Virginia International Raceway
Alton, United States
3.270 miles • 17 Corners
About Virginia International Raceway
Virginia International Raceway (VIR) is one of North America’s most respected and scenic road racing circuits, located near Alton, Virginia, along the Virginia-North Carolina border. Originally opened in 1957 and fully restored and modernised in 2000, VIR has become a cornerstone of American road racing, testing and high performance driving. The full 3.270-mile (5.262 km) layout features 17 corners and is renowned for its high speed flowing sections, dramatic elevation changes and technical braking zones. Legendary areas include the Climbing Esses, South Bend, Roller Coaster, Oak Tree and the long back straight. VIR combines old school character with modern safety infrastructure, making it a favourite for professionals and enthusiasts alike. VIR hosts the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, SRO GT World Challenge America, MotoAmerica (historically), historic racing, manufacturer testing and an extremely busy schedule of public car and motorcycle track days and driving schools. With its rural setting, fast layout and consistent activity, VIR is one of the most popular tracks in the United States for both drivers and motorsport photographers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Virginia International Raceway is located in Alton, Virginia, near the North Carolina border. The full address is 1245 Pine Tree Rd, Alton, VA 24520, United States.
The full Grand West configuration is 3.270 miles (5.262 km) long and features 17 corners.
Yes. VIR regularly hosts public car and motorcycle track days, high performance driving schools and private testing through approved organisers.
VIR is most famous for its Climbing Esses, Roller Coaster section, Oak Tree corner and its reputation as one of America’s most driver focused road courses.
Yes. VIR hosts IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, SRO GT World Challenge America, historic racing and endurance events.
Yes. Beginners are welcome in novice groups with instructor support. However, the high speeds and elevation changes require respect and proper preparation.
Yes. Noise limits vary by event but are typically around 103–105 dB(A) static, with monitoring during track activity.
Yes. Modified cars are permitted provided they meet safety regulations and comply with organiser noise and technical rules.
Yes. VIR is excellent for motorsport photography thanks to its rolling hills, fast Esses, long straights and natural rural backdrop.
After your event, you can search LapSnaps by track and date to find Virginia International Raceway track day photos and purchase high resolution digital downloads directly from photographers.
Virginia International Raceway is privately owned and operated by VIR, LLC.
Yes. VIR operates year round, weather permitting, with racing, testing and public track days scheduled throughout most months of the year.
Photographers regularly attend events at VIR. Trackside and commercial photography typically requires organiser permission or event accreditation.
Yes. LapSnaps features Virginia International Raceway track day photos from verified photographers. You can browse by event day and purchase high-resolution digital downloads directly online.
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