RIP Original Frontierland: Disney Reveals New Look for Magic Kingdom Attraction
Magic Kingdom Park’s Frontierland is undergoing a transformation, and the iconic Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is at the heart of the changes. After 44 years of thrills, Walt Disney World Resort has officially removed the original steam train from the beloved attraction, with a brand-new version slated to debut in 2026.
In January, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closed for a lengthy refurbishment, with the new and improved attraction set to reopen in 2026. While Disney remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the updates, eagle-eyed fans quickly spotted signs of change, including the delivery of new steel tracks to Magic Kingdom Park. Crews have since been busy replacing the old rails and repainting much of the ride set, including the functional town of Tumbleweed. Much of the attraction’s exterior remains surrounded by scaffolding.
Last week, Disney Park guests spotted the return of the Big Thunder Mountain steam train. Post-makeover, the engine’s design appears to be the same, with a fresh coat of paint and darker wooden cars. Check out this video from X (formerly Twitter) user @disneytiktok:
Here at the Magic Kingdom over at Big Thunder Mountain, the team are prepping the new ride vehicles for their first pull through 🚂
Here at the Magic Kingdom over at Big Thunder Mountain, the team are prepping the new ride vehicles for their first pull through 🚂 pic.twitter.com/S9vxEpQU6e
— DisneyWorldTom (@disneytiktok) June 21, 2025
According to WDWNT, Walt Disney Imagineering has yet to test the new train on the revamped tracks, but clearance testing is already underway near one of the ride’s tunnels.
Beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad isn’t the only Magic Kingdom Park attraction undergoing a major overhaul. As part of an extensive reimagining of Frontierland, Disney is also preparing to close the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island next month. Both are being removed to make room for Piston Peak National Park, inspired by Disney’s Cars (2006). The area will feature two all-new attractions.
But that’s not all—Walt Disney Imagineers are also working on an entirely new Disney Villains land, which will sit “beyond Big Thunder Mountain.” This new land will bring fresh, thrilling attractions, as well as dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences that are sure to leave an impression. A grand opening date for Piston Peak and the Disney Villains land has yet to be announced.
What “new magic” do you hope to see on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad? Let Disney Dining know in the comments!
