BREAKING: Disney lowers height requirement of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Walt Disney World has just confirmed a notable update to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom: the attraction’s height requirement has been lowered from 40 inches to 38 inches.
The change, shared via official Disney Parks social content featuring Imagineering and operations team members, comes alongside big ride improvements, though Disney emphasized it is still “the same old Big Thunder” experience.
This opens up one of Magic Kingdom’s most popular thrill rides to a wider audience, particularly younger guests and families with kids just under the previous threshold. Big Thunder now joins a small group of coasters at Walt Disney World accessible at 38 inches, making it a more flexible option for family ride lineups.
From Disney Parks Instagram
The wildest ride in the wilderness reopens on May 3, 2026.
The adjustment also signals a continued trend of incremental accessibility improvements rather than full ride reimaginings, allowing Disney to expand rider eligibility without sacrificing throughput or ride identity.
Big Thunder joins the growing lineup of classic coasters that are being revamped just in time for this summer. More details on the additional changes coming soon!
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