Willow Springs International Motorsports Park, Racing Circuit

Willow Springs International Motorsports Park lies in the high desert near Rosamond, California, on the edge of the Mojave, and is the oldest continuously operating purpose-built road course in the United States. The original circuit, now known as Big Willow, was built in 1952 and hosted its inaugural event in November 1953, initially on an oiled-dirt surface that was paved over by 1954. Thanks to its remote desert setting and abundant natural run-off, the main course has survived more than seven decades with its layout essentially unaltered, never needing chicanes to slow it down. Its blistering pace and sweeping corners earned it the enduring nickname 'The Fastest Road in the West,' with corner speeds ranging from 70 to 170 mph and straightline speeds reaching 200 mph for the quickest machinery. Substantial elevation change adds to the challenge and gives spectators a near-complete view of the action from the banks. The 600-acre complex grew well beyond the original road course to include the technical Streets of Willow, the canyon-like Horse Thief Mile, plus dirt and paved ovals. Sportscars and motorcycles have been the staple of competition since the California Sports Car Club ran its first races here in 1954, and the venue hosted an early US motorcycle Grand Prix in 1960. California recognised the site as an Official Point of Historical Interest in 1996. Owned by the Huth family since 1962, the park has resisted decades of lucrative buy-out offers and remains in family hands.

Operated by: CrossHarbor Capital Partners (purchased April 2025, renovation planned)