Walt Disney World Resort has removed Lightning Lane touchpoints at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom Park, just days after their installation, as the attraction's major refurbishment nears completion ahead of its May 3, 2026 reopening.
On April 20, 2026, guests spotted crews dismantling the Lightning Lane scanners near the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad entrance in Frontierland. BlogMickey.com shared photos of the removal, which occurred shortly after the touchpoints were added earlier in the month. Walt Disney World has not explained the change or provided a reinstallation timeline, but the entrances are expected to return before the ride's debut on May 3, 2026.
The 'Wildest Ride in the Wilderness' has been closed since January 2025 for extensive upgrades, including new steel tracks, refreshed vehicles, and enhancements to the Rainbow Caverns scene. With final testing underway and construction wrapping up, the queue areas are receiving finishing touches.
Disney has confirmed the reopening date, and heavy crowds are anticipated on opening day. The ride is expected to be a Tier 1 option for Lightning Lane Multi Pass bookings, available starting April 26, 2026, for resort guests.
