Nestled in the quiet outskirts of Menomonie, Wisconsin, Thunder Hill Speedway is an outdoor go-kart track that serves as a local destination for motorsport fun in the heart of Dunn County. Surrounded by open fields and rolling terrain typical of western Wisconsin, the track takes advantage of its natural setting to offer a rugged, winding course that feels more immersive than the typical flatland karting layout. Designed for both casual riders and competitive racers, it’s a place where the region’s seasonal shifts are part of the experience—think crisp summer evenings and gravel underfoot, with the sound of small engines echoing across the hills. Thunder Hill caters to a range of visitors, from families looking for an active afternoon outing to organized racing groups drawn to its open-event format. The track offers kart rentals on-site, making it accessible to those without their own equipment, and the outdoor nature of the venue means races are weather-dependent and typically geared toward warmer months. While it lacks the polished amenities of larger indoor facilities, its no-frills approach appeals to those who prefer straightforward, authentic track time. Given Menomonie’s location near the Chippewa River and UW-Stout, the speedway also draws interest from students and visitors looking for something off the usual campus or downtown circuit. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a DIY-style racing environment who value track access and regional charm over extensive on-site services.
Watch: Thunder Hill Speedway
Know Before You Go
- Open-track days
- Outdoor karting venues run open practice and arrive-and-drive sessions weekly. Pricing varies from $25 per session at rental tracks to $200+ per day for own-kart.
- Weather impact
- Outdoor karting closes for rain at most rental facilities. Sprint racing continues on wet tires for race weekends. Check forecast — sessions get bumped or refunded.
- Kart classes
- Look for rental karts (low-power 4-stroke), shifter karts (6-speed 125cc), TaG (touch-and-go ignition 100-125cc), and kid karts (50-60cc). Each class has its own day.
- Race series
- Most outdoor tracks host a club championship plus a regional or national series. Entry-level club racing is the cheap way to start — usually $50-150 per race day.