Significant progress is finally visible on the first-ever attraction based on Pixar’s Coco. This week, crews cleared a major stretch of mature trees along the perimeter of Disney California Adventure. This Coco ride construction marks a massive physical shift for the resort. Work is now moving from backstage preparation into active site development. Pedestrians along Disneyland Drive can see the dramatic change where dense foliage once stood.
A New Journey Into the Land of the Dead
Disney announced this upcoming attraction at the 2024 D23 Expo. This grand-scale boat ride will take guests on a vibrant journey. Miguel will lead visitors into the Land of the Dead. The ride will feature the latest Audio-Animatronics technology to bring characters to life. Imagineers drew inspiration from classics like Pirates of the Caribbean for this project. The experience aims to be a cornerstone of the park’s storytelling.
Infrastructure and Perimeter Work
Evidence of the project’s scale is piling up near the Pixar Place Hotel. Crews are currently installing a massive 16-foot-high perimeter fence. This fence will stretch over 700 feet along the park’s boundary. Behind these temporary barriers, the initial foundation work is already becoming visible. Large piles of mulch and tree stumps remain on the site. Teams are preparing the ground for the next phase of vertical construction. Take a closer look at the aerial view below:
Here’s a look at ongoing tree removal for the Coco attraction. pic.twitter.com/lrILoN84pK
— Critter Club (@CritterClubHQ) March 13, 2026
Leveraging the DisneylandForward Expansion
The Coco attraction is a primary project benefiting from the DisneylandForward initiative. Disney is utilizing land previously used for backstage access roads and storage. This move expands the guest-accessible footprint of the park. Imagineers are squeezing the ride into a compact area near Pixar Pier. This creative use of space allows for a major new attraction without removing existing favorites.
Impact on the Guest Experience
The removal of the perimeter trees has permanently altered the visual landscape. While the clearing is necessary, some fans miss the lush greenery. This foliage once framed the resort and blocked the outside world. The ride’s location near the parade storage gates has also sparked discussions. Fans are curious about future parade logistics in this area. Disney says the project will integrate seamlessly into the existing park lands.
Looking Toward the Future
The project is moving at a rapid pace with the site now cleared. While Disney has not announced an official opening date, work continues daily. Vertical construction should begin later this year. This attraction is a significant addition as the resort prepares for its 70th anniversary. The Coco boat ride will provide much-needed capacity for the park. It celebrates the beloved music and culture of the film in a high-tech way.
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