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New Magic Is Coming to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney World
Howdy, pardners! You folks oughta keep all hands, arms, feet, and legs inside the train, because this here’s the wildest ride in the wilderness—and it’s getting even wilder!
In 2026, the iconic Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen with a touch of new magic, and today, we’ve got the latest details on what to expect the next time you ride the rails.
There’s Gold in That There Mountain
The story of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad dates back to the early days of America’s first major gold rush. When a mining magnate named Barnabas T. Bullion struck gold in the Big Thunder region, he saw a future full of riches and quickly started the Big Thunder Mountain Company. However, those shiny dreams rarely come without a cost, and Bullion soon found himself in a battle with the forces of nature.
Strange and unexplainable things started happening. Machines failed, and cave-ins shut down mines. No matter how deep the miners dug into the heart of the mountain, the forces of Big Thunder fought back. When the attraction reopens next year, unsuspecting passengers who board the runaway trains will learn just how wild the wilderness can get.
Shine and Polish on a Magic Kingdom Classic
The mountain attractions at Disney Parks around the globe are beloved for the stories they tell, the thrills they give, and the memories they make. The rumblin’, rollin’ fun of Big Thunder Mountain here at Disney World is currently undergoing a “mountain-top to cavern-deep” refurbishment, meant to keep the classic attraction in top shape for years to come. Crews have been hard at work replacing the track and refreshing the ride’s scenery and vehicles.
New Magic Thunderin’ In
In addition to the action and adventure we know and love, Big Thunder Mountain will reopen with new details for fans to discover. One such moment comes when the trains rattle their way underground into spectacular natural caverns.
You’ll encounter the beautiful Rainbow Caverns, filled with phosphorescent pools that shimmer and illuminate iridescent stalagmites (the ones on the floor) and stalactites (the ones on the ceiling). But don’t let their beauty fool you—this new scene, inspired by a classic Disneyland attraction, isn’t as friendly as it first appears. That menacing rumble from deep within the mountain may just be a sign that you ain’t welcome.
There’s more new magic for guests to discover, but for now, you’ll have to hang on to your hats and stay tuned for more news!
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