One of Disney World’s most iconic rides is about to return from a LONG refurbishment, with some major changes.

Whee!

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the historic attraction that has dominated the Frontierland skyline for over 40 years, has been closed for refurbishment since January 2025. That’s finally set to end tomorrow, May 3rd! However, the version of Big Thunder that reopens tomorrow is going to be quite different than the one that closed a year and a half ago.

Upon reopening, the legendary E-Ticket coaster will feature updated tracks and trains that will “preserve the attraction’s classic storytelling and trademark hootin’ an’ hollerin’ energy” while improving the ride experience.

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These changes — and a “comprehensive review from their safety teams” — have even led to a major rule change, as Disney has lowered the ride’s height requirement from 40 inches to 38 inches, which will allow younger riders to experience the attraction even earlier in life.

The new ride vehicles!

In addition, the ride will also feature a new “rainbow caverns” sequence as a tribute to the rainbow caverns that once found a home in both the Rainbow Caverns Mine Train and its successor, the Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland at Disneyland.

©Disney

Upon reopening, Big Thunder will be added to the Magic Kingdom’s Tier 1 Multi Pass options, joining The Jungle Cruise, Space Mountain, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and Peter Pan’s Flight. However, the ride will NOT be offered as part of Early Entry at the Magic Kingdom, as that hotel guest perk will remain available only in Tomorrowland and Fantasyland for now.

Magic Kingdom Early Entry

The reopening of Big Thunder is the first step in the transformation of Frontierland, which is also building towards the opening of the now under-construction Cars-themed Piston Peak sub-land. 

Piston Peak construction

A NEW and seemingly improved version of Big Thunder Mountain is reopening at the Magic Kingdom tomorrow! Stay tuned to DFB for further coverage of the ride’s opening.

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Are you excited for the new Big Thunder? Let us know in the comments below.