Good morning from Magic Kingdom, where Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is now open! Today is the first time that the attraction has been open to guests since it closed on January 6, 2025. During the 16-month refurbishment, Disney fully replaced the entire length of roller coaster track and added some new magic to the Magic Kingdom classic. We made it out to Magic Kingdom early this morning to grab photos and video of the reopening. Here’s a look around!
PHOTOS, VIDEO: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Reopens at Magic Kingdom
We’ll start with a full on-ride video of the refreshed Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Perhaps the biggest update to the ride can’t even be shown on video – it has to be felt. The track is incredibly smooth now, by far the best that we’ve ever felt for the attraction. The roller coaster track replacement team should be incredibly proud. Their hard work ensures that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will continue to be a Magic Kingdom classic for decades to come. I can think of one other “mountain” at Magic Kingdom that could use their talents, but I digress.
In terms of sensation, we rode in the back row twice. It could just be because we haven’t ridden on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in 16 months, but I would say that the ride actually feels a bit faster than before. I know there was some speculation in the fan community that the ride would be tamed down, becoming “The Mildest Ride in the Wilderness” due to the lower minimum height requirement. I’m very happy to say that’s not the case in the slightest. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad retains the title of “The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness”, unequivocally.
That said, the smoother track will make the ride feel different. Gone are the micro imperfections from the track. That means less wobble and whip. However, that will surely return in time. We’re just happy that Disney was able to successfully invest in an aging classic, not only restoring it to its former glory, but creating the best Big Thunder ride experience we’ve ever had at Magic Kingdom.
Here are some still photos from our Big Thunder Mountain Railroad experience this morning. We’ve also included some photos from Disney during the first lift hill Rainbow Caverns moment. Riding in the last row, you only get a glimpse of the Rainbow Caverns before Big Thunder turns angry, and the entire scene is flooded in red.
We’ll be back later today with some photos from the queue. It remains largely unchanged, but fully refreshed.
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!
Great pictures! Can’t wait to ride!