Posted in North Carolina February 24, 2017 by Sophia

Mother Nature Is Reclaiming This Abandoned NASCAR Track In North Carolina

This abandoned NASCAR track in North Carolina once played host to screaming crowds, roaring engines and zooming racecars. Today, it’s being slowly overtaken by nature. Take a look at these haunting images by photographer Johnny Joo.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

The North Wilkesboro Speedway was opened on May 18, 1947.

It was the site of some of the most legendary races in NASCAR history.

The first race featured one of the famous Flock Brothers and had over 10,000 spectators, which was well above the 3,000 expected attendees.

Kenneth Wagner won the first Cup Pole at this track in 1949.

The track held 93 Winston Cup Series races and NASCAR events before closing in 1996.

Though it briefly reopened in 2010, the track has been slowly crumbling since its abandonment.

Grass is starting to push through the pavement and overtake the track.

The roaring of the crowd has been replaced by the sound of wind racing through the empty bleachers.

This abandoned speedway is just one of many incredible modern ruins in the South. Check out Johnny Joo’s new book Americana Forgotten for more incredible images of abandoned places around the country.