Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, one of Magic Kingdom’s most iconic rides, is officially closed for an extensive refurbishment. Guests visiting Walt Disney World over the next couple of years will notice construction walls around the attraction as work takes place to preserve and enhance this legendary roller coaster. Here’s what we know about the refurbishment, its potential impact on visitors, and what fans can look forward to when it reopens.
The Scope of the Refurbishment
The closure of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad marks the beginning of a significant, multi-year refurbishment. Initial reports suggest the work will include a complete track replacement, similar to updates made at Disneyland’s version of the ride roughly a decade ago. A crane has been positioned near the attraction for months, signaling heavy construction efforts to come.
Though Walt Disney World has confirmed the ride won’t reopen until 2026, the exact timeline for its return, including the specific season or month, has yet to be announced.
Visitor Impact
Visitors to Magic Kingdom will need to adjust their plans as this refurbishment progresses. Construction walls now surround the attraction, and visual work updates might be most easily viewed from the Liberty Square Riverboat. However, guests should note that the Liberty Square Riverboat itself is subject to periodic closures, which could limit these vantage points occasionally.
For fans of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the closure presents a challenge but also an opportunity to explore other attractions and experiences in Frontierland. Guests might consider visiting Splash Mountain’s replacement, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, along with unique dining and entertainment options available in the area.
What to Expect from the Updates
While Disney has yet to release detailed information about the changes coming to Big Thunder Mountain, previous refurbishments at other locations may offer clues. When Disneyland underwent a similar process, updates included a smoother ride experience, fresh special effects in key scenes, and improved overall reliability.
Fans can likely anticipate changes designed not only to modernize the ride but also to maintain its iconic mining-town aesthetic. Whether it’s subtle additions to the queue or new elements introduced during the ride itself, Disney Imagineering often incorporates details that add to the overall storytelling experience.
Staying Updated on the Refurbishment
While the closure of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is certain to leave a noticeable gap in Magic Kingdom’s attraction lineup, its long-term improvements will likely ensure the ride’s longevity and enhance the experience for future guests. By taking the time to modernize and revitalize such a beloved attraction, Disney works to preserve the magic it continues to offer visitors from around the world.
For those eager to monitor the progress of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad’s refurbishment, keeping an eye on the DVC Shop blog for all the latest updates.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
