Photos: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Track Replacement

Written by Joshua Posted May 16th, 2025

The wildest ride in the wilderness is going to feel a little less wild in 2026. And my brain appreciates that. Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, currently closed for a major refurbishment, is getting a track upgrade. During a recent visit, I photographed crews installing a track segment while sailing on the Liberty Belle.

Track being lowered to awaiting Big Thunder Mountain Railroad crews

I hadn’t planned on a riverboat cruise that afternoon. Instead, I wanted to visit McKim’s Mile House for the first time. But there were 28 parties in front of me. As I dejectedly walked away from the new DVC lounge, I spotted Big Thunder’s crane lowering a track section into place. So I hurried to the Liberty Belle entrance, hoping for an opportunity to get some installation photos.

As our boat rounded the corner, I realized how lucky I was. Crews were maneuvering the track piece into the tunnel that comes immediately after the Rivers of America curve. They were using a series of hoists to get it into place, a slow process. The crane operator was an expert. The crews were patient. They even took time to wave at us.

Crews installing Big Thunder Mountain Railroad track next to Rivers of America

Crews using hoists to maneuver a piece of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad track into place

The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad refurbishment is scheduled to last until early 2026. In addition to the new track, we expect the updated ride will include the demolition scene added to Disneyland’s coaster back in 2012.