Big changes are coming to one of Magic Kingdom Park’s most iconic attractions! After decades of bringing guests through the wild frontier, the original steam train of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been removed, with a new version set to debut in 2026.
In late 2024, Walt Disney World Resort announced that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad would close for a lengthy refurbishment in January, with a promised reopening in 2026. Disney kept most project details under wraps, only sharing that the coaster would debut “new magic” when it reopened. However, guests have gotten a bird’s-eye view of the construction over the past few months.
Refurbishment Details
The first clues about the scope of the renovation came when new tracks were spotted being delivered to the Magic Kingdom. Flatbed trucks arrived carrying the steel, and a crane was seen lowering the new rails into place.
The coaster’s main structure remains intact. However, scaffolding still surrounds much of the Frontierland attraction’s exterior as crews repaint rocks, queue areas, and the fictional town of Tumbleweed.
The Return of the Big Thunder Mountain Steam Train
Perhaps the most exciting part of the refurbishment so far is the return of the Big Thunder Mountain steam train. Although the new engine design appears similar to the original, it’s been given a fresh coat of paint, and the wooden cars are now a darker finish.
According to WDWNT, Walt Disney Imagineering has not yet tested the train on the new tracks, but clearance testing is currently underway near one of the ride’s tunnels. @disneytiktok shared this video of the new train on X (formerly Twitter):
Here at the Magic Kingdom over at Big Thunder Mountain, the team are prepping the new ride vehicles for their first pull through 🚂
Here at the Magic Kingdom over at Big Thunder Mountain, the team are prepping the new ride vehicles for their first pull through 🚂 pic.twitter.com/S9vxEpQU6e
— DisneyWorldTom (@disneytiktok) June 21, 2025
What’s Next for Magic Kingdom Park?
The refurbishment of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is just one of many upcoming changes for the Magic Kingdom. As part of an overhaul of Frontierland, Disney is also preparing to close two beloved attractions next month: the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island. These closures will make way for the creation of Piston Peak National Park, a Cars (2006)-inspired area that will feature two brand-new attractions.
Additionally, Walt Disney Imagineers are working hard on a new Disney Villains land, expanding Magic Kingdom Park “beyond Big Thunder Mountain.” This area will feature new attractions, dining experiences, entertainment, and merchandise locations. No exact dates have been given for the opening of Piston Peak National Park or the Disney Villains land.
Do any other Walt Disney World Resort attractions need lengthy refurbishments like this one? Share your opinion with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
