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Big Thunder Mountain Enters Final Testing at Magic Kingdom Ahead of May Reopening

Weighted runs are the last major step before soft openings, pointing to an early‑May return.

Overview

  • Trains have been seen cycling with water dummies and sandbags, with multiple outlets reporting Thursday sightings as Disney runs weighted tests on the rebuilt track.
  • Disney has only said the coaster will reopen in early May, and no specific date has been announced.
  • The year‑long project replaced the entire roller‑coaster track and adds new lighting, effects, and a refined backstory centered on prospector Barnabas T. Bullion.
  • A new Rainbow Caverns scene will bring glowing pools and lit stalagmites and stalactites to the underground portion of the ride.
  • Imagineers reshaped exterior rockwork to mesh with the coming Cars Piston Peak area, and new walls plus a refreshed entrance sign show queue and access prep progressing.