The day has come to say goodbye to one of Disneyland Resort’s most iconic attractions: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. As of September 2, 2025, the beloved roller coaster is officially closed for an indefinite period, marking the end of its 46-year run at Disneyland Park–for now.
The closure of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad follows weeks of speculation and anticipation, as Disney first announced the indefinite refurbishment in August. At the time of its closure, Disneyland Resort hadn’t revealed an exact reopening date for the ride. Disney Park guests are left wondering when they’ll be able to experience “The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” once again.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad first opened in Frontierland at Disneyland Park on September 2, 1979, exactly 46 years ago. “The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” featured several homages to the attraction it replaced, Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland, including the fictional town of Rainbow Ridge. Versions of the attraction later appeared at Disney parks worldwide, including Walt Disney World Resort, Tokyo Disney Resort, and Disneyland Paris Resort.
Disneyland Park’s version of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has undergone several standard refurbishments in recent years, but it hasn’t had a major overhaul since the early 2010s. Between January 2013 and March 2014, Disneyland Resort replaced the ride’s entire tracks and updated several special effects.
Disneyland Resort hasn’t hinted that the ongoing refurbishment will be nearly as extensive. However, the official website lists the roller coaster as closed through at least October 14, 2025 (as far as the operational calendar currently goes). It encourages Disney Park guests to “check back here for updates.”
Interestingly, the Disneyland Park closure comes on the heels of changes on Walt Disney World Resort’s version of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The Magic Kingdom Park ride closed in January for a complete track replacement, queue updates, and extensive refurbishments. The roller coaster will reopen with “new magic” in early 2026.
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