Rule Change Hits Popular Magic Kingdom Ride Tomorrow

One of Disney World’s most iconic rides is about to return from a LONG refurbishment, with some major changes.

Whee!

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the historic attraction that has dominated the Frontierland skyline for over 40 years, has been closed for refurbishment since January 2025. That’s finally set to end tomorrow, May 3rd! However, the version of Big Thunder that reopens tomorrow is going to be quite different than the one that closed a year and a half ago.

Upon reopening, the legendary E-Ticket coaster will feature updated tracks and trains that will “preserve the attraction’s classic storytelling and trademark hootin’ an’ hollerin’ energy” while improving the ride experience.

View this post on Instagram

These changes — and a “comprehensive review from their safety teams” — have even led to a major rule change, as Disney has lowered the ride’s height requirement from 40 inches to 38 inches, which will allow younger riders to experience the attraction even earlier in life.

The new ride vehicles!

In addition, the ride will also feature a new “rainbow caverns” sequence as a tribute to the rainbow caverns that once found a home in both the Rainbow Caverns Mine Train and its successor, the Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland at Disneyland.

©Disney

Upon reopening, Big Thunder will be added to the Magic Kingdom’s Tier 1 Multi Pass options, joining The Jungle Cruise, Space Mountain, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and Peter Pan’s Flight. However, the ride will NOT be offered as part of Early Entry at the Magic Kingdom, as that hotel guest perk will remain available only in Tomorrowland and Fantasyland for now.

Magic Kingdom Early Entry

The reopening of Big Thunder is the first step in the transformation of Frontierland, which is also building towards the opening of the now under-construction Cars-themed Piston Peak sub-land.

Piston Peak construction

A NEW and seemingly improved version of Big Thunder Mountain is reopening at the Magic Kingdom tomorrow! Stay tuned to DFB for further coverage of the ride’s opening.

5 Magic Kingdom Secrets Disney Doesn’t Want You to Know

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Are you excited for the new Big Thunder? Let us know in the comments below.