Piston Peak National Park Unveiled at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom in Historic Expansion

Walt Disney World has officially announced the name and more details about its upcoming *Cars*-themed land coming to Magic Kingdom Park. Set to be called Piston Peak National Park, this immersive new area will be part of what Disney describes as the “largest expansion in the history of Magic Kingdom.”

According to the Disney Parks Blog, construction on Piston Peak National Park is set to begin this summer. As a result, the Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat will close starting July 7 to make way for this exciting transformation.

The new land will transport guests into a vividly imagined wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, dramatic waterfalls, rushing rivers, and powerful geysers. While entirely fictional, Piston Peak draws inspiration from the majestic landscapes of the Rocky Mountains and the iconic imagery of America’s national parks and frontier history.

As part of the *Cars* theme, the park will feature key locations such as a visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, and scenic trails. The design philosophy embraces a unique architectural style known as “Parkitecture,” originally developed by the National Park Service to ensure that built structures blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings.

To enhance the immersive experience, Imagineers have also integrated lush tree cover between Piston Peak and the surrounding areas of Frontierland and Liberty Square. Rugged mountain peaks will rise along a tranquil waterway across from Grizzly Hall, while soaring geysers—echoing those from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad—will become a dynamic part of the landscape along the trails of the off-road rally attraction.

New Cars Attractions Coming to Magic Kingdom

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The *Cars*-inspired expansion was first revealed at D23 Expo 2024, where it was confirmed that the land would include two brand-new attractions. The first is an action-packed rally race through the rugged terrain of Piston Peak. Guests can expect an adventurous journey climbing mountain trails, dodging erupting geysers, and splashing through muddy pits—Mater’s favorite part!

The second attraction is designed with younger guests in mind but promises fun for the entire family. It will offer a gentler ride experience while still capturing the charm and humor of the *Cars* universe.

At SXSW 2025, Disney Parks unveiled the innovative ride vehicles being developed for the rally race attraction. Because no existing technology could fully capture the intended experience, Imagineers had to create something entirely new—vehicles that evoke a strong emotional response when ridden. Each car features its own distinct personality, name, and number, staying true to the spirit of the *Cars* franchise.

Expanding Magic Kingdom’s Story

Piston Peak National Park represents just one phase of Magic Kingdom’s largest expansion ever. In the future, the park will also welcome a new land themed around classic Disney Villains—the first of its kind anywhere in the world.

In the near term, guests can look forward to the debut of the **Disney Starlight nighttime parade** on July 20, part of Disney World’s Cool Kid Summer celebration. Later this year, a new *Pirates of the Caribbean*-inspired dining location, **The Beak and Barrel**, will also open its doors, adding even more magic to the already beloved park.