Cars-Themed Expansion Coming to Magic Kingdom… Meet Piston Peak National Park
©Disney Parks Blog - Artist concept of the upcoming Piston Peak National Park at Magic Kingdom. © Disney/Pixar
Disney just announced a brand-new expansion coming to Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, and it’s a game-changer for fans of Pixar’s Cars and Planes: Fire & Rescue! The upcoming land, officially named Piston Peak National Park, will bring the scenic beauty and rustic charm of the animated world to life as part of the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom’s history.
What Is Piston Peak National Park?
Inspired by the fictional national park from Planes: Fire & Rescue, Piston Peak National Park will be nestled within Frontierland. This new area will feature natural landscapes, towering pines, rivers, and the iconic "Parkitecture" design that pays homage to classic National Park lodges. It’s Disney’s way of blending storytelling, adventure, and nostalgia — and fans are already buzzing with excitement.
What to Expect from the Concept Art
According to the concept art and details shared by Disney Parks Blog and others, here’s what you can expect to see inside Piston Peak National Park:
A Rally Race Ride Track: A new ride will twist and turn through the land, themed around a thrilling rally-style race inspired by the Cars universe.
Winding River Path: A river will run through the land, connecting Frontierland with the new area and adding scenic, tranquil views to the park.
Old Tankful Geyser: This erupting geyser will be a striking visual landmark near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
The Visitor’s Lodge: Featuring a classic triangular roof, this themed structure will serve as part of the queue for the new attraction and add even more charm to the land.
A New Character: Guests will meet Ranger J. Autobahn Woodlore, a brand-new Disney character inspired by classic ranger figures.
When Will It Open?
Disney has not yet announced an official opening date for Piston Peak National Park, but this expansion is part of a much larger plan that includes a new villains-themed land and other major additions to the park in the coming years. Construction will likely coincide with the closure of nearby attractions, including Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat, all of which will close permanently on July 7, 2025. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is currently close for a refurbishment and expected to reopen in 2026.
Our Take: What This Means for Families
This expansion brings a fresh, nature-meets-Disney vibe to Magic Kingdom that families are sure to love. It adds a new layer of storytelling for guests who already enjoy the thrill of Big Thunder and the immersive theming of Frontierland. Whether your kids love Lightning McQueen or just enjoy the great outdoors, this will likely be a must-visit spot when it opens.
We’ll continue to update this post as more news breaks — and if you're planning a trip to Disney in the next few years, now's the time to start thinking ahead!
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