There’s some exciting news coming out of Magic Kingdom — and if you’ve got little thrill-seekers in your crew, this one is a big deal.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set to reopen on May 3, and there’s one update that’s already getting a lot of attention: the height requirement is dropping to 38 inches, down from the previous 40-inch minimum.
That means even more kids may be able to experience one of the most iconic attractions in Frontierland. (At the time of writing, Disney’s attraction page still lists the ride as closed for refurbishment and shows the previous 40-inch height requirement, so keep an eye on official updates as reopening approaches.)
Why This Is Such a Big Deal
For a lot of families, that 2-inch difference is huge.
It may sound small, but in Disney World terms, it can mean the difference between:
- being able to ride together
- having to rider switch
- or hearing, “maybe next trip”
And if you’ve ever had a child just barely miss a height requirement, you already know this is the kind of update that can completely change a park day.
A Frontierland Favorite Is Finally Returning
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been closed for a lengthy refurbishment, and Disney has already shared that the attraction is getting “a little bit of new magic” when it returns. Disney’s official attraction page says the ride is undergoing a “mountaintop-to-cavern” refurbishment and will include a journey through the Rainbow Caverns as part of the refreshed experience.
That means guests won’t just be getting back a fan-favorite coaster — they may also notice some refreshed details and updates when it reopens.
And honestly? We love when a classic comes back with a little extra sparkle.
What This Means for Your Next Magic Kingdom Day
If your family is headed to Magic Kingdom soon, this is definitely one to watch.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is one of those rides that tends to be a huge family favorite because it hits that sweet spot:
- thrilling, but not too intense
- fun for kids and adults
- and a great “first coaster” for a lot of little riders
So if you’ve got a child who’s been waiting for their chance to ride, this reopening could be very exciting news.
A reopened Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is already exciting… but a lower height requirement? That’s the kind of Disney update a lot of families are going to be very happy about.
If this holds, more little adventurers may officially get their shot at “the wildest ride in the wilderness.”
And honestly? We love to see it.
