If you thought Disney would keep at least a piece of the Old West alive in Frontierland, a new planning map just flipped that idea on its head.
The map, shared by theme park insiders, reveals a dramatically different story than most fans expected. Frontierland’s transformation is more than just a retheme—it’s a full-blown reinvention. And judging by what’s coming, the days of cowboy boots and paddleboats are truly behind us.
A Wilderness Reimagined Through Pixar
Instead of cowboys and pioneers, the new concept centers around a land called Piston Peak, pulled straight from Planes: Fire & Rescue (2014). That might seem like a curveball, but the logic behind it actually fits. The new theme leans into America’s national park identity—think pine trees, ranger stations, and sweeping vistas. It’s still “adventurous,” just with a modern, Pixar-branded flair.
The area will feature two new attractions: a high-speed off-road rally ride and a more relaxed, family-friendly adventure. Both will depart from uniquely themed lodges designed with the Cars universe in mind. Think wide entrances for vehicles, quirky decor, and design details that cater to car-sized guests.
A New Mission Statement
What really shook fans was the thematic focus revealed in the planning documents: “chasing your dream in the American wilderness and writing your own folktale.” That’s a long way from saloons and gold mines. And while it sounds poetic, it marks a dramatic departure from the themes that defined Frontierland for over 50 years.
This isn’t about westward expansion or historical legends anymore—it’s about reimagined storytelling in a stylized wilderness. The old narrative is being rewritten entirely.
Major Closures Confirm the Shift
Tom Sawyer Island, Rivers of America, and the Liberty Square Riverboat are all shutting down permanently after July 6. These closures aren’t just ride changes—they erase the heart of what many considered “classic” Frontierland. These were the places where you could escape the hustle of the park and enjoy a slower, simpler atmosphere.
Without them, that entire corner of Magic Kingdom takes on a very different feel.
Will Anything Survive the Overhaul?
So far, Big Thunder Mountain and the Country Bear Jamboree (now with an updated musical setlist) are safe. But there’s a growing sense that these holdovers could eventually be rethemed too. If this new land succeeds, the remaining pieces of old Frontierland might not be around much longer.
The map doesn’t just tease a new area—it hints at a new philosophy.
Fans Are Divided
Some guests are thrilled about the change. It’s colorful, it’s fast-paced, and it’s tied to a beloved Pixar universe. But others are mourning what’s being lost. Frontierland wasn’t just about the rides—it was about the quiet corners, the rustic charm, and a nod to American folklore.
With this new direction, those elements are vanishing. And this map? It made that reality impossible to ignore.
