A Thundering Splashdown

The first time I saw photos of Disneyland Paris' Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I thought that the money shot scene with the train dropping down to water level (almost like a water ride's climactic drop) and then careening around a corner was the thrilling finale of the ride. Turns out it's closer to the beginning than the end, happening after the first lift hill.  Still, it's an exciting moment that sets the tone for what is an exuberant and fantastic attraction--the best Big Thunder Mountain Railroad of them all.  Unlike the iterations at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Tokyo Disneyland--which are relatively similar to each other in layout--this one is unique, crossing from the mainland of Thunder Mesa to the island on the other side of the Rivers of the Far West and back.  Plus, it looks so pretty!!