The Abandoned Whiskey Ridge Race Track, Newaygo County

The former Whiskey Ridge race track was a dirt oval track that opened in the Michigan’s Newaygo County back in 1946.

Located at 11990 Pike Avenue n the town of Grant, the track had a good run, spanning four decades. During the 1t was a favorite place to go on summertime Sundays featuring stock car races, the Powder Puff derby, midget auto racing, all promising Thrills! Chills! And Spills! for all.

It may have spanned four decades, but it wasn’t open the whole time. It indeed opened in 1946 but closed in 1960. It sat dormant until 1972 when it re-opened for a while until closed again – this time permanently – in 1976.

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Officially called Whisky Ridge Raceway, the track also was known as Newaygo County Speedway and Maple Island Speedway. The track was small, 3/8 of a mile, but popular enough to hold many races, invitationals, and trophy championships.

The gallery below shows you where this now-abandoned racetrack lies.