Major Refurbishment: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Permit Filed

Hey Disney Vacationers! Walt Disney World’s iconic Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set for a significant update! Disney has officially filed the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad permit for a major refurbishment, promising a substantial upgrade to one of the most beloved rides in the Magic Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s going on, including details from Disney’s plans and what it means for park-goers.

What’s in the Permit?

Disney has filed a permit vaguely describing “General Construction” for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The permit is assigned to Coastal Steel Inc., a long-time partner in Disney coaster projects. This permit is set to expire on August 8, 2025, indicating that the refurbishment will be an extensive project.

Expected Timeline

Although Disney has not yet officially announced the refurbishment, sources familiar with the plans suggest that the attraction may close as soon as September 2024. The renovation is expected to be the longest in the ride’s history, with an estimated closure of over a year.

• Permit Expiry: August 8, 2025
• Expected Closure Start: September 2024
• Estimated Reopening: Late summer 2025 or early fall 2025

Scope of the Refurbishment

The Big Thunder Mountain update will involve substantial work on the ride system to ensure its longevity and continued operation. This major refurbishment is essential for the attraction, which has seen numerous short closures in recent years to keep it running smoothly.

Key Points of the Refurbishment

• Ride System Overhaul: Significant updates to the ride’s mechanical systems.
• Track Replacement: Likely replacement or major refurbishment of the track.
• New Ride Vehicles: Potential introduction of new ride vehicles for enhanced guest experience.
• Mountain Repainting: Refreshing the iconic mountain facade.
• Effects: Potentially new effects within the mountain, similar to the dynamite scene added to Disney’s Big Thunder Mountain.

Rumors point to additional work on the area around Big Thunder Mountain as “prep” for the Beyond Big Thunder Mountain expansion for the park. For more on this rumor, check out my previous article.

Historical Context

The last extensive refurbishment of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was over a decade ago, in 2012, when it closed for four months. Disneyland’s Big Thunder Mountain underwent a similar major renovation in 2012, which included new ride vehicles, track replacement, and repainting portions of the mountain itself. The upcoming refurbishment at Walt Disney World is expected to be even more extensive.

Timing and Coordination

The timing of the Big Thunder Mountain update is strategic. The refurbishment will likely begin soon after Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens on June 28 in Frontierland. This new attraction, taking over the former Splash Mountain site, will bring much-needed capacity to the park. With Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in operation, Disney can afford to close Big Thunder Mountain for the extensive refurbishment.

Important Dates

• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opening: June 28, 2024
• Big Thunder Mountain Expected Closure: September 2024

Impact on Guests

While the closure of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad for over a year may be disappointing for some, the refurbishment is crucial for the ride’s future. Guests can look forward to a refreshed and more reliable attraction once the updates are completed.

What Guests Should Know

• Check for Official Announcements: Disney has yet to officially announce the closure and refurbishment dates, so stay tuned for updates.
• Plan Accordingly: If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, keep in mind that Big Thunder Mountain may be closed from September 2024 through most of 2025 or potentially early 2026.

Key Takeaway

The Big Thunder Mountain update is set to bring significant improvements to one of Disney World’s most beloved attractions. With substantial work planned on the ride system, new ride vehicles, and a refreshed mountain facade, guests can look forward to a better experience. Keep an eye out for official announcements and plan your visits accordingly to enjoy the new and improved Big Thunder Mountain Railroad once it reopens.Stay tuned for more updates as Disney reveals more details about this exciting project!

Looking To Book Your Dream Disney Vacation?

Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!