Disneyland Fans Rejoice Days After On-Ride Controversy Blows Up Online

Maybe we all overreacted.

Guests riding on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland — Credit: Disney

Guests have a near-endless amount of rides, attractions, shows, and other experiences to enjoy during their Disney vacation, though a few stand above the rest. Rides like Haunted Mansion, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Pirates of the Caribbean have been bringing travelers to the parks for decades.

While dark rides are an essential part of the Disney puzzle, roller coasters like Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain, and Incredicoaster pack a punch for those seeking more intense experiences.

Perhaps Disney’s most iconic and famous roller coaster is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Opened in 1979, this classic coaster has been dishing up thrills and chills for decades, becoming a quintessential part of the original Disneyland Park. The ride went out of commission for a brief time this year, but has since reopened.

However, when Big Thunder first returned, guests noticed one key feature was missing: water.

The artificial waterfall has long been one of the most iconic parts of the coaster, marking the first true drop of the ride. The water feature is present in multiple versions of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and while it never really gets riders wet, it adds a lot to the attraction’s ambiance.

The waterfall was replaced by misters, resulting in the disappointment of many fans, who shared their feelings online.

However, the waterfall has since returned. Reddit user Travel_Glad shared a photo they took on the ride, showing off the waterfall back in action.

Waterfalls working on Thunder Mountain!!
byu/Travel_Glad inDisneyland

“Well…Alrighty then, Color me pleasantly surprised,” said one user.

“Ha I knew it!!! I was watching the videos and wondering if the misters were meant to represent well the mist from waterfalls,” said another.

Work continues on Walt Disney World’s version of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, which closed for a lengthy refurbishment this January. The Florida version of the ride is receiving major touchups to its track and actual show scenes.

The ride’s absence has certainly been felt, as the Wild West-themed roller coaster is not just one of the most popular rides at Magic Kingdom, but in all of Walt Disney World.

Disney teased these changes earlier this summer, sharing concept art that seemingly confirmed the first cavern scene, as well as the final drop, will look totally different once all is said and done.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set to reopen at Walt Disney World in 2026.

What is your favorite Disney roller coaster?