New Update at Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain

This is promising! After being closed for several months, we finally see a great update at Walt Disney World’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Big Thunder Closure

This attraction first opened in Walt Disney World in 1980 and has quite a big fan following. Over the years, short refurbishments have been completed, but now a lengthy refurbishment is well underway.

A year-long refurbishment of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad began on January 6, 2025. Work will include moving the tower and replacing some or all of the tracks. The final scene may also be upgraded.

For several months, a large crane was in place, but now a new development has us excited for the progress of this lengthy refurbishment.

Big Thunder Mountain Update

Yesterday, while we were aboard the Liberty Square Riverboat, we noticed a great update over at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. We spotted an updated look for a train engine for this attraction.

The leading engine features a more vibrant color scheme compared to the previous design. It is also interesting to note that the passenger cars appear more muted than the previous vibrant orange.

Although vehicle testing is not yet taking place, it is great to be able to see a train once again at this attraction.

When will Big Thunder Mountain Reopen?

When Disney first announced this closure, a reopening date was not set, but simply stated that it would reopen in 2026. Now it appears this closure may extend further into 2026 than any of us hoped.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen in 2026.

You can read more about the recent permit that has us thinking this refurbishment may take even longer HERE.

What do you think of this new design? When do you think Big Thunder will reopen? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with your Disney pals.