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Pedal the famous Watkins Glen track after hours
Ride your bike on Watkins Glen International’s track during a special evening opening—family-friendly cycling with iconic motorsports scenery.
Event details
On July 11, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, Watkins Glen International opens its legendary circuit to cyclists for Bike the Glen, an evening ride that lets you pedal the same corners and straights where professional racers compete. Registration typically opens in early spring, with entry fees around $25 per rider, and helmets are mandatory for all participants. The event welcomes all ages and skill levels, from families with training wheels to serious road cyclists looking to test their fitness on the track’s elevation changes. Gates open at 5 PM, giving you time to check in, warm up, and walk the pit lane before the official start.
The 3.4-mile circuit climbs 150 feet from the front straight through the Esses and down into the Boot, offering a workout that’s challenging but manageable for casual riders. Since the track opened in 1956, only a handful of special events have allowed public access, making this a rare chance to experience a piece of motorsports history from the saddle. Most participants complete one or two laps, though competitive riders sometimes manage three. The track surface is smooth pavement, and while there are no timing chips, the atmosphere feels celebratory rather than competitive, with families stopping for photos at famous corners like the Carousel.
Arrive early to explore downtown Watkins Glen, where you can grab a pre-ride meal or simply walk the harbor pier and watch boats on Seneca Lake. Parking at the track is free, and bike racks are set up near the main entrance. If weather looks uncertain, check the event’s social media the day before, as heavy rain can postpone or cancel the ride. Spectators are welcome, and many local supporters line the fence at Turn 1 to cheer riders through. Bring water, as the July heat can be intense, and wear bright clothing for visibility since you’ll share the track with hundreds of other cyclists.
For dinner after your ride, try Château LaFayette Reneau on Route 414, a winery and bistro operating since 1985 with a deck overlooking Seneca Lake and a menu focused on seasonal ingredients. If you’re making a weekend of it, book a rental on Lake.com near Hector or Burdett, where you’ll have easy access to morning paddles and quiet shoreline walks before the summer crowds arrive.
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