Barrel Bridge returns to Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom

Mar 27, 2024 in "Tom Sawyer Island"

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Barrel bridge at Tom Sawyer Island construction - march 26 2024

Posted: Wednesday March 27, 2024 8:55am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

The long-missing Barrel Bridge has returned to Tom Sawyer Island in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom.

Barrel bridge at Tom Sawyer Island construction - march 26 2024

The bridge was removed months ago, and it started to look like it may not make a return. An all-new bridge is now in place, but it remains blocked off at both ends while work is completed.

Barrel bridge at Tom Sawyer Island construction - march 26 2024

The Barrel Bridge provides a playful and slightly challenging way to cross from one part of Tom Sawyer Island to another. It consists of a series of floating barrels connected end to end, creating a bridge that shifts and bobs under the weight of those crossing it. This movement adds a sense of adventure and requires a bit of balance to navigate, making it a favorite among children and adults alike seeking a bit of light-hearted fun.

Barrel bridge at Tom Sawyer Island construction - march 26 2024

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Erik78Aug 15, 2024

Really hope they leave it open for a year since I've got a trip booked for May and would love to go back to the island one more time. Or change their plans, which would be a lot smarter.

ToTBellHopAug 15, 2024

Glad they put this back for us to enjoy for 5 minutes.

Erik78Mar 28, 2024

So glad to see this come back. It’s unique and lighthearted fun for all ages. My kids and I missed it during our trip last August. Hope Tom Sawyer Island doesn’t change, it’s super magical as it is, and adds depth to the park. Feel like it’s the furthest you can go from the outside world.

dvitaliMar 27, 2024

while I like the island, I detest the story of Tom Swayer . Need to retire the named and southern racial overtones . Since they have not made the Tianna restaurant yet they should add the restaurant on The island and make it fine dining during the evening hours like Beauty and Beast Castle. Access to the island can be by the river boat. Entrance and pier can face the mountain while eating. New Orlean music also added

Royal Purple PigmentMar 27, 2024

This is great news. I had not gone out on the island in a while but I did in early February and was wondering what happened to the bridge. I am adding some photos of how it looked in early February 2024.

ToTBellHopMar 27, 2024

This opens right as the CFTOD lawsuits are settled. Coincidence? I think not. Clearly, the Board just wanted this back open for the children.

CaptainAmericaMar 27, 2024

Hooray, I thought for sure this was closed permanently for either liability issues or ADA compliance or some such.

Captain BarbossaMar 27, 2024

Didn’t realize the bridge was closed for a refurb to begin with. Glad it’s back. Like others have alluded to, it’s a hoot.

Captain Culpepper ClineMar 27, 2024

I absolutely love Tom Sawyer’s Island the way it is. Just keep Aunt Polly’s open. Welcome back barrel bridge! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

ToTBellHopMar 27, 2024

The hassle is why it’s quiet! I once tried to swim over to save time and was aggressively, verbally-abused by a poorly-trained CM with ridiculous lines like, “that’s dangerous! There’s a river boat coming!” and “please put your pants back on, sir!” (how else does one swim?), “please, think of the children!” and “why me?!” Needless to say, I held Iger accountable for this during a shareholder address.