Disney has announced that Walt Disney World's upcoming Cars-themed land will be named Piston Peak National Park, marking the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom's history.
According to the Disney Parks Blog, construction on Piston Peak National Park begins this summer, requiring temporary closures of the Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and Liberty Square Riverboat starting July 7.
An Immersive Frontierland Experience
Disney has revealed details about this new Frontierland addition:
"Envision a breathtaking wilderness with towering evergreens, snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, rushing rivers, and steaming geysers," Disney describes. "While fictional, Piston Peak draws inspiration from Rocky Mountain landscapes and America's frontier-era national parks."
The area will feature Cars-inspired locations like a visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, and scenic trails. Disney Imagineers are employing authentic "Parkitecture" - an architectural style originally developed by the National Park Service to blend structures with natural surroundings.
Strategic landscaping with dense trees will create natural borders between Piston Peak and neighboring areas. The design incorporates dramatic mountain peaks near Grizzly Hall and special geyser effects extending from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad into new trail areas.
Concept Art for New Cars Attractions
View 3 Images
Two New Rides Coming to Piston Peak
Originally announced at D23 2024, the area will feature two new attractions. The first offers adventurous off-road rally racing through mountain terrain, complete with geysers and mud pits. The second provides family-friendly entertainment suitable for younger guests.
At SXSW 2025, Disney showcased innovative ride vehicles for the rally attraction, each with unique personalities, names, and numbers - staying true to the Cars franchise spirit.
Part of Magic Kingdom's Major Expansion
Piston Peak National Park represents just one phase of Magic Kingdom's transformation, eventually to be joined by the park's first Villains-themed land. Meanwhile, guests can anticipate the debut of the Starlight nighttime parade on July 20 and a Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired tavern, The Beak and Barrel, later this year.
