Located near Willows, Thunderhill Raceway Park is one of California’s premier motorsports destinations. Known for its long, challenging track layouts and scenic surroundings, it attracts professional racers, driving enthusiasts, and spectators alike.
The facility hosts a variety of events, including high-performance driving schools, club racing, endurance competitions, and track days open to the public. With multiple track configurations and modern amenities, Thunderhill offers a dynamic experience for drivers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re behind the wheel or watching the action, it’s a go-to spot for adrenaline-filled motorsport excitement in Northern California.
Location and Overview
Thunderhill Raceway Park is located in Willows, California. The facility sits approximately 90 miles north of Sacramento and 45 miles west of Chico. Its location in the rural Sacramento Valley means plenty of open space and minimal noise restrictions.
The facility encompasses over 800 acres of land. Its features include:
- Thunderhill East: The original 3-mile, 15-turn road course
- Thunderhill West: A 2-mile, 12-turn road course
- The Bypass: A connector that combines both tracks into a 5-mile, 27-turn mega-course
- Paddock areas with paved and grass parking
- Garage facilities for race teams
- Classroom and meeting spaces
- Fuel station on-site
- Restrooms and showers
- Camping areas for overnight stays
Thunderhill is owned and operated by the San Francisco Region of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) , which purchased the facility in 2013. The SCCA has invested significantly in improvements.
History of Thunderhill Raceway Park
Thunderhill Raceway Park opened in 1993 as the vision of a dedicated group of racing enthusiasts. Renowned track architect Alan Wilson designed the original 3-mile, 15-turn course to highlight the natural Northern California terrain. Significant elevation changes and challenging corners provide a world-class driving experience for every skill level.
The San Francisco Region SCCA purchased the facility in 2013 to ensure its future as a community-owned, non-profit track. Recent expansions include the addition of the West Course in 2017 alongside numerous infrastructure improvements. Today, drivers recognize Thunderhill as one of the finest road racing facilities in the United States.
- Open a World-Class Track: Launch the premier Northern California racing facility in 1993.
- Experience Alan Wilson’s Design: Navigate a technical 3-mile course with 15 demanding turns.
- Master Natural Elevation: Drive a layout that utilizes the rolling terrain for maximum challenge.
- Support Community Ownership: Join a non-profit facility owned by the San Francisco Region SCCA.
- Explore the West Course: Test the newer track expansion added during the 2017 season.
- Race at a Top Facility: Compete at one of the most respected road racing venues in the country.
Thunderhill East Course
The Thunderhill East Course is the original 3-mile, 15-turn road course. It is the heart of the facility.
Track Specifications
- Length: 3 miles
- Turns: 15
- Elevation change: 110 feet
- Width: 40 feet
- Pit lane: 1,600 feet
Notable Corners
- Turn 1: A fast right-hander after the front straight, with significant g-loads.
- Turn 2: “Cyclone” is a long, sweeping right-hander that tests car balance.
- Turn 3: A tight left-hander at the end of the Cyclone.
- Turns 5-6: “The Off-Ramp” is a challenging complex requiring precision.
- Turn 8: A blind crest that requires commitment.
- Turn 9: A downhill left-hander.
- Turn 10: “Riverside” is a fast, banked right-hander.
- Turn 11: A tight left-hander after a hard braking zone.
- Turns 14-15: The final complex leading onto the front straight.
The East Course is known for its high speeds, elevation changes, and challenging corners. It is a favorite among drivers.
Thunderhill West Course
The Thunderhill West Course opened in 2017, adding a new dimension to the facility. This 2-mile, 12-turn course offers a different driving experience.
Track Specifications
- Length: 2 miles
- Turns: 12
- Elevation change: Moderate
- Width: 40 feet
Notable Corners
- Turn 1: A fast right-hander off the front straight.
- Turns 2-3: A technical chicane.
- Turn 4: “The Carousel” is a long, sweeping right-hander.
- Turns 6-7: A tight, technical section.
- Turn 8: A blind crest.
- Turn 12: The final corner onto the front straight.
The West Course is more technical than the East Course, with tighter corners and a different rhythm. Together, the two courses offer exceptional variety.
The 5-Mile Bypass
For drivers seeking the ultimate challenge, the Bypass connects the East and West Courses into a 5-mile, 27-turn mega-course. This configuration uses portions of both tracks and a connecting road.
Features
- Length: 5 miles
- Turns: 27
- Lap times: Approximately 3 minutes in a fast car
The 5-mile configuration is used for select events, including the famous 25 Hours of Thunderhill.
25 Hours of Thunderhill
The 25 Hours of Thunderhill is the facility’s signature event. It is the longest endurance race in North America.
Location: Thunderhill Raceway Park
Dates: First weekend of December
Duration: 25 hours (typically 11 AM Saturday to 12 PM Sunday)
Series: NASA (National Auto Sport Association)
Race Features
- Teams of 4-8 drivers share a single car
- Multiple classes for different car types (sports cars, touring cars, prototypes)
- Day and night racing (the race runs through darkness)
- Endurance strategy including fuel, tires, and driver changes
- Survivor element reliability is as important as speed
History: The 25 Hours of Thunderhill began in 2003. It has become a bucket-list event for endurance racers from across the country and around the world.
Unique Challenges
- Cold temperatures in December (frost on the track in early morning)
- Fog can reduce visibility
- Driver fatigue requires careful management
- Car reliability is tested over 25 hours
The 25 Hours of Thunderhill is a true test of man and machine.
Other Major Events
Thunderhill hosts numerous other events throughout the year.
- NASA (National Auto Sport Association) Events: NASA holds multiple race weekends at Thunderhill each year. Events include sprint races, endurance races, and high-performance driving education (HPDE).
- SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) Events: The SCCA holds regional and national races at Thunderhill.
- Lucky Dog Racing League: This endurance racing series visits Thunderhill.
- Lemons Racing: The quirky, budget-minded 24 Hours of Lemons races at Thunderhill.
Numerous organizations host track days at Thunderhill, including:
- Hooked on Driving
- SpeedSF
- Turn8
- NCRC (Northern California Racing Club)
- PCA (Porsche Club of America)
- BMW CCA (Car Club of America)
- Audi Club
- Trackmasters
Track Days for Enthusiasts
Track days are the most accessible way to experience Thunderhill. These events allow drivers to bring their own cars onto the track in a safe, controlled environment.
What is a Track Day?
- Drivers drive their own cars on the racetrack
- Instructors provide guidance for beginners
- Run groups separate drivers by experience level
- Safety standards including passing rules and tech inspections
Cost: Track days typically cost $200-400 per day, depending on the organization and track configuration.
What You Need
- A safe, mechanically sound car
- A helmet (rentals often available)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Long pants
- A positive attitude
Track Day Organizations at Thunderhill
- Hooked on Driving: Known for excellent instruction and safety focus
- SpeedSF: Popular with the import and tuner crowd
- Turn8: Focused on driver development
- NCRC: Affordable track days with a laid-back vibe
- PCA and BMW CCA: Club events with strong instruction
Racing School
For those who want to learn to drive on track, Thunderhill hosts several racing schools.
NASA HPDE: NASA’s High Performance Driving Education program offers classroom instruction and on-track coaching. It is the path to getting a competition license.
Simraceway Performance Driving Center: Located at Thunderhill, Simraceway offers:
- High-performance driving courses
- Racing school
- Corporate events
- Instruction using their fleet of race cars
SCCA Starting Line: A one-day school for aspiring autocrossers and track drivers.
Private Instruction: Many track day organizations offer private instruction for an additional fee.
Facilities and Amenities
Thunderhill Raceway Park offers excellent facilities for drivers, crew, and spectators.
Paddock Area
- Paved paddock with ample space for race cars and trailers
- Grass paddock for overflow parking
- Garage rentals available for race weekends (reserve in advance)
- Electric hookups for select paddock spots
- Water hookups for RVs
Concessions
- On-site food vendor during major events
- Snack bar with basic items
- Pit lane deli for sandwiches and drinks
Fuel
- On-site fuel station with racing fuel (100 octane) and pump gas
- Propane for RVs
Restrooms and Showers
- Modern restrooms throughout the facility
- Showers for overnight stays
Camping
- Dry camping permitted in designated areas
- RV parking with hookups available (reserve in advance)
- No hookups in grass areas
Classroom
- Air-conditioned classroom for driver meetings and instruction
Spectator Information
Spectators are welcome at many Thunderhill events.
Best Events for Spectators
- 25 Hours of Thunderhill (December) – The premier event
- NASA Race Weekends – Multiple race groups, full schedule
- Lemons Racing – Quirky cars and creative themes
What to Bring
- Lawn chairs for comfortable viewing
- Sunscreen and hat (limited shade)
- Water and snacks (concessions limited)
- Ear protection (race cars are loud)
- Camera to capture the action
Viewing Areas
- Grandstands overlooking the front straight
- Turns 1-2 area for close viewing
- Turns 14-15 (final corner) for passing action
- West Course (limited spectator access)
Admission: Spectator fees vary by event. Most events charge $10-20 per day.
Getting There
Thunderhill Raceway Park is located in rural Glenn County.
Address: 5250 Highway 162, Willows, CA 95988
By Car
- From Sacramento: Take I-5 north to Highway 162 west (approximately 90 miles)
- From San Francisco: Take I-80 east to I-505 north to I-5 north to Highway 162 west (approximately 140 miles)
- From Chico: Take Highway 32 west to I-5 south to Highway 162 west (approximately 45 miles)
- From Redding: Take I-5 south to Highway 162 west (approximately 80 miles)
By Air
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF): Approximately 90 miles south
- Chico Municipal Airport (CIC): Approximately 45 miles north
- Private aircraft: Willows-Glenn County Airport is nearby
Lodging: Hotels are available in Willows (10 minutes) and Chico (45 minutes). Many racers camp at the track.
Weather Considerations
Thunderhill’s location in the Sacramento Valley means extreme temperatures.
Summer (June-September)
- Very hot (90-110 degrees)
- Drink plenty of water
- Wear sunscreen and a hat
- Use cool suits or air-conditioned race cars if possible
- Avoid peak afternoon heat
Winter (December-February)
- Cold (30-50 degrees)
- Frost possible on track in early morning
- Fog can delay starts
- Layered clothing recommended
Spring and Fall
- Mild and pleasant (60-80 degrees)
- Ideal for track driving
Track Rules and Safety
Thunderhill enforces strict safety rules.
Driver Requirements
- Valid driver’s license
- Helmet (Snell-rated, typically SA2015 or newer)
- Long pants
- Closed-toe shoes
- Car in good mechanical condition
Car Requirements
- Brake pads with sufficient life
- Tires with sufficient tread
- No fluid leaks
- Battery properly secured
- Working seat belts
On-Track Rules
- Passing only in designated zones (varies by event)
- Point-by passing only (some events)
- No aggressive driving
- Obey flag rules
- Pit lane speed limit (typically 25 mph)
Flag Meanings
- Green: Track is clear, go
- Yellow: Caution, no passing, be prepared to stop
- Red: Session stopped, return to pit lane slowly
- Black: Pull off track (usually for mechanical issue)
- Checkered: Session ended
Garage Rentals
For race weekends and some track days, garage spaces are available for rent.
Garage Features
- Enclosed space for one or two cars
- Electricity for lights and tools
- Concrete floor
- Roll-up door
- Proximity to pit lane
Cost: $100-200 per day, depending on event
Reservations: Garages must be reserved in advance through the event organizer.
Photography at Thunderhill
Thunderhill is a photographer’s paradise. The elevation changes and scenic backdrop provide excellent photo opportunities.
Best Photo Spots
- Turn 1: Capture cars at speed heading into the corner
- Turn 2 (Cyclone): Long sweeping corner with elevation
- Turn 8: Blind crest with dramatic compression
- Turn 10 (Riverside): Banked corner with nearby access
- Front straight: Start-finish line with pit lane backdrop
Photography Tips
- Use a telephoto lens (70-200mm or longer)
- Pan with cars to create motion blur
- Shoot early or late for best light
- Use a monopod for stability
- Bring ear protection (loud race cars)
Professional Photographers: Several professional photographers shoot at Thunderhill events. They offer on-site printing and digital downloads.
Thunderhill in Popular Culture
Thunderhill has been featured in automotive media numerous times.
- Car and Driver: Lightning Lap comparison tests
- Motor Trend: Various road tests and features
- Road & Track: Endurance race coverage
- YouTube: Countless automotive channels have filmed at Thunderhill
The track’s challenging layout and scenic setting make it a favorite for automotive journalists.
The Future of Thunderhill
Thunderhill continues to evolve. Future plans may include:
- Additional track configurations
- Expanded paddock and garage facilities
- Improved spectator amenities
- Renewable energy installations
- Additional racing events
The SCCA’s ownership ensures the track’s future as a community-focused, non-profit facility.
“A World-Class Motorsports Facility”
Northern California’s Racing Gem
Thunderhill Raceway Park shines as a gem in Northern California’s motorsports landscape. This premier facility offers a challenging 3-mile course, a technical 2-mile West Course, and a legendary 5-mile bypass. Drivers of all skill levels find a configuration that fits their specific needs.
The famous 25 Hours of Thunderhill serves as a grueling ultimate test of endurance for professional teams. Enthusiasts also enjoy accessible fun through frequent track day events held year-round. This rural destination combines excellent amenities with a welcoming atmosphere for every visitor.
- Master Three Unique Courses: Choose from the 3-mile, 2-mile West, or the massive 5-mile bypass.
- Test Your Endurance: Compete in or watch the legendary 25 Hours of Thunderhill race.
- Join Accessible Track Days: Bring your own car for a day of high-speed fun and learning.
- Enjoy Excellent Amenities: Utilize the modern paddock, fueling stations, and onsite dining.
- Experience Rural Charm: Relax in a quiet, scenic location away from city traffic.
- Witness Racing Excitement: Visit as a spectator to see world-class road racing up close.
Visiting Thunderhill Raceway Park
Make the most of your Thunderhill experience with these tips.
Drivers
- Register early for popular events (they sell out)
- Prepare your car (brake fluid flush, pad check, tire check)
- Pack essentials (helmet, water, snacks, chair, sun protection)
- Arrive the night before for early morning drivers meetings
- Stay hydrated (especially in summer)
- Listen to your instructor (if you’re a beginner)
- Have fun
Spectators
- Check the event schedule before you go
- Bring lawn chairs for comfortable viewing
- Bring ear protection (race cars are loud)
- Bring water and snacks (concessions limited)
- Dress for the weather (extreme heat or cold)
- Explore the paddock (teams are often friendly)
Racers
- Register for your competition license well in advance
- Test the car thoroughly before race weekend
- Bring spares (brake pads, tires, fluids, tools)
- Have a crew (at least one helper)
- Pace yourself (especially in endurance races)
- Finish first to win (reliability is key)
Visit Thunderhill Raceway Park. Drive the track. Experience the 25 Hours. Enjoy a track day. Watch the racing. Discover why this is one of the finest road racing facilities in the United States. The track is waiting. Your lap begins now.
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Website: thunderhill.com
Address: Thunderhill Raceway Park, 5250 CA-162, Willows, CA 95988
Location Map:
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