The Wildest Ride’s Major Refurbishment
The attraction Big Thunder Mountain, has been a classic at the Magic Kingdom since it opened in 1980. This iconic rollercoaster, inspired by Arizona’s, Monument Valley, offers thrill seekers a high speed journey through a mining town on a runaway mine train. January 6th 2025, saw Big Thunder Mountain temporarily close for a comprehensive refurbishment, which is set to be completed in 2026.
Help keeping to the timetable
The refurbishment of Big Thunder Mountain is a significant undertaking, which continues to show Disney’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing its classic attractions, in a similar fashion to the updates Country Bears Jamboree (also located in Frontierland).
While full details about the update remain under wraps, recent weeks have seen major it is believed that the enhancements will see the Magic Kingdom’s version more closely resemble its’s counterparts from other Disney parks. Most notably, Disneyland’s versions which underwent a similar refurbishment and reopened March 2014, this saw the introduction of new special effects, including a dynamic dynamite explosion scene and smoke effects. These enhancements elevated the ride experience, and it’s assumed that similar upgrades will be introduced for the Magic Kingdom’s version.
New Developments in Frontierland
This refurbishment of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, seems to also be part of the transformation within Frontierland. Disney has also announced plans introducing two major additions, first a Pixar Cars theme addition to Frontierland, this is to replace the Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island, and a new land themed around Disney Villains, with this location to be just beyond Big Thunder Mountain. This area is set to feature two new major attractions, dining options, and retail spaces.
Impact on Guests and Park Experience
This closure of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will undoubtedly impact guests’ experiences at the Magic Kingdom. This is a fan favourite and classic attraction, its absence may have some influence for some visitors’ planning to visit this year. Will this closure also have an impact on the other attractions within the Magic Kingdom, as the crowds will have one less attraction to queue (two if including the also closed for refurbishment attractions Astro Orbiters, from Tommowland, set to open Summer 2025). However, all is not lost for Frontierland, guests are now able to experience the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which opened in 2024, offering a fresh and engaging experience, which has recently made the change to use a regular standby line from Disneys Virtual Queue system.
Looking Ahead
With it anticipated reopening in 2026, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is expected to offer guests an enhanced and refreshed experience. Keeping the heart of this loved attraction, the update should add some new Disney magic that brings some technological advancements. Combining nostalgia and innovation is a hallmark of Disney’s approach to enhancing park experiences for its guests.
If you are visiting the Magic Kingdom during the refurbishment, hope aboard Walt Disney World Railroad for a look at the progress and maybe a wave or two from the very friendly construction crew.
