10 Mile Stock Car Drive Experience at Pocono Raceway

Feel Like a NASCAR Driver on Pocono Raceway’s 10-Mile Drive

The 10 Mile Stock Car Drive Experience at Pocono Raceway offers an exhilarating chance to take the wheel of a 600-horsepower NASCAR-style stock car. For $399 per person, participants enjoy approximately 3 hours of high-speed action on the iconic 2.5-mile track in the Pocono Mountains. The experience includes professional training, a safety briefing, and official gear, making it accessible for drivers aged 18 and above with a valid driver’s license. The tour is booked around 67 days in advance on average, highlighting its popularity.

While the price might seem steep, the experience’s main draw is the opportunity to drive fast on a renowned NASCAR circuit. It’s perfect for adrenaline junkies and motorsport fans eager to feel the thrill of racing. However, it’s worth noting that this experience is subject to weather conditions, and refunds are not available if you need to cancel. The activity suits those with moderate physical fitness and a maximum height of 6’5″ and weight of 300 lbs.

Key Points

• Drive a 600-horsepower NASCAR-style stock car around Pocono’s famous 2.5-mile track
• Approximately 3 hours in length, including instruction and safety gear
• Book well in advance, with bookings averaging 67 days ahead
• Includes professional guidance, safety equipment, and official racing attire
• Not suitable for minors, as minimum age is 18, with restrictions based on height and weight
• Weather-dependent experience, with options to reschedule if postponed

Pocono Raceway: An Iconic NASCAR Venue

Pocono Raceway is one of NASCAR’s premier tracks, located in the scenic Pocono Mountains. Known for its unique triangle shape and long 2.5-mile layout, it offers a challenging but thrilling environment for drivers. This tour begins at Earnhardt Road in Long Pond, PA, where participants meet for their scheduled drive.

The raceway’s reputation as a historic NASCAR venue makes driving here a special experience. The track hosts major racing events, and being able to drive on it gives visitors a rare, firsthand perspective of what NASCAR drivers encounter. The facility is equipped to handle a maximum of 5 travelers per session, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What the 10-Mile Drive Includes: Professional Training and Safety Gear

Before hitting the track, drivers receive comprehensive instruction on the basics of race car operation and track regulations. This ensures even newcomers feel confident behind the wheel. The training is led by professionally trained staff who explain the essentials clearly and thoroughly.

Once prepared, participants are suited in an official racing suit, helmet, and HANS device—all included in the price. This professional gear provides both safety and an immersive racing atmosphere. The car’s automatic or manual transmission options allow for flexibility based on driver preference. Safety measures and equipment are standard, making it a controlled yet thrilling experience.

The Actual Driving Experience: Speed and Control

The main event involves driving 10 miles around the track in a NASCAR-style stock car. Traveling fast along the famous Pocono circuit, drivers feel what it’s like to perform on a real race track. The experience emphasizes speed and control, giving participants a taste of professional racing.

While the thrill of driving at high speeds is undeniable, some reviews highlight frustrations with pace or performance. One reviewer mentioned that their car felt slower than expected, with a comment about their truck being faster, which might influence expectations for those seeking a full-throttle racing rush. The experience remains a memorable achievement for most.

Optional Add-Ons and Extra Purchases at the Track

While the core experience includes driving the stock car, visitors can purchase souvenir photos and in-car videos to capture their moment on the track. Many find these keepsakes a worthwhile addition to remember the day.

Plus, there’s an option to add a 3-lap passenger ride-along, providing a co-pilot experience for those preferring to sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of racing. These extras are available for purchase at the track, but are not included in the base price.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour starts at Earnhardt Road in Long Pond, PA, with the activity ending back at the same point. The group size is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. The tour offers a selection of departure times throughout the day, allowing flexibility to fit various schedules.

Participants should arrive prepared for weather conditions; the experience is subject to postponement if weather is poor, with options to reschedule. The activity does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers must arrange their own transportation.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This experience is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. The minimum age is 18 years, and participants must hold a valid driver’s license. The maximum height is 6’5″, and maximum weight is 300 lbs. Service animals are allowed, and the activity is near public transportation, making access easier for most.

It is recommended that drivers have some comfort with physical activity and safety procedures, but no advanced driving skills are required. The thorough instruction component ensures even complete beginners feel prepared.

Weather Conditions and Rescheduling Policies

The experience is dependent on favorable weather. Poor weather conditions can lead to postponements, and no refunds are available for cancellations due to weather or personal reasons. Participants are advised to plan accordingly and be flexible in case of rescheduling.

In case of bad weather, the organizers offer the option to choose an alternative date. It’s important to note that cancellations are non-refundable, so travelers should confirm their availability for the booked date.

Customer Feedback: Highlights and Concerns

Most reviews praise the professionalism of staff and the quality of instruction, with some describing the experience as “phenomenal” and “the experience of a lifetime”. Many appreciate the thorough training and the friendly, helpful staff that make even first-time drivers comfortable.

However, some reviews express disappointment with the performance of the cars, mentioning that the drive was slower than expected, and some highlight concerns about damage to personal vehicles after the event. One review reports hundreds of chips in their windshield and damage costing $11,400—a point to consider if bringing a personal vehicle.

Others criticize poor customer service in handling weather cancellations and the value for money, especially if they couldn’t participate at the scheduled time or felt the experience did not meet their expectations.

Final Thoughts: Is the 10-Mile Stock Car Drive at Pocono Worth It?

The 10 Mile Stock Car Drive at Pocono Raceway offers a unique chance to experience NASCAR-style racing in a controlled environment. The inclusion of professional instruction and safety gear ensures a safe and exciting adventure. This experience suits motorsport enthusiasts and those seeking a thrilling activity that’s different from typical sightseeing tours.

On the downside, the cost of $399 and the weather dependency may affect some visitors’ plans. The mixed reviews regarding car performance and damage risks suggest that those considering this tour should weigh their expectations carefully and plan for possible rescheduling.

Overall, for those eager to feel the thrill of racing and willing to invest in a memorable experience, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s best suited for individuals ready for adventure and prepared for some uncertainties related to weather and car performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the experience includes professional instruction and safety gear, making it accessible even to first-time drivers with a valid driver’s license.

What is included in the price?
The $399 fee covers the driving experience, safety gear, racing suit, and helmet. Souvenir photos and ride-alongs are available for purchase separately.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers a variety of departure times throughout the day to accommodate different schedules.

What are the age and physical requirements?
Participants must be at least 18 years old, with a valid driver’s license. The maximum height is 6’5″, and weight is up to 300 lbs.

Will the experience be canceled if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent. If postponed due to poor weather, you’ll have the option to reschedule; no refunds are offered for cancellations due to weather.

Are there any additional costs?
Additional purchases, like photos and ride-alongs, are not included and can be bought at the track.

How long does the experience last?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours, including instruction, gear-up, and the drive itself.

Where is the meeting point?
The experience starts and ends at Earnhardt Road, Long Pond, PA.

Is the track accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the location is near public transportation, making it reachable for most visitors.

Can I bring my own vehicle?
The activity involves driving a provided stock car; personal vehicles are not driven on the track but can be used at your own risk, as some reviews mention damage concerns.