Road Course
★★★★☆
Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma, California, runs a twisting closed circuit, driven in both directions of turn. Visitors can attend NASCAR, NHRA, and other Spectator Events, or get on track themselves with Club Racing, Driving School, and Track Days. The venue also hosts Drag Racing and Corporate Events. With 18 other tracks in the region, there are many racing options available here.
NASCARNHRASCCATrack DaysDriving SchoolClub RacingSpectator EventsDrag RacingCorporate Events
Watch: Sonoma Raceway
Know Before You Go
- Gear requirements
- Track-day organizers typically require a Snell SA-2020 helmet (or newer), long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Many tracks have rental helmets for first-timers.
- Run groups
- Drivers are slotted into novice, intermediate, or advanced run groups based on pace and instructor sign-off. Group-jumping isn't permitted — you build up over time.
- Tech inspection
- Expect a pre-event tech form plus a visual gate check. Brake-fluid age, throttle return, battery tie-down, and seatbelt condition are the most common flags.
- Cost expectations
- HPDE / open-track days typically run $200-450 per day with 4-6 on-track sessions of 20-25 minutes each. Memberships at private clubs are substantially more.
- First-timer tip
- Most clubs require novices to ride with an instructor for the first day before being released solo. Sign up for instruction in advance — slots fill weeks ahead.