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New Permit Filed for Big Thunder Mountain
Walt Disney Imagineering has signaled the continuation of a major project for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom by filing a new Notice of Commencement. With Coastal Steel Inc. listed as the contractor and the scope defined as general construction, this is the third filing for what is shaping up to be the most extensive refurbishment the classic attraction has received since it debuted in 1980.
Related – Big Thunder Mountain’s Description Changes as Disney Removes Dynamite Reference
Despite the project nearing its final phases, the latest Notice of Commencement filed for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad confirms that general construction work remains active. The continued involvement of Coastal Steel suggests that additional structural work is still underway, even as the attraction begins its transition toward systems testing and final detailing in the refurbishment timeline.
In a major step forward toward reopening, the refurbishment project has reached a critical milestone: ride system testing is now underway! A newly refurbished train has been spotted cycling the track, allowing Imagineers to focus on validating essential elements like safety systems, braking, lift hill mechanics, and overall train dynamics across the updated track layout.
While visible progress and ride testing are underway, Disney has not yet set an official reopening date for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, though a return in 2026 remains the official timeline. However, recent permit filings valid through April 2026 suggest work may extend well into next year.
When the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” finally returns, guests will once again be caught in the turbulent gold rush saga of Barnabas T. Bullion, whose mining efforts caused the mountain itself to rebel. Among the most exciting new additions, riders will be thrust into a mysterious underground scene—a cavern glowing with phosphorescent pools and shimmering with iridescent stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing the mountain’s unpredictable power.
The new underground scene pays homage to Disneyland’s classic Rainbow Caverns from the Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland attraction, blending nostalgic visual effects with modern storytelling. While guests may initially be enchanted by the glowing, peaceful appearance of the caverns, Disney teases that a “menacing rumble” deep inside is a warning: the mountain itself is making it clear that riders are not entirely welcome in this seemingly beautiful, but dangerous, space.
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