Bike The Glen at Watkins Glen International

Bike The Glen at Watkins Glen International

Watkins Glen International opens its legendary 3.4-mile road course to cyclists each August for Bike the Glen, an evening ride on the same track that hosts NASCAR and IMSA competition. You’ll pedal the circuit’s iconic turns—the Boot, the Esses, and the long back straight—at your own pace, with no cars, no racing pressure, just smooth pavement and Finger Lakes views rolling out beyond the guardrails. The event typically runs on a Thursday or Friday evening in mid-August from 5:30 to 8:00 PM, with registration opening online about six weeks ahead. Riders of all ages and abilities are welcome; families with kids on bikes or in trailers make this a popular outing, and the relaxed vibe means you can stop for photos, chat with fellow cyclists, or just take in the experience of riding where racing legends have pushed limits for decades.

What to Expect
Registration is $25–$35 per rider and includes track access, basic support, and a commemorative item (often a T-shirt or pint glass). You’ll enter through the main gate, park in designated lots near the paddock, then ride out onto the track in a steady flow—not a race, just a shared lap or two around the circuit. Most people complete one to three laps depending on fitness and how much they want to linger. The track surface is excellent, but bring a road bike or hybrid; mountain bikes work but feel slow on the pavement. Helmets are required for all riders.

Quick Tips
• Arrive by 5:00 PM to park, check in, and get your bearings before the crowds build
• Bring lights if you plan to stay until dusk—the track can get shadowy in spots
• Water stations are limited, so carry a bottle
• If tickets sell out, check the SVRA or track websites for waitlist options or next year’s dates

Before or After: Make It a Lake Day
Watkins Glen sits at the southern tip of Seneca Lake, the deepest of the Finger Lakes at 618 feet. Before you ride, walk the village’s lakefront Clute Park for views across the water toward the vineyard-lined western shore, or grab an early dinner at one of Franklin Street’s casual spots—Jerlando’s Ristorante & Pizzeria (open since 1977) serves hearty Italian-American fare just two blocks from the harbor. After your ride, take Route 14 north along Seneca Lake’s east shore for a sunset drive past farms, wineries, and quiet coves. If you’re staying overnight, look for lakeside rentals in Watkins Glen, Montour Falls, or Hector on Lake.com—you’ll want to be close to the water for a morning paddle or a winery brunch the next day.

If You’re Going with Kids
Kids 12 and under ride free with a paying adult, and many families use tag-alongs or trail-a-bikes to keep younger riders safe on the track. The event is low-key and supportive, but be ready for some hills—the track climbs and drops with each turn, so little legs may tire quickly.

Weather & What to Pack
Mid-August in the Finger Lakes brings warm evenings (65–75°F at ride time) with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. If rain threatens, the event may be postponed or canceled—check the Watkins Glen International website or social media for updates the day of. Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light windbreaker in case the temperature drops once the sun dips below the hills.