Work Begins Near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Ahead of the Attraction’s Year-Long Refurbishment
Just two weeks after Walt Disney World announced that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad would be closing for a year-long refurbishment (and days after they filed a new permit), work near the Magic Kingdom attraction is already underway.
When visiting Frontierland this morning, we took a trip on the Walt Disney World Railroad and were able to get a glimpse at the construction being done in the area.
While a scrim currently blocks the view of the construction area near Thunder Mountain from the railroad, we could see at least one excavator in place.
Other parts of the attraction remain visible. Clearly, the current work is contained in its scope.
It should be noted that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will continue operating as usual until January 6, 2025. At that time, the attraction will close, and construction will begin in earnest.
What Is the Refurbishment For?
Although we know that the fan-favorite Magic Kingdom attraction will be closed until 2026, Disney has yet to give details on the planned refurbishment.


Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
The prevailing theory, however, is that the Disney World version of Thunder Mountain will get the long-awaited dynamite effect used in other versions of the attraction around the world. Based on the extended timeline of the refurbishment, it is clear that Disney is doing more than a standard refresh.
For now, guests can enjoy the current iteration of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad for a couple of months until the big refurbishment arrives.


Credit: Disney
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