If traffic jams and high gas prices have made driving more like work and less like fun, maybe you need a little time behind the wheel where fun is the only object.
A go-kart track could be just the ticket — and not that kind of ticket.
The Denver area offers go-kart tracks for all tastes, from gasoline racers that blaze up to 120 mph to bunny-slope electric karts that are more like a walk in the park.
On a gorgeous early-spring Sunday afternoon at Adventure Golf and Raceway in Westminster, the crowd was sparse — a far cry from what the track will look like when it gets up to speed in warmer months, said attendant Derrick Rivas, who was starting his second season there. The cars were lined up and waiting, neat and shiny and covered in logos ranging from NAPA and Goodyear to M&M’s and Target.
A few of the local facilities are part of entertainment complexes; others are dedicated tracks.
Here’s a look.
1. IMI Motorsports Complex
This one-mile road course features karts for ages 5 and up, said general manager Bobby Sanchez. It’s designed for faster gas-powered karts, with banked corners, longer straightaways and easier turns.
The track has 17 karts, and allows up to 10 people at a time on the track. Full racing suits are required and are provided with rentals. There’s also a required briefing session before you can drive.
A concession stand and picnic tables are available. Open daily, weather permitting. 5074 Summit Blvd., Dacono (Exit 232 north of Denver on Interstate 25). 303-833-4949 or imimotorsports.com
2. Boondocks Fun Center
Boondocks offers electric and gas go-karts, the more powerful gasoline models for the older drivers. The fun starts for “junior racers” who stand at least 36 inches tall and goes up from there to a total of three categories, each of which has a dedicated track. The biggest is a quarter-mile long; all offer straightaways, turns and curves.
The center’s other attractions include laser tag, a large video arcade, miniature golf, bumper boats, a batting cage, a three-story play structure and a full-service restaurant, said general manager Casey Lee. Open daily, weather permitting. 11425 Community Center Drive, Northglenn. 720-977-8000 or boondocks.info
3. Adventure Golf and Raceway
This operation, part of