Piston Peak National Park Unveiled as Cars Land at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World has officially unveiled 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 become 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, which means the Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat will close permanently starting July 7.

Disney has shared a deeper look into the creative vision behind Piston Peak National Park, describing it as an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers, and impressive geysers. While fictional, the design of Piston Peak draws inspiration from the Rocky Mountain region and pays homage to the American Frontier and its iconic national parks.

The new area will include locations inspired by Disney and Pixar’s *Cars*, such as a visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, and scenic trails. To maintain the authenticity of a national park setting, Imagineers are using a distinct architectural style known as “Parkitecture.” Originally developed by the National Park Service, this design philosophy ensures that all structures blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

Additionally, the landscape will feature dense tree coverage separating Piston Peak from the rest of Frontierland and Liberty Square. Rugged mountain peaks will line a tranquil waterway across from Grizzly Hall, while dramatic geysers—echoing those seen on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad—will extend into the trails of the off-road rally experience.

New Cars Attractions Coming to Magic Kingdom

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This *Cars*-inspired expansion was first announced during D23 2024 and revealed to include two brand-new attractions. The first is a high-energy rally race through the mountains, where guests can “take on wild terrain as they race across the landscape climbing mountain trails, dodging geysers, and — Mater's favorite — splashing through mudholes.” The second attraction is designed with younger guests in mind but promises fun for the entire family.

At SXSW 2025, Disney Parks gave fans a sneak peek at the innovative ride vehicles being developed for the rally race attraction. Since the experience needed to reflect the personality and charm of *Cars*, Imagineers had to create something entirely new that would deliver a realistic and engaging sensation when ridden. Each vehicle features its own unique personality, name, and number—bringing the spirit of Radiator Springs to life like never before.

Magic Kingdom's Expansive Future

Piston Peak National Park represents just one piece of Magic Kingdom’s larger transformation. In the future, the park will also welcome a new land based on Disney Villains—the first ever of its kind. In the near term, guests can look forward to the debut of the Disney Starlight nighttime parade on July 20 as part of Disney World's Cool Kids Summer event, followed later this year by the opening of The Beak and Barrel, a new tavern inspired by *Pirates of the Caribbean*.