Disney recently announced that installation work has begun on several new scenes along the Rivers of the Far West in Frontierland.
These additions were originally announced back in April 2025. After a period of silence, Disneyland Paris confirmed at the end of 2025 that the new scenes would finally arrive during the summer of 2026.
Guests will be able to spot these new additions while enjoying a relaxing cruise aboard the iconic Molly Brown riverboat as part of the Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing attraction.
When Disneyland Paris first announced the start of the installation work, the new deer scene near the waterfall had largely already been completed. Since then, several additional scenes have appeared, including buffalo and prairie dogs along the riverbanks.
The new figures are static decorations and do not feature movement or sound effects.
During our latest visit, we also noticed a new decorative floating log being installed along the route. This scene will eventually be home to raccoons and a skunk.
As part of the project, Joe the Fisherman and his dog have temporarily disappeared from the Rivers of the Far West while refurbishment work takes place.
Because most of the installation work is taking place overnight, Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing remains open to guests throughout the project.
It’s nice to see Disneyland Paris investing in new details and storytelling around the Rivers of the Far West. The attraction has always been a relaxing way to escape the crowds, especially during the summer months. The 20-minute cruise offers beautiful views of Frontierland and some unique perspectives of Big Thunder Mountain that guests can’t experience elsewhere in Frontierland.
Many fans seem very excited about these new additions. While the scenes are a welcome upgrade, some of the enthusiasm may also come from the fact that there is little major new in Disneyland Park this year, with most of this year’s attention focused on Disney Adventure World.
Still, these new Frontierland scenes add extra life and charm to what is perhaps the park’s most underrated attraction and should make future riverboat cruises even more enjoyable.