This week, Disney cast members removed scaffolding and construction materials surrounding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, marking the latest step in the year-long refurbishment of this iconic Frontierland attraction.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment Timeline
The closure of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad began on January 6, 2025, and construction crews soon surrounded the ride with walls and scaffolding. During the closure, significant upgrades were made to the roller coaster, including the installation of new steel tracks and the refurbishment of the ride vehicles. Disney Park guests were able to spot the arrival of new components, including freshly delivered steel track pieces, which were lifted into place with cranes.
Throughout the spring and summer months, cast members and Walt Disney Imagineers worked behind the scenes to complete the retracking process. During the fall and early winter of 2025, many Magic Kingdom Park guests were able to catch glimpses of Disney cast members testing the ride with the new components.
Last week, Walt Disney World Resort officially confirmed that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad would reopen in the spring of 2026, featuring “new magic” and a reworked Rainbow Caverns opening scene.
Latest Update: Removal of Scaffolding and Major Construction Milestone
Earlier this week, Disney construction crews reportedly removed nearly all of the scaffolding that had been erected around Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Although the construction walls still surround parts of the attraction, the removal of these temporary structures has provided guests with a clearer view of the updated ride.
At this point, crews have completed most of the heavy lifting, but testing of the new steel tracks and updated ride vehicles continues. Notably, test dummies have not yet been used, which typically signals that the attraction is nearing its final testing phase. Walt Disney World Resort guests will likely see the ride operating in full capacity once final adjustments are made in time for the 2026 reopening.
Frontierland Expansion: The Transformation Continues
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad’s renovation is just one part of Walt Disney World Resort’s larger vision for Frontierland. Magic Kingdom Park is undergoing its biggest expansion yet, with several projects underway to transform the area. One major development is the creation of Piston Peak National Park, a Cars (2006)-themed addition to Frontierland inspired by America’s national parks. This new area will feature two attractions and scenic landscapes designed to immerse guests in the world of Cars.
Additionally, plans are already in motion for a Disney Villains land, which will expand the Magic Kingdom “beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.” While details about the new land are scarce, it is expected to include a range of attractions, dining experiences, and themed entertainment.
Due to the ongoing construction, the Walt Disney World Railroad is currently operating in shuttle mode between Fantasyland and Main Street, U.S.A., as the Frontierland station is temporarily closed during the expansion. Take a look at the work from above in this video from X (formerly Twitter) user @bioreconstruct:
Aerial video of construction in Magic Kingdom.
Former Tom Sawyer Island near Frontierland will be Piston Peak National Park.
Larger former island next to Big Thunder Mountain and beyond to be Villains land.
Also seen are construction staging areas near roads.
Aerial video of construction in Magic Kingdom.
Former Tom Sawyer Island near Frontierland will be Piston Peak National Park.
Larger former island next to Big Thunder Mountain and beyond to be Villains land.
Also seen are construction staging areas near roads. pic.twitter.com/Fjz8JD69kr— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) December 1, 2025
Walt Disney World Resort has announced an opening timeline for Piston Peak National Park, or the Disney Villains land at the Magic Kingdom. The refreshed Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set to debut sometime in the spring of 2026. Keep up with Disney Dining for updates on these and other projects at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
Has construction impacted your visit to Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Share your story with Disney Dining in the comments.
