An iconic Disney attraction has a new look, and fans are split.
Related: Mickey Mouse Officially Ditching Iconic Suit in 2026
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, one of Disneyland’s most beloved attractions, recently underwent some changes that stirred a wave of reactions from its loyal fan base. After its grand reopening, guests quickly noticed the replacement of the iconic waterfall feature with a mister system. For many, this waterfall not only marked the ride’s first exhilarating drop but was also a significant part of its charm and ambiance. They often reminisced about the thrill that the cascading water would bring, enhancing their overall experience.
Fans wasted no time voicing their disappointment on social media. Comments like “Yeah I feel like this would be a downgrade, bummer,” and “Thanks, I hate it,” reflected the general sentiment among the community. While some speculated that the change might have been made for safety reasons—preventing guests from reaching out to touch the waterfall—the consensus remained that the mister lacked the same engaging atmosphere that the waterfall provided.
Big Thunder Mountain soft opened today and the twin waterfalls have been replaced with a mister
byu/TheDisneyScoopGuy inDisneyland
Related: Disney Faces Major Setback as YouTube Rejects Request
The ambiance created by attractions in theme parks often plays a crucial role in shaping one’s overall enjoyment. For many visitors, the little details, such as exciting water features, help to enhance the storytelling within a ride. While Big Thunder Mountain Railroad retained many of its classic elements during the refurbishment, the absence of the waterfall significantly altered the ride’s atmospheric charm.
Feedback from loyal Disney fans highlights a deep emotional connection to the park’s attractions. Many guests have grown up with these rides, and their nostalgia adds layers of meaning to the experiences. Removing a beloved feature can feel like a loss, transforming the innocent joy of a ride into disappointment.
While Disneyland’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has made noticeable changes, its counterpart at Walt Disney World is undergoing a much more extensive renovation. Closed for nearly a year, the ride at the Magic Kingdom is experiencing significant updates, including a new track and potential redesigns of critical scenes.
This juxtaposition of experiences raises interesting discussions among fans. Disneyland’s version may retain much of its original charm, albeit slightly altered, while Walt Disney World’s renovation may mean a complete overhaul that could inspire a fresh set of reactions from its own group of loyal fans. Anticipated reopening in 2026 with “new magic” adds an element of intrigue, leaving many wondering how these changes will be received compared to the updates at Disneyland.
As the dust settles over the latest changes to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the future of Disneyland attractions becomes a topic of speculation and discussion. Guest feedback is vital, as it not only reflects the desires of longtime fans but also sheds light on the potential influence these opinions will have on future refurbishments. The challenge Disney faces lies in balancing maintenance with the nostalgia that many fans hold dear.
