Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Reopens with a Bat-tastic Upgrade Featuring Over 2,000 Bats
Things are about to get a little more… batty at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Walt Disney Imagineering has revealed a fang-tastic update coming to the iconic attraction, and it is packed with more than 2,000 bats lurking inside the Rainbow Caverns scene. Yes, you read that right… this Wildest Ride in the Wilderness is about to become the most winged ride too.
Related: More Disney World Annual Passholder Good-to-Go Days Added to April
According to Imagineers, the original cave scene only featured a handful of hanging bats, but thanks to modern scanning technology, the team was able to completely reimagine the space. Now, the cavern is filled with a mix of sculpted rockwork bats, clustered formations, and over 200 animated show set bats that bring the scene to life. Add in glowing eyes hidden deep in the cave and subtle movement effects created by fans, and suddenly the mine feels less abandoned and a lot more… occupied.
This eerie enhancement is just one part of a larger refurbishment that includes a brand-new track, updated ride vehicles, refreshed Audio-Animatronics, and sparkling new gold props scattered throughout the mountain. Disney has even lowered the ride’s height requirement thanks to the new ride system, making it more accessible for younger thrill seekers looking to strike gold.
Related: Animals Celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
The updated attraction is set to reopen on May 3, and with a new transformation effect debuting in the opening Rainbow Caverns scene, it sounds like this classic coaster is getting a fresh layer of storytelling magic. Whether you are in it for the thrills or just along for the bat sightings, this is one reopening you will not want to miss.
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.
