LP Lotion: Disneyland Returns Rivers of America with New Themes and New Scenes
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After a lengthy refurbishment, Disneyland’s Rivers of America was reopened to the public on Monday, May 12. Not only were many familiar sights restored, but new scenes have been added, reflecting a new theme for the waterway.

Much of the work that was done will not be seen by the public. Infrastructure for river craft and special effects for Fantasmic! have been concealed by the deeply dyed water. Other areas, such as the canoe dock and Pirates Lair on Tom Sawyer Island appear as they did before cleaning, repair, or replacement.

New scenes and landscape have been added to reflect a new theme, a journey through four distinctly American rivers: the Mississippi, the Columbia, the Potomac, and the Rio Grande. With New Orleans Square as the departure point, the Mississippi was an obvious choice for the first leg of the journey. New landscape has been added on Tom Sawyer Island. The settler’s cabin that for many years burned, either from Indian attack or carelessness, now houses Mike Fink, “King of the River.” Fink’s Gullywhumper keelboat is docked nearby, and the distinctive coonskin cap of Davy Crockett may be seen hanging by the front door. Completing the illusion is the sound of voices, raised in familiar song, inside the cabin.

The Columbia River portion of the trip includes new evergreen plantings, and a tumbling creek, where a herd of deer have gathered. New plantings along the shoreline and in small pocket islands will create a lush landscape, typical of the northwestern United States.

The Potomac portion includes the existing Indian village, identified as Plains Indians. The village has been refreshed with the addition of an enclosed paddock, holding live horses. In addition, Indian figures may be found on both sides of the river. A majestic Bald Eagle, guarding her nest, is found just downriver from the Indian Village.

The moose and beaver, seen for many years on the island, are joined by a humorous vignette featuring raccoons and a skunk. The moose herd has also doubled in size to four.

Red rocks mark the start of the Rio Grande section. Near the shoreline petroglyphs may be found carved into the stone. Mountain Lions sun themselves in the new southwestern landscape. This section also incorporates the remains of the old rail line that once served as part of the Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland.

Back at the dock, the small structure housing the equipment for Fantasmic! has been refurbished. The deck area is again open to the public. Guests there will find stacked crates, labeled and ready for delivery to Mike Fink.

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River boat landing serves the Mark Twain steam boat and sailing ship Columbia
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