Glen Helen Raceway is a motocross and off-road racing facility in San Bernardino County, California

Glen Helen Raceway sits on 600 acres in Devore, California, about 50 miles east of Los Angeles. It hosts motocross races, supercross events, and off-road competitions throughout the year. The facility operates as a public track where riders can rent time for practice sessions, and it also hosts sanctioned amateur and professional events.

The track is known for its natural terrain and elevation changes. Unlike some purpose-built motocross tracks, Glen Helen uses the landscape itself — hills, berms, and natural obstacles — as part of the course design. This means the track surface and difficulty shift with weather and use, and conditions vary significantly between practice days and race days.

Glen Helen is one of the few tracks in Southern California where you can show up with your own bike and ride without entering a formal race. This makes it a common destination for riders building skills or testing equipment before competing elsewhere.

Key Takeaways

  • Glen Helen Raceway operates open practice days where riders can pay to ride the track without entering a race, though you must have your own bike and safety gear.
  • The track hosts sanctioned amateur and professional motocross events on weekends, with entry fees and class divisions that vary by event.
  • Track conditions change with weather and seasonal use, so the same section of track rides differently in summer versus winter or after rain.
  • You will need a valid motorcycle license or a waiver signed by a parent or guardian if you are under 18, plus proof of insurance or a track waiver.

Open Practice Days and Public Riding Hours

Glen Helen offers open practice sessions on certain days, usually weekends. Riders pay an entry fee (typically $20 to $40 per day, though this varies) and can ride the track during designated hours. You do not need to be entered in a race or belong to a racing organization to attend — you only need your own bike, helmet, and protective gear.

Practice days are crowded, especially on Saturdays and Sundays. The track is divided into sections, and multiple skill levels ride simultaneously. Beginners, intermediate riders, and advanced riders often share the same track, so you will encounter faster and slower traffic. Arrive early if you want to ride during less-crowded hours.

Hours and fees change seasonally. Glen Helen's website and phone line (909-886-2646) have current schedules. Some weeks the track closes for maintenance or event preparation, so confirm before driving out.

Sanctioned Race Events and Entry Requirements

Glen Helen hosts motocross races most weekends, including amateur and professional events. These are sanctioned by organizations like the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) or the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC). Entry is limited to riders registered for that specific event, and you cannot straightforward show up and ride.

To enter a race, you typically need to register in advance (usually by Friday before the event), pay an entry fee per class (typically $40 to $100), and provide proof of a valid motorcycle license or a signed parental waiver if you are under 18. Some events require AMA membership or a one-day racing license. The event flyer or website lists these requirements before you register.

Race classes are divided by age, skill level, and bike size. A beginner 65cc class is different from an intermediate 250cc class, which is different from a professional open class. You enter the class that matches your age and experience. Entering the wrong class can result in disqualification or injury.

Track Layout and Terrain Features

Glen Helen's main track is roughly 1.5 miles long and includes several distinct sections. The front section is relatively open with wide berms and rolling hills. The middle section includes tighter turns and more technical obstacles. The back section features natural elevation changes and is often the most physically demanding part of the lap.

The track includes a supercross section — a smaller, tighter course with jumps and obstacles designed for supercross-style racing. This section is used during supercross events and some practice days. The main motocross track and supercross track are separate, so you will ride one or the other depending on the day.

Elevation at Glen Helen ranges from about 2,000 feet to 2,600 feet above sea level. The altitude affects bike performance and rider endurance, especially if you are coming from lower elevations. Bikes run leaner at altitude, and riders tire faster in the thinner air.

What to Bring and Safety Requirements

You must bring a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet, protective jacket, gloves, pants, and boots. Many riders also wear chest protectors and neck braces. Glen Helen does not rent gear, so you need to own or borrow everything before you arrive.

Bring your own bike in working condition. Glen Helen does not rent bikes or provide mechanical support beyond a basic first aid station. If your bike breaks down, you will need to tow it out or repair it yourself. Many riders bring a second bike or travel with a mechanic for this reason.

You will need proof of motorcycle insurance or a signed liability waiver. Glen Helen provides the waiver at the gate, but some riders prefer to bring their own insurance card. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the waiver in person.

Seasonal Conditions and Weather Considerations

Glen Helen's terrain is exposed to sun and wind. Summer temperatures often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the track becomes hard-packed and dusty. Winter and spring bring occasional rain, which turns sections of the track into mud and makes the surface unpredictable.

After rain, the track is often closed for 24 to 48 hours to allow it to dry. Riding on wet terrain damages the surface and creates ruts that take weeks to repair. Check the track's status before driving out after rain.

Dust is significant on dry days. Bring goggles with multiple lens options or plan to change lenses between practice sessions. Dust also affects visibility for other riders, so ride defensively and assume you cannot be seen.

Nearby Facilities and Pit Area Setup

Glen Helen has a large pit area where riders park trailers, set up canopies, and work on bikes. The pit area is first-come, first-served on practice days. Arrive early if you want a shaded spot or a location close to the track entrance.

The facility has restrooms, a small concession stand, and a first aid station. There is no fuel station on-site, so fill your truck and bike before arriving. The nearest gas stations are in Devore, about 5 miles away.

Camping is not permitted at Glen Helen. Nearby hotels and motels are in San Bernardino and Victorville, both about 20 to 30 minutes away. Many riders from out of state stay overnight and ride multiple days in a row.

How to Prepare Before Your First Visit

Call Glen Helen at 909-886-2646 or check their website for the current schedule and fees. Confirm whether you want to attend an open practice day or a sanctioned race, because the requirements and costs are different.

If you are attending a race, register in advance and confirm the class you are entering. If you are attending practice, just show up during open hours with your bike, gear, and waiver signed.

Inspect your bike before you go. Check tire pressure, chain tension, oil level, and brake function. A mechanical failure on the track can injure you or other riders. If you are not confident in your bike's condition, have a mechanic check it first.

Ride the track at your own pace on your first visit. Glen Helen is faster and more technical than many local tracks, and the altitude affects performance. Spend your first session learning the layout rather than pushing for speed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride Glen Helen if I do not have a motorcycle license?

You need either a valid motorcycle license or a signed parental waiver if you are under 18. Glen Helen does not issue temporary licenses. If you do not have a license, ask a parent or guardian to sign the waiver at the gate.

What is the difference between practice days and race days?

Practice days are open to anyone who pays the entry fee and has their own bike. Race days require advance registration in a specific class and are limited to riders entered in that event. Race days are more crowded and more competitive, but practice days are less structured and allow you to ride at your own pace.

Do I need to be a member of the AMA to ride at Glen Helen?

You do not need AMA membership for open practice days. Some sanctioned race events require AMA membership or a one-day racing license, but this varies by event. Check the event flyer before registering.

How much does it cost to ride Glen Helen?

Open practice days typically cost $20 to $40 per day. Sanctioned races cost $40 to $100 per class entry, plus any AMA or licensing fees. Prices vary by event and season, so confirm current fees before you go.

What should I do if my bike breaks down during a practice session?

Glen Helen does not provide mechanical support. You will need to push or tow your bike out of the track. Many riders bring a second bike or travel with a mechanic. If you break down, flag down a track official and they will help you get off the course safely.