of weightlessness and the sensation of flying through space add to the thrill of the ride.

Accessibility

Big Thunder Mountain is an outdoor roller coaster that is accessible to guests of all ages and heights, as long as they meet the minimum height requirement. The ride is relatively smooth and does not have any inversions or intense drops, making it suitable for families and thrill-seekers alike. Space Mountain, on the other hand, has a higher minimum height requirement and may not be suitable for younger children or guests with certain medical conditions. The darkness and fast speeds of the ride can be disorienting for some riders.

Queue Experience

The queue experience for Big Thunder Mountain is themed to resemble a mining town in the American Southwest, with detailed props, interactive elements, and a winding path that builds anticipation for the ride. Guests can explore the town and learn about the history of the mine while waiting in line. On the other hand, the queue for Space Mountain is designed to resemble a futuristic spaceport, with neon lights, space-themed music, and interactive games to keep guests entertained. The queue sets the stage for the space voyage that awaits riders.

Ride Experience

Big Thunder Mountain features a traditional roller coaster layout with banked turns, hills, and drops that mimic the feeling of riding on a runaway train. The ride is fast-paced and exhilarating, with moments of weightlessness and surprise around every corner. Space Mountain, on the other hand, is a more intense experience with sharp turns, sudden drops, and dark tunnels that add to the sense of speed and excitement. The feeling of flying through space adds a unique element to the ride.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain are both iconic Disney attractions that offer thrilling experiences for guests of all ages. While Big Thunder Mountain is a wild west-themed roller coaster with fast speeds and sharp turns, Space Mountain is a futuristic indoor roller coaster that simulates a space voyage through the cosmos. Both rides have their own unique themes, thrill levels, and queue experiences that make them must-rides for any Disney park visitor. Whether you prefer the wild west or outer space, you are sure to have a memorable experience on either Big Thunder Mountain or Space Mountain.