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Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Gets Back on Track—Literally! New Track Installation Spotted at Magic Kingdom
Hold onto your hats and glasses, folks, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is getting some fresh steel under its wheels! New aerial and ground-level photos by @bioreconstruct on X give us an up-close look at the progress happening on one of Magic Kingdom’s most iconic coasters, and it’s safe to say this runaway mine train is getting a serious tune-up.
Related: Aerial View of Closed Rivers of America Including Liberty Belle Steamboat in Magic Kingdom
Currently closed for an extensive refurbishment, Big Thunder is in the midst of an impressive track replacement project. In the photos, sleek new black coaster rails curve around the rockwork and disappear into the mountain’s famous mine tunnel. Scaffolding surrounds the area, allowing crews access as they secure and test-fit sections of track.
Among the visible upgrades:
- Freshly installed coaster rails, gleaming black and mounted to new footers and support structures
- Scaffolding throughout the canyon area, including the iconic tunnel entrance, suggesting work on both the track and themed elements
- Newly placed rockwork and structural wood reinforcements, hinting at theming refreshes to go with the smoother ride
Related: Walt Disney World Unwraps the Magic for the 2025 Holiday Season
While Disney has not officially announced a reopening date other than in 2026, the scale of this refurbishment suggests that guests can expect a smoother, more reliable ride experience when the “wildest ride in the wilderness” returns to operation later this year.
This refurbishment comes at a pivotal moment for Frontierland, as the surrounding area prepares for a massive transformation. With the nearby Rivers of America closing to make way for a Cars-themed expansion, Big Thunder’s upgrade helps anchor the land’s future while paying homage to its rugged roots.
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