ORLANDO, Fla. — The wildest ride in the wilderness is back.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World will reopen May 3 after a lengthy refurbishment that has lasted since January 2025, Disney announced Wednesday.
What You Need To Know
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopens May 3 after over a year of refurbishment
The ride has new tracks and refreshed trains for a smoother experience
Updates to ride themes include new magical elements for fans to discover
The reason for the downtime — Disney has installed all-new track for the ride, which should make for a smoother experience, and refreshed the passenger trains, the theme park announced.
The height requirement has also been lowered to 38 inches, down from 40.
In addition, updates were also made to the theme of the ride, with Disney revealing that it will reopen “with new magic for fans to discover.”
Disney previously shared concept art of what is in store.
The company previously revealed a refreshed scene that shows the train as it rumbles its way through a “beautiful” yet “menacing” Rainbow Cavern.
Big Thunder Mountain isn’t the only ride park visitors can rediscover in Magic Kingdom.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopened to all guests on Wednesday with new hand-held blasters, upgraded targets and ride vehicles.