Disney World Announces Reopening of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Hold onto your hats and glasses because the "Wildest Ride in the Wilderness" will be reopening soon at Walt Disney World!

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Closure

Disney World Just Changed This Big Thunder Mountain Update — Credit: Donna

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

Back in June, we shared an updated look for a train engine for this attraction. Be sure to check this out HERE.

Earlier, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopened at Disneyland. Guests at Walt Disney World have not so patiently waited to once again enjoy "The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness".

Big Thunder Mountain Changes

Disney shared the backstory for Big Thunder Mountain. The quick version is that Barnabas T. Bullion found gold in the Big Thunder Mountain region, but the forces of nature fought back. For the full backstory, read HERE.

"And when the attraction reopens next year, the unsuspectin' passengers who board the runaway trains will learn just how wild the wilderness can get." You also don't want to miss our first glimpse of the beautiful "Rainbow Caverns".

Big Thunder Mountain just hit a HUGE milestone in its refurbishment. Ride testing has begun! You can check out a full video of this testing HERE.

Big Thunder Mountain Reopening

This is what we have been waiting for! Walt Disney World announced today that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen in "Spring 2026".

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen with a full track replacement.

Although an exact date is not given, this is great news for guests planning ahead for Walt Disney World trips for late spring and summer.

What do you think of this reopening timeline? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with your Disney pals.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Donna loved Disney from an early age. As a child, her family would joke that she lived in "Donna Land." As an adult, she enjoys planning and creating magical vacations for her family. She always brings a little faith, trust, and a little bit of Pixie Dust!