The New England Forest Rally is an annual two-day stage rally that takes place on the back roads and logging tracks of Western Maine and Northern New Hampshire. Sanctioned by RallyCar (formerly Rally America) the NEFR is one of six National Championship rallies that take place in the United States. In addition to the two-day national competition (which draws competitors from all over the US and Canada) the event also includes two one-day regional competitions that are held concurrently with the national. Many local and regional enthusiasts compete right alongside the top national competitors.

The NEFR course is made up of dirt and gravel logging roads that are known as a favorite among competitors due to their challenging and technical demands.

For the fans, New England provides stunning scenery and wildlife, with winding creeks and one-lane bridges that add beauty to the race. But the real thrill is witnessing the incredible skill of these drivers as they maneuver their cars (twisting, sliding, turning, and jumping) through the woods at speeds up to 100mph!

The NEFR is typically headquartered at Sunday River Ski Resort where the day’s festivities and spectating will usually begin and end. Throughout the duration of the day the competitors will transit from one competitive stage to the next, often traversing many miles on regular roads in between.

The competitive stages are held at select locations throughout Western Maine and Northern New Hampshire with somewhat differing roads and routes each year.

Spectators will typically transit along with the competitors to the official spectator areas, which are set up at strategic view points along the course.

Some spectator areas are known as “super specials.” These are stages that are specially designed to bring the action directly to the fans. The most well known super special at the New England Forest Rally is the Mexico Recreation Area. Normally held on Friday afternoon, large crowds gather in the park to witness a high flying jump built specially for the event!

Fans also attend rallies for festivities such as “Parc Exposes.” This is where all the teams parade their cars into an open area where fans can gather, mingle with the competitors, get autographs, and see the cars up close. Music, food, and fun are also thrown into the mix.

Spectating a rally is fun and free! For more info on how to go about spectating please click here.