It’s been months since guests last heard the sound of runaway mine trains rumbling through Frontierland, but Disney fans are finally seeing real signs of life at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The attraction, which has been closed since January 2025 for a major refurbishment, appears to be inching closer to reopening — and a recent update has everyone talking.
Big Thunder’s Famous Goat Returns
According to reports from WDWNT, one of the goats has officially returned to Big Thunder Mountain. While this isn’t the famous Billy the Goat who clutches a stick of TNT in his mouth, it’s still a big moment for the attraction’s comeback. The goat’s return means that visible progress is being made — especially since character figures and props usually return toward the end of a refurbishment.
Guests have spotted the goat perched high on one of the mountain’s rocky peaks, looking refreshed and freshly detailed. His reappearance suggests that construction crews are finishing up touch-ups and set dressing — always a strong sign that a reopening could be just around the corner.
A Refreshed Ride Experience
Big Thunder Mountain isn’t just being cleaned up; it’s getting a serious upgrade. Disney has been replacing the coaster’s entire track and introducing an all-new opening scene to set the stage before riders board their train. While Disney hasn’t shared what that new scene will look like, the update is expected to expand on the ride’s mining-town storyline — making the attraction feel even more immersive.
WDWNT also noted that much of the mountain has been repainted with lighter brown finishes, while scaffolding and construction walls continue to come down piece by piece. This attention to detail matches what fans have come to expect from Disney refurbishments, especially when dealing with classic rides that have been around since Magic Kingdom’s early days.
Could We See an Early 2026 Return?
Right now, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is officially expected to reopen sometime in 2026 — but fans are hoping that “sometime” means early 2026. Judging by the pace of visible work and the gradual removal of construction elements, that timeline doesn’t seem too far-fetched.
When it does reopen, Big Thunder will join a wave of major updates hitting Magic Kingdom, including Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the refreshed Country Bear Musical Jamboree. Frontierland is changing fast, and the return of this fan-favorite coaster will bring some much-needed balance to the mix.
Big Thunder Mountain’s comeback is one of Disney’s most anticipated moments of 2026. And with the goat officially back in place, the wildest ride in the wilderness looks ready to roar again — sooner than anyone expected.
