El Mirage dry lake bed has been home to Land Speed Racing (LSR) for more than sixty years. Back when Land Speed Racing was young, a group of men that had been racing on the dry lakes for several years decided to incorporate and create a new racing organization which would enforce safety procedures and promote the sport. So the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) was created, and to this day also run speed events at Bonneville Salt Flats. Land Speed Racing has always been, and still remains a volunteer sport. As such, the events here are wonderful for families and friends to join together for fun and the excitement that comes with Land Speed Racing.
There are four (4) one-day races per year, June/July/Sep/Oct and two (2) two-day races in May/November. Vehicle inspections begin on the day prior to the race (Saturday) and the racing begins early Sunday morning. The duration of the race usually lasts as long as the weather and course conditions hold up. All spectators are allowed in the starting line area with a signed insurance form and wrist tag, otherwise spectators must be outside the barrier fence. All entries must be a member of one of the clubs within the Southern California Timing Association.
However - there is a "Guest" option to race on the course for "Time Only", meaning anyone can arrive and compete. All drivers MUST be licensed for the speed at which they will be racing. Overnight camping is permitted on the lake bed with a few simple rules. No open fires, no waste dumping, and if you bring it in, you take it home. Speed and helmet regulations exist while on the lake bed and are strictly enforced.
During the summer months it can get very hot, so shade is a must as well as sun screen and plenty of water. There is usually a food vendor, and the SCTA has a sales trailer for all the racing goodies and paraphernalia. All race information for the event is announced on a loud speaker and also broadcast on an FM frequency (88.7) for all spectators to hear while at the lakebed.
El Mirage lies about 20 miles north west of Victorville, and about 30 miles east of Palmdale.
Driving Directions
From LA:
State Route 14 to Palmdale Blvd in Palmdale.
East to 240th St. East.
North (about 1 mile) to El Mirage Rd.
East (about 9 miles) to the Mountain View Rd.
North (about 1 mile) to the Dry Lake bed.
West (about 4 miles) to the start line.
From Bishop:
State Route 395 to Chamberlaine/Crippen Rd in Adelanto.
West (about 2 miles) to Koala Rd.
North (about 1 miles) to El Mirage Rd.
West (about 10 miles) to the Mountain View Rd.
North (about 1 mile) to the Dry Lake bed.
West (about 4 miles) to the start line.
From Las Vegas or San Bernadino:
I15 to State Route 18 in Victorville
West (about 12 miles) to State Route 395
North on State Route 395 (about 10 miles) to Chamberlaine/Crippen Rd in Adelanto.
West (about 2 miles) to Koala Rd.
North (about 1 miles) to El Mirage Rd.
West (about 10 miles) to the Mountain View Rd.
North (about 1 mile) to the Dry Lake bed.
West (about 4 miles) to the start line.
