US EditionDisney World's Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Reopening Date Set
Disney says the ride will return with new track, refreshed trains and theme updates, while the height requirement drops to 38 inches.
- On May 3, 2026, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen at Magic Kingdom following a lengthy refurbishment, Walt Disney World announced.
- The roller coaster closed in early 2025 for a "mountaintop-to-cavern refurbishment," during which Disney replaced the rails and refreshed the passenger trains.
- Riders will traverse a "beautiful" yet "menacing" Rainbow Cavern with new visual effects, retaining the classic "wildest ride in the wilderness" experience.
- Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle confirmed the height requirement decreased from 40 inches to 38 inches, allowing more families to enjoy the attraction together.
- Recent park updates include the refreshed Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin in Tomorrowland, while the area remains a focal point for future development.
17 Articles
17 Articles
How did Disney Lower The Big Thunder Mountain Height Requirement?
Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set to reopen May 3, 2026, after being closed since January of last year with a lower height requirement. Upon reopening,younger guests will be able to ride the refurbished track as the minimum height requirement has lowered from 40 inches to 38 inches. Disney has claimed they’ve completed “a comprehensive review from our safety teams” following the refurbishment. However, what do these changes li…
Disney Shares Sneak Peek of New, Improved Big Thunder Mountain Railroad After More than 1-Year Closure
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney World's Magic Kingdom reopens May 3 after extensive renovations that began in January 2025. Updates include a new track, new vehicles, and a lowered height requirement from 40 to 38 inches.
Orlando Sentinel
Greater Milwaukee TodayDisney World: Big Thunder Mountain back next month
The Frontierland roller coaster has been closed since January 2025. It will reopen will a new height requirement.
Disney Changes Accessibility System for Big Thunder Mountain Coaster
Something big just shifted at Magic Kingdom—and it’s the kind of update that doesn’t just affect thrill seekers, but entire families planning their day in the park. After a lengthy refurbishment, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is officially set to reopen on May 3, 2026. That alone is exciting news for fans of one of Disney’s most iconic coasters. But what’s really getting people talking isn’t just the reopening—it’s what changed behind the scenes…
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