While visiting Magic Kingdom recently, we stopped by to check on the ongoing Big Thunder Mountain Railroad refurbishment. With the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island now closed, we can’t get a great look at the work, but we do have some updates to share!
New Scaffolding Arrives at Big Thunder Mountain
We’ll start with a look at some of the new scaffolding in place. While the massive crane has departed the construction site (a big milestone), there is still plenty of work to be done before the ride can welcome guests again. Walt Disney World says that the wildest ride in the wilderness will remain closed for the rest of the year, and reopen sometime in 2026.
In terms of scaffolding, there are two points of interest. The first is seen in the two photos below. It is mostly out of view, so it’s difficult to tell if it’s new or not. The next section of scaffolding is new, though.
Turning our attention to the lift hill, we can see new scaffolding surrounding one of the buttes. There’s actually a lot going on in this area, so let’s get a look at the scaffolding from a couple of angles and then take a closer look at other notable changes.
Envelope Test Device Returns
Following a push-pull test of the ride vehicle train last month, the envelope testing device has returned to the roller coaster tracks. In the context of roller coasters, an envelope test is a test that ensures that scenic elements are out of reach for guests. The device simulates the expected reach of guests and is then pulled through the length of the track to see if it comes in contact with anything.
Back in mid-June, we noticed that an envelope test had failed and that the device was in contact with a part of the themed mountain. We assume that Disney has addressed the issues, but it is interesting to see the device return.
Electronics Work
Finally, we noticed that crews were stationed at the top of a lift hill and that they were working on an electronics panel. I’m not sure if this is a new panel or not, but I would assume that if it isn’t new, it has certainly been updated during the refurbishment. Here’s a closer look.
Again, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is not scheduled to reopen until sometime in 2026. With new scaffolding and the return of the envelope testing device, it sure looks like the ride will remain closed for the rest of the year. Once all of the updates and upgrades are made to the ride, it will need to perform a lot of cycles before guests can begin riding it again.
For more on the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad track replacement project, check out our dedicated project page below!
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!
