Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: 10 Facts You May Not Know About the Classic Disneyland Attraction

Hold onto your ears! 

The wildest ride in the wilderness is back up and running - just in time for summer! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (one of our family favorites) has gotten a magical makeover with an upgraded track, restoration of the historic Rainbow Ridge Mining Town, new paint on portions of the mountain and updates to the train vehicles. Disneyland guests taking a ride on this runaway mine train will discover some new explosive surprises along the way. (Spoiler alert: there may be smoke and fire!) 

We got a chance to ride AND interview Executive Walt Disney Imagineer, Ray Spencer (he's also Creative Director for Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure Park.) Well, there may have been more laughs and screams than actual questions being asked, but it was so interesting to hear the stories from Ray about the remodel. How challenging it was trying to give the beloved attraction an upgrade, without changing too much of a classic.

Here are some interesting facts, you might not know about one of Disney Parks most famous attractions!

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad celebrated its grand opening in September 1979, becoming the third peak in the Disneyland Park “mountain range of thrill rides.” It was preceded by Matterhorn Bobsleds (1959) and Space Mountain (1977) and followed by Splash Mountain (1989).

•  The attraction’s setting evokes 19^th century gold-mining territory, with rugged bedrock and desert cactus. Guests board a mine train for a thrilling, high-speed adventure past the spires and buttes of the old West and into the tunnels and shafts of a dark and mysterious mine.

• Since its opening in 1979, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland has carried more than 225 million guests who are warned to “hold onto your hats and glasses” as they prepare to dip and drop into the canyons and caves of the Big Thunder ghost town.

•   The unusual rock spires of Big Thunder Mountain were inspired by the “hoodoos” of Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. The tallest spire on Big Thunder Mountain reaches 104 feet.

• Objects that may be spotted by guests in and around Big Thunder Mountain include a century-old stamp mill, hand-driven drill press, gears, picks, shovels and other artifacts acquired from abandoned mines in Nevada, Colorado, Minnesota and Wyoming, as well as museums and swap meets.

• Subsequent versions of the attraction appeared in Magic Kingdom Park, Walt Disney World, Florida in 1980; Tokyo Disneyland Park in 1987 and Disneyland Paris in 1992.

• The miniature town of Big Thunder, seen at the end of the attraction, first appeared in 1956 as part of the Rainbow Cavern Mine Train and Mine Train through Nature’s Wonderland attractions. Many Disneyland fans still call it by its original name: Rainbow Ridge. The town is said to have been a favorite of Walt Disney, who built miniatures himself as a hobby.

• Other items from the Nature’s Wonderland days include the caves of Rainbow Caverns, the rock-work buttes at the entry to Balancing Rock Canyon, and some of the animals – the dynamite-devouring goat, coyotes, possums, snakes, turtles, vultures - who appear among the rocky cliffs surrounding the mine tunnels.

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was the first major design project for Walt Disney Imagineer and Disney Legend Tony Baxter, whose subsequent projects at Disneyland included the new Fantasyland of 1983, Star Tours, Splash Mountain and the Indiana Jones Adventure.

• Along with the new track, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopened in March, 2014, with an enhanced audio system that sharpens the sounds heard by guests as they ride through the caverns and buildings. Even the wildlife at Big Thunder can be heard more distinctly.

Have you had the chance to ride it yet? 

What was your favorite part? We'd love to know!

Show Your #DisneySidewalk Program with Disney Artist Noah (Interview)

If you're here to find out more about the #DisneySidewalk program, recently launched by Disney Parks Instagram Accounts - then you've came to the right place! 

We had the privilege of interviewing featured Disney artist, Noah at the start of the Rock your Disney Side 24 Hour Celebration. He was there to announce the Disney Parks new Instagram program, Show Your Disney Sidewalk! Guests can participate in Show Your Disney Sidewalk at home by tagging photos of their own chalk art with #DisneySidewalk on Instagram. They might even be featured on the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Instagram accounts.

This beautiful 8' X 8' chalk featuring highlights of Disney California Adventure drawing made by Noah will be donated to Autism Speaks for auction.

Summer vacation is the perfect time to bust out the sidewalk chalk and perfect your craft of cartooning. We’ve been having a ball so far this summer doing simple things together such as chalk drawings on the driveway. It's an easy, inexpensive way to create art and anyone can do it.

Check out these amazing looking creations made by other Disney artists... We can't wait to see what you come up with!

Make sure to follow these Instagram Accounts:

Disneyland

Walt Disney World

Noah

Disney Sisters

And use the hashtag #DisneySidewalk

Photo Fun at Disney California Adventure and #DisneySMMoms

Professional photographer Tracey Clark (and first born Disney Sister) is always saying, it's not about how fancy the camera you are using is, it's about learning how to get the best results with what you've got. AMEN Sister! We don't know about you, but it we've always got our iPhones in our hands (or back pockets) at the Disney Parks ready to shoot at moments notice. Doesn't everybody?

We're celebrating the Disney Social Media On The Road Events this summer and sharing some of our favorite photos taken at Disney California Adventure. Since the update of Buena Vista Street and Cars Land this park creates one heck of a backdrop to shoot amazing images. Like SERIOUS Magic, don't you agree?

The Iconic Shot

When you think of Disney California Adventure Park the attraction that comes to mind is the iconic Mickey's Fun Wheel. It's big, bright, and has that loveable mouse face on it. Add in the reflection in the water and you've got one magical shot. Say cheese! (See what we did there?)

On A Ride

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail is the perfect attraction for all ages. Take in glorious wilderness sights and embark on exciting adventures along the pathway to capture great photos of your family. Although you may have to look up (way up) to find them!

Sweet Treat

Nothing could be sweeter than enjoying a sweet treat at any of the Disney Parks. No matter what delicious snack you choose, (Churro!) (Dole Whip!) we bet it will be easier to capture more smiles from the family. Cruising down Buena Vista Street with a lollipop in hand - Life is GOOD!

Timeless

The beauty about shooting black and white at the Parks is the vintage feel that it creates. This shot looks like it could have been taken 50 years ago, but actually it was taken on our last trip to Disney California Adventure. You'd also never known that it wasn't shot on film, instead it with an iPhone edited in Instagram. The best part is that you can shoot in color and edit your photos into black and white later.

Night Shots

Sure you can get your kicks at Route 66 during the day, but at night this park lights up with style! Cars Land is a visual wonderland, to take in while the neon signs glow and the vivid colors light up the night sky. It's incredible to see in person and is stunning to photograph.

To see more awesome Disney images & get a few tips, make sure to check out

Photo Fun at Disneyland.

GIVEAWAY! 

You could win a copy of Tracey's book, Elevate the Everyday, click HERE for your chance to win.

She will be sharing her passion for photography at the Disney Social Media Moms On the Road Celebration in Phoenix later this month. (YAY!) We'll all be there in Arizona together! All for one, and one for all. Plus we couldn't miss out on Disney Magic!

Will we see you there? Leave a comment letting us know! HOLLA!

Ridemakerz: Build Memories at Home this Father's Day #BuildMemories

"Fathers, build a car with your son. You never know, it may just change him for life. Find the time and the money. I guarantee that you won’t regret it, and neither will he."

-Robert Kibbe

  

High-Octane Fun for the Whole Family

Our family loves Ridemakerz! We've actually celebrated Father's Day at Ridemakerz before. It's hard to tell who has the most fun. The dads line up the cars, the kids race them and set up courses and even us moms like to watch and play too. It's non-stop giggles and laughter, high-speed races and crashes, and a whole lot of ways to Build Memories! We're hosting a Birthday Party Bash later on this summer. Some of our favorites are the Disney and Marvel themed Ridez. Check out this Captain America Camaro available now!

 Build Memories with Your Pit Crew

Fathers and sons used to spend hours upon hours working on cars together. Under the hoods and bent over engines. Ridemakerz is bringing back the joy that building a vehicle together can bring. This time it's a toy car and it's definitely not just for boys! What would you say if we told you that we have found the perfect gift to get Dads playing together with their sons AND their daughters. Ridemakerz is a brand that brings key elements of play together. Creativity, engineering and the need for speed. Add in the ability to use your imagination and you've got a one-of-a-kind experience. Each ride is an expression that reflects the individuals’ own unique style and personality. A great thing about making your own creation, is that these cars are something that your family will spend more time together playing with all year long. Whether you go visit your local Ridemakerz shop and customize your ride there, (Our favorite is at Downtown Disney in Anaheim) customize your ride online, or get a build at home kit - everyone wins!


Buckle Up
Disney Sisters are proud to announce our partnership with Ridemakerz, a unique one-of-a-kind car making experience. We are also excited to introduce the exclusive Build-At-Home Father's Day Kits now available for delivery to your very own garage - VROOM! This Father's Day Sale is a perfect way to get 2 Ridez with all the parts so that Dads and kids can each build their own customized car, add on the Radio Control upgrade (our family favorite) and hit the road!

Father's Day Special
Right now you can get 50% off Exclusive Father's Day Kits available May 27th, while supplies last. Make sure to order by June 5th for guaranteed delivery by Father's Day. (Father's Day is Sunday June 15th this year.) You buy the parts, they build the memories! Choose from 4 exclusive Father's Day Kits for son or daughter (see below) - all 50% off while supplies last! To purchase your own kit online CLICK HERE. *Additional discounts cannot be applied to Father's Day kits.

GIVEAWAY

One lucky reader will win the Father's Day kit of their choice! Simply complete the Rafflecopter form AND tell us which Ridemakerz Father's Day Kit you would like to win in the comments below. Comments will close on June 3rd, 2014 at 11:59 PM PST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Ridemakerz is Social 

Use hashtag #BuildMemories to join in the fun!

Like them on Facebook.

Follow them on Twitter.

Subscribe to them on Youtube.

Let's be social over here: 
Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.

Disclosure: This post and the giveaway are both sponsored by Ridemakerz.

All thoughts are 100% Magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only.

Maleficent Doll: Disney Film Collection at Disney Store #Maleficent

Maleficent Disney Film Collection Doll - 12''

Well, well, it's Maleficent, in all her splendor. 

Part of the the Disney Film Collection, this finely detailed collector's doll captures the fiery spirit of the legendary icon as she appears in Disney's new live-action film. Maleficent comes to theaters May 30th and it's sure to be wickedly fun!

Get yours for $34.95 at the DISNEY STORE.

Magic in the details...

Please Note: Purchase of this item is limited to 2 per Guest.

• Fully articulated figure
• Deluxe costume
• Textured fabric with faux leather collar and detailing
• Faceted jewel at neck
• Finely sculptured head with attached horns
• Includes staff
• Scenic packaging
• Part of the Disney Film Collection

Aurora Doll: #Maleficent Disney Film Collection at the Disney Store

Aurora Disney Film Collection Doll - Maleficent - 12''

Once upon a dream comes the golden vision of Princess Aurora as she appears in Disney's new live-action film Maleficent. Finely detailed with her beautiful hair and elegant gown, this Aurora doll is part of the Disney Film Collection. Maleficent comes to theaters May 30th and it's sure to be wickedly fun!

Get yours for $34.95 at the DISNEY STORE.

Magic in the details...

Please Note: Purchase of this item is limited to 2 per Guest.

• Fully articulated
• Deluxe costume
• Satin gown with mesh top layer
• Brocade trim with gold foil thread detailing
• Rooted hair
• Finely sculptured head with fern leaf headband
• Scenic packaging
• Part of the Disney Film Collection

Disneyland 24 Hour Party: Rock Your Disney Side #DisneySide

The "Rock Your Disney Side" 24 Hour Party is less than a week away. We'll be at the Disneyland Resort bright and early, May 23 as Disney Parks kicks off summer with the 24-hour celebration and all-nighter in the parks. The big kick-off starts at 6am in the Esplanade between the two parks. We are excited to experience all of the magic that 24 hours at the Disney Parks can bring. We can't guarantee how long we will last, but we do promise to report back to you with the photos, video, and our experiences at this one-of-a-kind event! What better way to kick off the summer, than to party at the happiest place on earth? Want to know the very best part... You're ALL invited! (Valid theme park admission is required.)

View important information (straight from Disney Parks) regarding the Rock Your Disney Side: 24-Hours event.

General Event Details:

• Hours of operation for the event will take place from 6:00 AM, May 23, 2014 to 6:00 AM, May 24, 2014.
• Only select attractions, entertainment and services will be available.
• Valid theme park admission is required. 
• Event is subject to restrictions and change without notice.
• Make sure to join the fun by using the hashtag #DisneySide on all social media platforms.

Costume Details:

• Costumes should be child-friendly and adhere to any guidelines determined by Disney.
• Costumes should not be obstructive, offensive or violent; drag on the ground; contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another Guest; contain any weapons or objects which resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
• Masks may be worn, but they must not obstruct vision, and eyes must be visible at all times.
• Guests who dress like Disney characters may not pose for pictures or sign autographs.
• Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused admission.

At Disneyland Park:

• Mickey’s Soundsational Parade is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.
• The Magic Eye Theater in Tomorrowland will host the Avengers Super Hero Movie Marathon throughout the day and night, presenting “Iron Man,” “Iron Man 2,” “Thor” and “Captain America: The First Avenger”!
• You can catch “Fantasmic!” at 9 p.m. or 10:30 p.m. and the “Magical” fireworks spectacular at 9:25 p.m.
• After the fireworks, come celebrate in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, where a DJ will be spinning tunes for everyone until 5 a.m.
• Royal Swing Ball presents a live band in the Royal Theatre at Fantasy Faire from 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
• Stop by the Tomorrowland Terrace for a live band in the evening and a late night Rock Your Disney Side Dance Party that lasts until 5 a.m.

At Disney California Adventure Park:

• You can enjoy live music throughout the day and night at the Paradise Garden Bandstand, with performances scheduled from 11:55 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.
• Extra performances are planned for “Disney Junior – Live on Stage!” at 9:30 a.m. and “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular” at 7:55 p.m.
• Muppets Theater plays host to sing-along screenings of the Academy Award-winning film, “Frozen,” starting at 11:30 a.m. And don’t forget to check out the sneak peek of “Maleficent” in the Bug’s Life Theater.
• “World of Color” will be presented on Paradise Bay at 9:45 p.m. and again at 3 a.m.
• Head on down to Pacific Wharf from 10:30 p.m. – 5 a.m. for The Wharf Dance Party.
• Mad T Party adds some spice to the night. You can rock ‘n’ roll your Disney Side with the Mad T Party Band and White Rabbit DJ, from 9 p.m. – 5 a.m.
• So whether you choose Disneyland park or Disney California Adventure park—or both!—to express your Disney Side, you’re in for a rockin’ good time at Disneyland Resort!

Are you ready to Rock Your Disney Side? Which coast will you be on? What park do you plan on visiting? We hope to see you there!

In Honor of Mother's Day: Disney Cards to Share with Your Mom

Wishing you a very Happy Mother's Day from all of us at Disney Sisters!

Here we are with our mom last year at DisneySMMoms in Walt Disney World.

As we reflect of all the Mamas out there we can't help but to think about some of our favorite Disney Moms of all time. 

Mrs. Jumbo - Dumbo's Mom (Dumbo)

Queen Elinor - Merida Mom (Brave)

Mrs. Incredible - Mom to Violet, Dash and Jack Jack (The Incredibles)

Kala - Tarzan's Adopted Mom (Tarzan)

Duchess - Mom to Marie, Toulouse, and Berlioz (The Aristocats)

Sky - Mom to Scout and Amber (Bears)

Kanga - Roo's Mom (Winnie the Pooh)

Perdita - Mom to All Puppies (101 Dalmations)

Eudora - Tiana's Mom (The Princess and the Frog)

Mrs. Potts - Chip's Mom (Beauty and the Beast)

Who are your favorite Disney Moms?

To help you celebrate the moms in your life, here are some adorable Disney Mother's Day cards that we discovered on one of our favorite Disney Blogs - OH MY DISNEY!

To see each card bigger check out the original post.

We'd also like to wish our mom a very Happy Mother's Day! She has been a big part of Disney Sisters since we started and we are so grateful for her. She is the ultimate supporter and in charge of the fan club - ok she might just be the only member! We try to bring her with us to as many special events, family media days, and conferences as possible. Every where we go she makes friends and everyone loves her. Her smile is contagious and she gives the best hugs! We feel so lucky to have her ray of light shining on us at all times. 

Thanks mama - WE LOVE YOU!

If you're still wondering what to get for your mama bear - 

make sure to check out our 

Mother's Day Gift Guide for Disney Loving Moms!

Disney Gifts for Mom: A Mother's Day Gift Guide

It's almost Mother's Day, which means it's time to celebrate the incredible women in our lives. If your mom is anything like us, we would love to get a Disney-inspired gift from our family on Mother's Day. (Or any other holiday for that matter!) If you are wondering where to start, here are a few fantastic ideas that the Disney mom in your life will love!

Dooney and Bourke

The quality construction and designer details of the Dooney and Bourke brand, make these fashion handbags a daily tie to Disney fun everyday! With a variety of colors, shapes and sizes to choose from, Mom will feel like a Queen when she has a Dooney and Bourke purse at her side. Purchase one for your mom at the Disney Store, or at any of the Disney Parks.

H20 Plus Collection

Every Mother deserves a day at the spa, but sometimes they don't always have the time with their very busy schedules. Keep your mom pampered the entire year long with these luxurious products created exclusively for the Disney Resorts. Relive your most magical moments on vacation with the refreshing H2O+ products. Purchase a set for your mom at the Disney Store.

Vera Bradley

Mickey and Minnie's colorful personalities bloom on this collection of bags, purses and wallets. Designed by Vera Bradley, the Midnight with Mickey design features a vibrant floral print against a dark background that will brighten up Mom's day. Created especially for Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Purchase one for your mom at the Disney Store, or at any of the Disney Parks.

Alex and Ani

These Bibbidi-bobbidi-bangles will delight the Mother in your household castle. You can personalize this bracelet for Mom with a variety of charms like colored birthstone gems, initials, Disney icons like Mickey and Minnie. She will be ready for the ball when she wears this jewelry. Purchase one (or two) for your mom at the Disney Store, or at any of the Disney Parks.

Disney Mugs

With so much going on in the mornings, sometimes us moms need a little extra help from our friend, caffeine. A thoughtful (and inexpensive) way to show mom you care is by getting her a Disney mug with her favorite character on it. She will always smile as she sips her morning coffee or evening tea. You can purchase yours at the Disney Store, or any of the Disney Parks.

American Tourister Luggage

Mom will be ready to go anywhere around the world with these beautiful pieces of luggage. These aren't your typical suitcases, American Tourister is the Official luggage of Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. So get planning your next Disney vacation, because doesn't your mom deserve it? You can purchase yours at American Tourister.

Smart Phone Covers

Moms and smart phones go together like a Cinderella and her glass slipper. We use our phones as our own personal assistant, rolodex, planner, internet, social media tool and of course communication device. Why not dress up Mom's #1 tool that she uses all day every day? Get her a new iPhone cover and give her phone an instant makeover. With so many different styles and designs, you're bound to find one that she will just LOVE! You can purchase yours at the Disney Store, or any of the Disney Parks.

Disney Annual Passes

This is by far our favorite gift. idea The gift that keeps on giving for 365 days of magic at the Happiest Place on Earth! If you are a located anywhere near Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort, an Annual Passport is a great option for Mom. Sure, it's pricy but you will be making priceless memories at the parks for an entire year with this gift. That's an incredible payoff. For Disneyland Passes buy them HERE. For Disney World Passes buy them HERE.

So there you have it a few of our favorite Disney gift ideas for Mom. Do you know a mom who loves Disney? Are you asking for any of these items this year for Mother's Day? Will you be buying any of these for your Mother? We'd love to know your thoughts!

Images: © Disney Store and Disney Parks.

Full Disclosure: We were invited to the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. The Disneyland Resort offered a discounted rate for all attendees and their families. This is a once in a lifetime experience and we are grateful to Disney for allowing us to participate. We'll be sharing unique things seen and heard throughout the Celebration. Please keep in mind these our own personal thoughts and opinions, not those of the Walt Disney Company. We did receive swag including a suitcase from American Tourister and H20+ Spa products.