Summit Point Motorsports Park: A Premier Racing Destination

Summit Point Motorsports Park: A Premier Racing Destination

Tracks

Precision Driving, Competitive Racing, and Unforgettable Experiences

Located in Summit Point West Virginia, Summit Point Motorsports Park has been a premier racing venue for over 50 years. Known for its challenging circuit layouts, high-speed straights, and technical corners, Summit Point is a favorite among amateur and professional racers alike. The facility hosts a variety of racing classes, track days, and high-performance driving events, making it a pillar of the East Coast motorsports community.

History of Summit Point Motorsports Park

Summit Point was established in 1969 by entrepreneur and racing enthusiast Bill Scott, originally intended as a dedicated road racing circuit for amateur and professional drivers. Over the years, the track has expanded into a multi-use motorsports complex that serves a variety of disciplines, including road racing, motorcycle racing, and law enforcement training.

Track Configurations

Summit Point offers three primary circuits, each with unique challenges catering to different types of racing and performance driving.

1. Summit Point Circuit (Main Track)

  • Length: 2.0 miles
  • Turns: 10
  • Features: High-speed straights, elevation changes, technical turns
  • Usage: SCCA races, NASA events, endurance racing, HPDE (High-Performance Driver Education)

The Summit Point Circuit is the park’s flagship layout and the most widely recognized. It offers a blend of fast straights and technical turns, making it a favorite for road racers and track day enthusiasts alike.

2. Shenandoah Circuit

  • Length: 2.2 miles
  • Turns: 22
  • Features: Nürburgring-style Karussell corner, blind crests, technical sections
  • Usage: Club racing, driver training, motorcycle track days

The Shenandoah Circuit is one of the most technical tracks in the region, with 22 challenging turns and a replica of the famous Karussell from the Nürburgring. It’s a proving ground for skilled drivers looking to push their limits.

3. Jefferson Circuit

  • Length: 1.1 miles
  • Turns: 7
  • Features: Short technical track, high cornering loads
  • Usage: Training, time trials, karting, autocross

The Jefferson Circuit is the smallest of the three, but it provides a great venue for high-performance, emergency operation and accident avoidance training. It also hosts some motorcycle track days.

Driving Programs at Summit Point

Summit Point Motorsports Park offers a variety of driving programs tailored to different skill levels and interests. These programs include:

  1. Friday at the Track (FATT) – A high-performance driver education program featuring in-car instruction, skid pad training, and track sessions for beginners to advanced drivers.
  2. Drift Nirvana – A dedicated drifting program designed by drifters for drifters, providing track time and skill-building opportunities for both newcomers and experienced drivers.
  3. Summit Point Training Facility – Offers specialized courses focused on accident avoidance, evasive driving techniques, and off-road training to improve driver safety and vehicle control.
  4. Driver's Club – An exclusive membership program providing experienced drivers with 18 private track days annually on the Summit Point Circuit, fostering a community of enthusiasts seeking ample track time.
  5. My Track Time – A program designed for drivers looking to enjoy open track sessions without the structure of formal instruction, allowing participants to experience the track at their own pace.
  6. Seat Time & Open Practice – Sessions aimed at licensed racers and advanced drivers seeking additional practice time to refine their skills and test vehicle setups in a flexible environment.
  7. The Jefferson 500 – An annual vintage racing event that celebrates classic race cars and offers enthusiasts the opportunity to witness historic vehicles competing on the track.
  8. TrackCross – A hybrid program combining elements of autocross and track days, where drivers navigate a timed course laid out on a road racing circuit, emphasizing precision and car control.

Why Summit Point is a Must-Visit Racing Destination

Summit Point isn’t just another racetrack; it’s a place that fosters a passion for motorsports and provides opportunities for drivers of all skill levels to develop their abilities.

Accessibility and Community

  • Located just 90 minutes from Washington, D.C., Summit Point attracts racers from all over the East Coast.
  • The track has a strong community of grassroots racers and track-day enthusiasts, making it a great place for networking and skill development.

Safety and Facilities

  • Summit Point has continually invested in safety improvements, including modernized run-off areas and trackside medical response teams.
  • Facilities include garage rentals, paddock space, and hospitality areas, making it a well-rounded motorsports venue.

Training and Development

  • Summit Point’s driver training programs help law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian drivers develop high-speed driving and vehicle control skills.
  • Its track days and HPDE programs provide invaluable experience for newcomers looking to advance their motorsports careers.

Appeasing Everyone

Summit Point Motorsports Park is not only a racetrack, but a cornerstone of the American motorsports community. Whether you’re a professional racer, a weekend warrior, or someone looking to hone their driving skills, Summit Point offers something for everyone.

With its diverse track layouts, wide range of racing classes, and commitment to driver development, it remains one of the most beloved racing destinations on the East Coast. If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding track experience, Summit Point is the place to be.