The landscape of Magic Kingdom is about to change in a big way. Disney has confirmed that Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat will permanently close on July 7, 2025. This closure will clear the way for the arrival of Piston Peak National Park—a brand-new land inspired by Disney and Pixar’s Cars universe.
A New Chapter for Frontierland
Since Magic Kingdom’s earliest days, guests have journeyed through American history in Liberty Square and Frontierland. The path begins in colonial New York, travels to the North Woods for a bear-filled concert, rolls through Splash Mountain, I mean Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and finishes among the red rocks of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Now, that path continues. Piston Peak National Park brings a fresh chapter to the park’s storytelling legacy and marks the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history.
What to Expect at Piston Peak National Park
This new area brings national park scenery to life through the lens of Cars. Guests can expect:
- Towering trees, rocky peaks, waterfalls, rivers, and active geysers
- A visitor lodge and Ranger HQ nestled within the landscape
- Scenic trails for exploring and relaxing
- A high-energy off-road rally race attraction
To maintain harmony with the environment, Imagineers are using “Parkitecture“—a design style created by the National Park Service that helps structures blend naturally into the surroundings.
Nature Meets Pixar at Magic Kingdom
Guests visiting Grizzly Hall will soon see distant geysers and rising mountains where Rivers of America once flowed. Trees and terrain will shield views between lands, helping preserve the visual story. The transition between Liberty Square and Frontierland will remain smooth and immersive.
Major Closures Start July 7, 2025
Construction on Piston Peak National Park begins this summer. As a result, Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat will close permanently on July 7, 2025. These classic attractions have been guest favorites for decades, and their closure marks a major turning point for the park.
In addition, Disney Imagineers are building a Villains-themed land beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This twisted new area will include two attractions, dining experiences, and themed shops, making this expansion the boldest in the park’s history.
The closure of Rivers of America signals the end of a nostalgic era and the beginning of something entirely new. With Piston Peak National Park on the horizon, guests can look forward to thrilling Pixar storytelling, dramatic landscapes, and immersive design. Stay tuned for updates as the transformation begins.
