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Throwback: Smoke and Flames Surround Guests During Disney Ride Breakdown

Big thunder mountain railroad
Credit: Disney

Guests had an “extra” magical day at Disneyland.

Fantasyland in the Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Teases Return of Beloved Attraction After Nearly 5 Years Of Downtime

When visiting the original Disneyland Resort, there are so many thrilling and iconic rides and attractions that guests can experience. From Matterhorn Bobsleds to Haunted Mansion, the level of quality is unmatched when it comes to Disney theme park rides.

One of the most legendary and “wildest” rides in Disney park history has to be Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Found in the Frontierland section of the park, this attraction offers guests a thrilling experience as they traverse through bat-infested caverns, steep hills, and big drops. This ride is only as fun as it is when it is working, and unfortunately, sometimes guests can get stuck while onboard.

As shown in a years-old TikTok, this exact situation happened just as riders were topping the final lift hill at the end of the ride.

As they approached the top, smoke and fire filled the cavern up as guests stop dead in their tracks (literally) and wait for the ride to continue.

See the video below from @trythegraystuff_

Thunder Mountain breaks down #disneyland#disneycaliforniaadventure #thundermountain#thundermountainrailroad #disneyrides #disneyfail#disneyridebreakdown

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As you can see, the guests get stuck “right at the best part” of the ride, leaving guests dangling at the top of the final hill. We aren’t sure how long guests were stuck or if they were forced to evacuate but we can only hope it started back up soon! Ride malfunctions and breakdowns like these are fairly common and usually nothing to worry about. While nothing major appeared to have happened, the guest still was disappointed that they got stuck at the “best part” of the ride.

During this finale, smoke and flames shoot out toward guests but usually, it goes right over their heads as they make their way down the hill. in this instance, the effects just shoot in their face as the guests remain stuck.

It makes for a funny situation on what would be an intense finale to one of Disney’s bets roller coasters. The smoke and fire effects are a more recent addition to the ride, debuting years ago at Disneyland Park. While lots of fans are hesitant for Disney to update classic attractions, it’s safe to say this has been one of the most well-received overhauls ever.

The same will hopefully be said about Disney Word’s version of Big Thunder, which is currently closed for refurbishment. The ride shut down back in January for an extensive overhaul, one that will last through until next year.

The ride is expected to receive some upgrades seen on other versions of the attraction, such as Disneyland’s final lift hill extravaganza.

Have you ever been stuck like this? Let us know in the comments below. 

About Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

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