Watkins Glen International
Watkins Glen, United States
3.450 miles • 11 Corners
About Watkins Glen International
Watkins Glen International is one of the most famous permanent road racing circuits in North America, located in the village of Watkins Glen, New York, at the southern tip of Seneca Lake. First opened as a permanent circuit in 1956 after years of public road racing, Watkins Glen quickly became a staple of international motorsport and American road racing history. The 3.450-mile (5.550 km) Grand Prix layout features 11 corners and is renowned for its dramatic elevation changes and ultra fast flowing sections. Signature areas include the Esses, the Inner Loop Bus Stop chicane, Toe of the Boot, Heel of the Boot, and the high speed run back onto the front straight. The circuit demands precision, braking stability and confidence at sustained high speeds. Watkins Glen is a long time host of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, NASCAR Cup Series road course races, historic racing festivals, manufacturer testing and a busy schedule of public car and motorcycle track days. With natural elevation, lakeside scenery and classic American motorsport heritage, Watkins Glen is a premier destination for drivers and motorsport photographers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Watkins Glen International is located in Watkins Glen, New York, USA. The full address is 2790 County Route 16, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, United States.
The Grand Prix configuration is 3.450 miles (5.550 km) long and features 11 corners.
Yes. Watkins Glen regularly hosts public car and motorcycle track days, driving schools and private testing through approved organisers.
Watkins Glen is most famous for its fast Esses, dramatic elevation changes, IMSA endurance races and its history as a former Formula 1 venue.
Yes. Watkins Glen hosts IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, NASCAR Cup Series road course races, historic racing and international GT events.
Yes. Beginners are welcome through novice track day groups with instructor support, although the high speeds and elevation changes require discipline.
Yes. Noise limits vary by organiser and event but typically range around 103–105 dB(A) static, with monitoring during track days.
Yes. Modified cars are permitted provided they meet safety regulations and comply with event specific noise limits.
Yes. Watkins Glen is outstanding for motorsport photography due to its elevation changes, high speed Esses, natural scenery and dramatic braking zones.
After your event, you can search LapSnaps by track and date to find Watkins Glen International track day photos and purchase high resolution digital downloads directly from photographers.
Watkins Glen International is owned and operated by NASCAR / International Speedway Corporation (ISC).
Watkins Glen operates seasonally from spring through autumn due to winter weather conditions in New York State.
Photographers regularly attend events at Watkins Glen.
Yes. LapSnaps features Watkins Glen International track day photos from verified photographers. You can browse by event day and purchase high-resolution digital downloads directly online.
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