Closer Look at Big Thunder Railroad Construction for May 2025

Closer Look at Big Thunder Railroad Construction

For devoted fans of Magic Kingdom’s wildest ride in the wilderness, the extended closure of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has undoubtedly left a void in their park experience. Since its closure on January 6, 2025, anticipation has been building for the return of this beloved Frontierland attraction. While Disney has targeted a 2026 reopening, recent observations and permit updates offer a closer look at the progress and potential timeline for this extensive refurbishment.

Related-New Permit Suggests Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment Extended

Visible Progress and Key Updates:

Despite the lack of a precise reopening date, there have been notable developments in the construction process as we move into May 2025:

• Track Work: Significant work continues on replacing the roller coaster track. Recent reports indicate that the new lift hill has been installed, a crucial element of the ride’s layout. Additionally, new sections of track are being connected throughout the ride, both within the mountain structure and in the outdoor areas. This extensive track replacement suggests a comprehensive overhaul aimed at ensuring the ride’s longevity and potentially a smoother experience.
• Queue Area Modifications: The queue area has seen considerable activity, with large portions now covered by protective tarps. While the exact nature of the work underneath remains unseen, this could indicate structural updates, cosmetic enhancements, or a combination of both.

Related-Closer Look at the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment at Disney World

• Theming Elements: Scaffolding has been erected around various structures in the town of Tumbleweed, including the water tower, windmill, Gold Dust Saloon, and Dry Goods store. This suggests that the thematic elements of the ride are also undergoing refurbishment, potentially involving repainting, repairs, or the installation of new details. Notably, the windmill’s top appears to have been turned, and scaffolding has been placed around a faux tree where branches and “possums” were previously removed.
• Tunnel Work: Within the ride’s tunnels, a hexagonal framework has been observed in one, while a tunnel of scaffolding now reaches up to the bighorn sheep figure on a ridge. This could indicate work on show scenes, special effects, or structural maintenance within these enclosed spaces. The bighorn sheep itself might be removed for off-site refurbishment.

Permit Updates and Timeline Considerations:

Recent permit filings offer further insight into the potential duration of the refurbishment:

• A new permit filed by Walt Disney World extends the expiration date to April 15, 2026. While a permit’s expiration date doesn’t always directly correlate with the reopening of an attraction, it provides an indication of the anticipated timeframe for the construction work. This extension suggests that the project might take longer than initially anticipated or allows for flexibility in the schedule.
• The contractor listed on the latest permit is DPR Construction, consistent with earlier filings. The scope of work is described broadly as “General Construction,” indicating that they are involved in the overall refurbishment efforts.

Looking Ahead:

With the new lift hill and significant track segments reportedly in place, the focus of the construction is likely to remain on completing the ride path, integrating show elements, and continuing both structural and thematic work. Disney has stated that the reimagined Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen in 2026 with “a little bit of new magic,” leaving fans eager to discover what enhancements await.

While the extended closure is disappointing for parkgoers in the short term, this extensive refurbishment promises to revitalize a classic attraction, ensuring that it continues to thrill guests for years to come. As May 2025 progresses, eagle-eyed visitors might catch further glimpses of the transformation taking place within the mountain, fueling the anticipation for its eventual return to the Magic Kingdom skyline.

For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!

Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.

Click Here for your FREE No Obligation Quote.