Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.
Disney Shares Behind the Scenes Moment for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Frontierland’s landscape is about to get a lot more thunderous. Ahead of the highly anticipated reopening of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad this spring, Walt Disney World has pulled back the curtain on a massive, multi-team effort to refresh and rebuild the beloved “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness.”
From Imagineers to technology experts, the project represents one of the most significant overhauls in the attraction’s history.
Related-Scaffolding Finally Removed from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the Magic Kingdom
A “Golden” Milestone
In a nod to American railroad history, Disney teams recently gathered to celebrate the completion of the new steel track with a symbolic “Golden Spike” ceremony. Rather than a traditional spike, teams installed golden bolts into the final piece of track, marking the end of a grueling installation phase and the beginning of the home stretch toward reopening.
The ceremony served as a bridge between the attraction’s storied past and its high-tech future. For many involved, the project is more than just construction—it’s stewardship. “This project represents what being a Cast Member is all about—protecting a legacy while preparing it for the future,” says Stephen Murphy, Senior Project Manager. “I take pride knowing our work will keep this tradition alive for generations to come.”
Related-New Construction Permit Filed for Big Thunder Mountain in the Magic Kingdom
The Scope of the Rebuild
While fans may recognize the familiar red rock buttes of the flooded mining town of Tumbleweed, much of what lies beneath has been completely reimagined. The project included:
- Total Track Replacement: A complete roller coaster track rebuild to ensure a smoother, more reliable experience.
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration: A massive effort involving construction crews, Imagineers, engineers, and tech experts.
- Fleet Refresh: The introduction of all-new ride vehicles, which are currently undergoing rigorous testing.
A Labor of Love
For the team members on the ground, seeing the “Golden Spike” set into place was the culmination of years of dreaming. For Nicholas Roedl, Staff Project Engineer, the project was the realization of a lifelong goal.
“Growing up, I always wanted to build roller coasters,” Roedl shared. “This was my first chance to do it—and it felt like fulfilling a childhood dream.”
Emily York, Associate Project Manager, echoed that sentiment, noting the emotional impact of seeing the mountain come back to life. “Watching the first vehicle roll onto the new track was surreal. This project has been a true labor of love.”
Looking Ahead to Spring
As Walt Disney World continues to expand with new lands and experiences, the refurbishment of Big Thunder Mountain highlights Disney’s commitment to keeping its “Classics” fresh. The goal is to ensure that when the gates swing open this spring, the attraction feels exactly as guests remember it—only better.
Wesley Kashula, Program Field Representative, summed up the team’s hopes for the reopening: “It takes an army to achieve something of this scale. My hope is that Guests feel the same excitement and joy they’ve always associated with Big Thunder—only elevated.”
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is scheduled to welcome guests back to Frontierland this Spring.
Get all the best Disney News
and more, straight to your inbox!
We don't spam. Read our privacy policy for more info.
For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
Let our friends at Get Away Today help you book your next Disney or Universal Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
