Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Takes Final Big Step Forward

Hold onto your hats and glasses because the "Wildest Ride in the Wilderness" is taking final steps to reopen. See the newest update.

Big Thunder Mountain 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.

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."

Big Thunder Mountain Reopening

Walt Disney World announced that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen in "Spring 2026". 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.

Recently, Big Thunder Mountain hit a HUGE milestone in its refurbishment with ride testing! You can check out a full video of this testing HERE.

Imagineers also shared four exciting new updates for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Check out these updates HERE.

Big Step for Reopening

On a recent trip to Magic Kingdom, we noticed a big push to complete work on the outdoor queue and entrance to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Walt Disney World announced that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen in "Spring 2026".

Yesterday, Guests noticed ride vehicle testing along with the large geyser special effect testing. Disney Imagineers promised that effects that have been missing for several years will now be refreshed. The geysers are a great delivery on that promise.

With this big step forward, when do you think Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen? 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!