It’s not every day that a brand-new land takes over part of Magic Kingdom, but that’s exactly what’s happening in Frontierland.
Disney released the official concept map for Piston Peak, a Cars-themed expansion inspired by the Planes: Fire & Rescue universe, and we’ve been zooming in on every single detail. When you line it up next to the current map of Frontierland and Liberty Square, the changes are impossible to miss. Rivers have shifted, landmarks look refreshed, and it’s clear this part of the park is about to feel bigger and busier than ever. Here’s a closer look at six map updates that reveal just how much Frontierland and Liberty Square are transforming.
Piston Peak Takes Over the Island
Say goodbye to Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America as we know them. In their place rises Piston Peak National Park, a land straight out of the Cars universe. Instead of drifting around on rafts and exploring caves, you’ll be stepping into a fully themed outdoor world filled with waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and yes, racing tracks.
This change gives the area a whole new energy. Where Frontierland once felt quiet and tucked away, Piston Peak looks lively, full of motion, and completely immersive.
The River Gets a Brand-New Route
That classic Frontierland river isn’t gone — it’s just going in a new direction.
The updated layout shows the water hugging the edge of the land before winding straight into the heart of Piston Peak. This creates a seamless transition between the old and new sections of the park.
It’s not just a design choice either. This new layout opens up sightlines and gives guests some seriously pretty views. Picture rainbow geysers from Big Thunder Mountain reflecting on the water, or nighttime lights dancing across the river’s surface. It’s a huge visual upgrade.
Big Thunder Mountain Gets a Subtle Glow-Up
Don’t worry — Big Thunder Mountain Railroad isn’t going anywhere.
But even this fan-favorite coaster looks like it’s getting a few new tricks. The map (and a few hints from Disney) suggest rainbow geysers, fresh lighting, and even some thematic touches like tire tracks blending into the dirt around the mountain.
It’s not a full re-theme, just enough to tie the attraction into its new surroundings. Think of it as Frontierland’s wildest ride getting a stylish new neighbor — and dressing up a bit for the occasion.
Liberty Square’s Dock Lives On
Longtime fans might’ve worried that the old Liberty Square boat dock and barrel bridges would vanish in the overhaul, but good news, they’re sticking around.
You’ll still be able to spot them nestled among lush trees and new walking paths.
They might not be the star of the show anymore, but these classic features help the updated land keep a touch of that old-school charm.
It’s a smart move that blends nostalgia with fresh exploration — something Disney does best when they strike the right balance.
Country Bears and Tiana Stay Put
If you were worried this overhaul meant losing a few favorites, you can breathe easy. Country Bear Musical Jamboree and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure aren’t going anywhere.
Both remain as anchor attractions in Frontierland, which will give guests familiar landmarks while everything around them evolves.
It’s a clever move to keep a sense of place while still giving the area a total refresh.
Guests who loved the old Frontierland will still recognize the heart of it, even if the landscape looks brand new.
A Scenic, Walkable Frontier
One of the biggest upgrades on the map isn’t a ride at all; it’s the new walking paths. Gone are the days of dead ends and narrow trails. The new layout weaves together a network of scenic routes surrounded by waterfalls, rock formations, and greenery.
It’s going to make simply walking through this part of the park an experience in itself. The entire area feels more connected now, guiding guests naturally from Liberty Square through Frontierland and into the grand wilderness of Piston Peak. The space also feels bigger, more open, and full of storytelling potential. You can tell Disney wants this to be a showpiece area — something that ties classic Magic Kingdom nostalgia to the next era of park design.
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Everything we know about Piston Peak so far
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I’m OLD (80 next June) and I use an ECV. Will the Piston Peak Trails be available for me and other seniors?
Cautiously optimistic about this massive Disney re-think. Tiana not doing as well as it should, same with the Country bears. Holding their own but neighthor becoming a must do attraction. The old Holiday Bear show was a must do attraction in the fall/winter time period. Now they are both a skip it attraction. I hope the rest of the project is worthy of Disney and its guests. Almost every new attraction with the exception of ratatouille has not met or surpassed its attendance and merchandise goals. Too bad