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Big Thunder Mountain Refurbishment Permit Extended to August, Raising Reopening Uncertainty

Disney has not updated its spring 2026 target despite the paperwork change.

Overview

  • An amended construction permit now lists August 31, 2026, as the project end date, replacing the previous March 13 expiration.
  • Disney has issued no announcement of a delay, and the official website continues to cite spring 2026 for the attraction's return.
  • Coverage notes that permit extensions often serve as buffers rather than guarantees that work will run through the final date.
  • The overhaul includes a new track in what Disney calls a “mountain-top to cavern-deep” refresh, plus updated Audio-Animatronics and new gold-mining props.
  • Concept art highlights a reimagined Rainbow Caverns with phosphorescent pools, illuminated stalagmites and stalactites, and a swarm of bats.