Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Reopens After 16‑Month Rebuild Despite Brief Opening‑Day Fire

The overhaul ushers in a smoother ride that is drawing heavy demand.

Overview

  • The mine‑train coaster, which reopened Sunday, now runs on a fully replaced track with new trains, restored effects, and expanded show scenes.
  • Lightning Lane, Disney’s line‑reservation system, sold out early Sunday and standby waits topped two hours as crowds flooded Frontierland.
  • A small load‑area fire around 5:45 p.m. Sunday prompted a cast member to use a fire extinguisher on the track, and the ride closed with no reported injuries.
  • Following Monday morning downtime, the attraction reopened later with about a 45‑minute wait, and Disney has not explained the cause of the incident.
  • Disney permanently lowered the minimum height to 38 inches, allowing more young children to ride and changing how families plan their day.