Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Is Back and Better Than Ever
The wildest ride in the wilderness is open for business again. As of May 4, 2026, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Walt Disney World has officially reopened following a major refurbishment, and there is plenty of new magic waiting on the tracks.
There's Gold in That There Mountain
The legend of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad goes back to the early days of America's gold rush era. When Barnabas T. Bullion struck gold in the Big Thunder region, he wasted no time building the Big Thunder Mountain Company, eyes full of glittering ambition.
But the mountain had other plans. Strange things began happening. Machines failed without explanation. Mine shafts collapsed. No matter how deep the miners dug, the forces of Big Thunder pushed back. The gold was there, alright -- getting to it was another matter entirely.
A Classic Gets Some Shine
The mountain attractions at Disney Parks around the world have earned their legendary status. They deliver thrills, tell stories, and leave lasting memories for guests of every age.
After a thorough, top-to-bottom refurbishment, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is in peak condition and ready to deliver that rumblin', rollin' fun for years to come.
The Wildest Ride, Refreshed
At the heart of the refurbishment is a brand-new track and a set of refreshed passenger trains. Every update was made with careful attention to preserving the attraction's classic storytelling and signature energy, while adding new life and detail to an experience guests already love.
The improvements also come with a new perk: the height requirement has been lowered to 38 inches, welcoming even more young prospectors to the adventure.
New Magic Thunderin' In
Beyond the upgrades, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has something genuinely new for fans to discover.
As trains rattle underground, guests are treated to spectacular natural caverns filled with phosphorescent pools that shimmer and illuminate iridescent stalagmites (the ones on the floor) and stalactites (the ones on the ceiling). It is a breathtaking sight -- though the ominous rumble from deep within the mountain is a good reminder that not everything glittering underground is quite so welcoming.
The Rainbow Caverns are beautiful. They are also a little unsettling. That is exactly what makes them worth the ride.
Recent Posts
Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks and Caicos Is the Perfect Family Upgrade
There is a new gem along Grace Bay Beach, and it is absolutely worth the hype. Treasure Beach Village, the newest addition to Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort, officially opened its doors on March 1, 2026, and it is already turning heads. Think brand-new suites with jaw-dropping views, a steakhouse that is a first for…
Universal Kids Resort Opens July 1 — Seven Lands of Pure Kid Magic Await
Grab the sunscreen and charge the camera! Universal Kids Resort, Universal Destinations & Experiences’ first-ever regional theme park designed specifically for kids, officially opens its gates in Frisco, Texas, on July 1. The wait is almost over, and honestly, the kids are not the only ones who should be excited. A Park Built in a…
Mando and Grogu Are Coming to Disney Parks — Here’s Everything to Know
Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu has hit theaters, and Disney Parks are making the whole galaxy feel it. From an all-new ride storyline to Grogu cookies, here is every experience arriving at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. A new mission on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run has a brand-new…
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Gets a Muppets Makeover at Hollywood Studios
Get ready to rock. The Electric Mayhem has officially taken over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the details are as wild as a drum solo from Animal himself. One night only — and the band has gone missing The Electric Mayhem is headlining the biggest Hollywood concert of their career. Every…
Soarin’ Across America: New Locations Revealed for Disney’s All-New Flight Experience
Soarin’ Across America Is Coming, and the Views Look Incredible To celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, Disney is launching Soarin’ Across America, an all-new adventure that sweeps guests over the breathtaking landscapes, coastlines, and cityscapes that make this country so unforgettable. The experience takes flight May 26, 2026, at Walt Disney World Resort, followed…
Let's Start the Magic!
Crazy Imagination Travel Advisors are experts at the art of vacationing Disney and beyond. No two families are alike and no two vacations are alike. Each vacation is carefully planned and customized to our guest. From the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to world-wide adventures in Australia, our Travel Advisors are ready to help guests plan their dream vacation. Go ahead. Put our service to the test!
