Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom reopened after a sixteen month refurbishment only to find a fan favorite family missing. The opossums that hung from a tree outside the Tumbleweed town vanished during the complete retracking project. Imagineering has filed new construction permits signaling the beloved creatures will soon return to their home. Safety clearance issues during ride envelope testing caused the opossums to be removed as guests with wider wingspans could reach them. Disney representatives confirmed the little animals failed testing and are being readjusted before their return. The permit lists Icarus Exhibits as the contractor to install new set elements at the attraction. This project represents a significant investment in maintaining classic Disney experiences rather than seeking shortcuts. Fans are optimistic about the opossums returning once the adjustments are completed. The overhaul also includes new trains and extended coaster track for a smoother ride.
Key Points:
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopened after 16 months of refurbishment
- The opossum family was missing from Tumbleweed tree after reopening
- New construction permits filed for installing set elements
- Opossums failed ride envelope testing due to guest reach issues
- Icarus Exhibits is the contractor working on the installation
- The retracking project extended the coaster’s life and made it smoother
- New trains and refreshed sets were added during refurbishment
- This project represents a significant investment in classic Disney experiences