Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to reopen from major refurbishment at Magic Kingdom on May 3

Howdy, pardners! When the wildest ride in the wilderness i reopens at Walt Disney World, it'll have a few new updates, including a new height requirement

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom in the Walt Disney World Resort has ben closed since January 6, 2025, and Walt Disney World has just announced when it will reopen!

One of Magic Kingdom's most popular attractions, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is undergoing a major refurbishment that will enhance its longevity and to ensure smooth ride operations well into the future. Improvements include the replacement of the entire coaster track, and refreshed audio-animatronics, and props.

Plus, guests will discover new magic in Big Thunder Mountain Railroad when it reopens as Disney Imagineers have added an updated opening scene.

Guests will find themselves among beautiful Rainbow Caverns when the trains rattle their way underground to spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools, but they may not be as friendly as they first appear.

When will the ride be back in operation? Previously, we only knew that the coaster would reopen this spring, but Disney has announced that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen on May 3, 2026.

Check out the latest theme park news and updates from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando, LEGOLAND Florida, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

A key part of the refurbishment was installing a new track and refreshed passenger trains. These updates were carefully planned to preserve the attraction’s classic storytelling and trademark hootin’ an’ hollerin’ energy, while adding new life, movement, and detail to the experience guests know so well.

With all the improvements made to the attraction, along with a comprehensive review from our safety teams, Big Thunder Mountain will reopen with a lowered height requirement of 38”. Climb aboard, lil prospectors!

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