It’s back!
Related: Disney Park Quietly Closes Opening Day Attraction For Years
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad holds a crucial place in Disneyland‘s history. Since its opening in 1979, it has delighted countless visitors with its thrilling ride experience. As one of the park’s most iconic attractions, it combines elements of adventure, humor, and nostalgia. Guests are whisked away on a wild ride through a fictional mining town set in the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest.
Compared to other Disney attractions, such as the Haunted Mansion or Pirates of the Caribbean, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad offers a unique blend of excitement and theming. While dark rides immerse guests in elaborate stories, this roller coaster showcases the beauty of the environment while delivering high-speed thrills.
One of the standout elements of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is undoubtedly the waterfall feature. Situated near the beginning of the ride, the waterfall marks the first significant drop, adding an exhilarating visual and auditory experience. This element contributes significantly to the ride’s overall theme and ambiance, creating an exciting moment that sets the tone for the rest of the journey.
When the waterfall was temporarily removed, replaced by misters, the impact was immediately felt by fans. Many expressed their disappointment, arguing that the misters simply did not have the same effect as the waterfall. Social media was abuzz with reactions as fans took to platforms like Twitter and Reddit to voice their concerns. For a ride that thrives on the experience of adventure, the absence of such a beloved feature felt like a significant loss to many regular visitors and infrequent guests alike.
The Return of the Waterfall
Excitement bubbled over when the announcement came that the iconic waterfall would be returning to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The news quickly spread across social media, igniting a wave of anticipation among Disneyland enthusiasts. Fans were eager to experience the ride’s beloved feature once more, eagerly awaiting the return of the thrilling splash as they plummeted down the first drop.
Visual evidence shared by park visitors confirmed the revitalization of the waterfall. One user, Travel_Glad, shared a captivating photo on Reddit, showcasing the waterfall back in action. The delight expressed in comments punctuated the collective relief and joy of fans. “Well…Alrighty then, Color me pleasantly surprised,” commented one thrilled guest, while another remarked, “I knew it!!! I was watching the videos and wondering if the misters were meant to represent the mist from the waterfalls.” These reactions captured the happy moment many felt upon witnessing the return of such a treasured aspect of the ride.
The future of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World holds many exciting possibilities. Disneyland’s beloved attraction is undergoing regular updates, allowing for continual improvements and maintenance that keep the ride fresh. Meanwhile, renovations are underway for the Magic Kingdom version of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Walt Disney World, which is currently closed for enhancements. Scheduled to reopen in 2026, guests can expect significant improvements to elements of the track and show scenes.
