Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Gets a Fun Upgrade
The "Wildest Ride in the Wilderness" just received an extra dose of magic and we LOVE it!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Changes
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closed on January 6, 2025, for a HUGE refurbishment. Work included moving the tower and replacing some or all of the tracks.
The brand-new tracks allowed Disney to lower the height requirement for this attraction from 40" to 38". During this lengthy refurbishment, gold was hidden throughout the attraction. Also, audio animatronics and effects that have been missing for several years have now been refreshed.
The attraction is now not only thrilling attraction, but now offers a really fun backstory as well. Be sure to check this out HERE, along with seeing other new effects.
Big Thunder Mountain New Additions
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad officially reopened to Guests on May 3, 2026, but Disney continues to add new upgrades to the attraction.
Disney shares on Instagram that "Imagineers are happy to welcome some old friends home to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Walt Disney World.
Mom and dad opossum are back, with the rest of the family returning soon."
Big Thunder Mountain Upgrade
The Instagram post allows us to see the magic happening overnight with Disney Imagineers carefully installing them in the dark.
This is the type of magic that Disney fans love to find. While many Guests may not notice the opossum family while speeding through the attraction, this is a fun nod to the history of this attraction.
Opossum mom and dad have returned to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
See the full photos of this installation:
What other elements do you hope will be added to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Walt Disney World? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with you Disney pals.
