Build An RC Track: DIY Guide For An Awesome Backyard Course

Aug 5, 2025 by Henrik Larsen 60 views

How to Build an Awesome RC Track in Your Backyard

Hey guys! Are you tired of just bashing your RC car around on the boring old grass or the same old streets? Do you dream of having your own epic RC track where you can tear it up and test your driving skills? Well, you've come to the right place! Building your own RC track is a super fun and rewarding DIY project. It's a great way to take your RC experience to the next level. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can create the ultimate backyard playground for your RC car.

1. Planning Your RC Track: Size, Space, and Design

So, you're ready to build an RC track, awesome! The first step is all about planning. We need to think about the size of your track, the space you have available, and what kind of design you want. This is where the fun really begins, so let's dive in!

Assess Your Space

Before you start dreaming of massive jumps and hairpin turns, let's get real about the space you have. You'll need a large, relatively flat, and clear area. Think about the size of your yard and how much of it you're willing to dedicate to your track.

Measure your space: Grab a measuring tape and get the dimensions of your potential track area. This will give you a good idea of the maximum size of your track.
Consider the terrain: Is your yard perfectly flat, or does it have some hills and bumps? A flat surface is ideal, but you can incorporate some slight changes in elevation into your track design. Just make sure it's not too steep or uneven.
Clear the area: Remove any obstacles like rocks, trees, or bushes. You'll want a clean slate to work with.

Think About the Track Size

The size of your track will depend on the space you have and the scale of your RC car. A good rule of thumb is:

1/10 scale RC cars: Need a larger track, typically around 50ft x 30ft or bigger.
1/16 or 1/18 scale RC cars: Can work well on smaller tracks, around 30ft x 20ft or smaller.

Of course, these are just guidelines. You can adjust the size to fit your space and preferences. Remember, it's better to start with a smaller track and expand it later than to try to build something too big and get overwhelmed.

Designing Your Dream Track

Now for the really fun part – designing your track! This is where you can let your creativity shine. Think about the kind of driving experience you want.

Consider your skill level: Are you a beginner or an experienced RC driver? If you're just starting out, it's best to keep the design simple with gentle curves and fewer obstacles. As you get more confident, you can add more challenging features.
Think about different track features: What kind of obstacles and features do you want to include? Here are some popular options:
- Jumps: A classic RC track feature! You can have small tabletops, doubles, or even larger jumps for more advanced drivers.
- Turns: Vary the types of turns – sweeping corners, hairpin turns, chicanes (a series of tight turns). This will make the track more interesting to drive.
- Straightaways: These are essential for building speed. Make sure you have enough straightaways to balance out the turns and obstacles.
- Bumps and whoops: These add a bit of challenge and excitement. You can create these with small mounds of dirt or sand.
Sketch out your design: Grab a piece of paper and sketch out a rough layout of your track. Don't worry about making it perfect – this is just to get your ideas down on paper. You can also use online track design tools for inspiration.

Pro Tip: Consider the Flow

A good RC track should have a natural flow. This means that the turns and obstacles should be placed in a way that allows you to maintain a good speed and rhythm. Think about how your RC car will move around the track and try to create a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

2. Gathering Your Materials and Tools for RC Track

Alright, you've got your track design sketched out, and you're buzzing with excitement. Now it's time to gather the materials and tools you'll need to bring your vision to life. Don't worry, you don't need a ton of fancy equipment for building your backyard RC track. Here's a breakdown of the essentials:

Essential Materials

Dirt/Clay: This is the foundation of your track. You'll need a good amount of dirt or clay to build up the track surface and create jumps and berms. You can often get free dirt from construction sites or landscaping companies. Alternatively, you can purchase clay from a garden center.
Sand (Optional): Sand can be mixed with the dirt to improve drainage and prevent the track from becoming too muddy. It's also great for creating soft landings for jumps.
Marking Materials: You'll need something to mark the boundaries of your track and the layout of the obstacles. Cones, flags, or even spray paint can work well.
Piping/Edging (Optional): Using PVC piping, wood planks, or other materials to create edging around the track can help define the lanes and prevent your RC car from running off course. It also gives the track a more professional look.
Obstacle Materials (Optional): If you're planning on building specific obstacles like jumps or ramps, you might need additional materials like plywood, lumber, or even plastic containers.

Must-Have Tools

Shovels and Rakes: These are your primary tools for moving dirt and shaping the track surface. A variety of sizes will come in handy.
Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow will make it much easier to transport large amounts of dirt and other materials around your yard.
Tamper or Plate Compactor (Optional): These tools are used to compact the dirt, making the track surface firmer and more durable. If you're building a large track or want a very smooth surface, a tamper or plate compactor is a good investment. You can often rent these from your local hardware store.
Measuring Tape: Essential for measuring out the track dimensions and marking the positions of obstacles.
Level: A level will help you ensure that your jumps and ramps are built at the correct angle.
Gloves: Protect your hands from blisters and dirt.
Safety Glasses: Keep your eyes safe from flying debris.

Optional but Helpful Tools

Power Tools: A power drill or circular saw can speed up the process if you're building wooden obstacles or edging.
Water Hose: Water can be used to moisten the dirt, making it easier to compact and shape.
Garden Hose with Spray Nozzle: This will be helpful for watering down the track surface, which helps to bind the dirt particles together and create a firmer surface. Watering the track also helps to prevent dust.

Where to Get Your Materials

Local Hardware Store: This is your one-stop shop for most of the tools and materials you'll need, including shovels, rakes, measuring tapes, levels, gloves, safety glasses, and lumber.
Garden Center: You can find clay, sand, and other landscaping materials at your local garden center.
Construction Sites/Landscaping Companies: As mentioned earlier, you can often get free dirt from these sources. Just be sure to ask permission before taking any dirt.
Online Retailers: You can find specialized RC track building materials, like premade jumps and obstacles, from online retailers.

3. Constructing Your RC Track: Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, you've got your plan, your materials, and your tools. It's go-time! Let's dive into the construction phase of building your awesome RC track. This is where the hard work and creativity come together to bring your vision to life. Remember, take your time, be patient, and have fun with it!

Step 1: Clear and Prep the Area

Just like a painter prepping a canvas, you need to prepare your ground before building. This step is important for a stable and long-lasting track.

Remove Debris: Clear away any rocks, sticks, weeds, or other debris from the track area. A clean surface will make it easier to work with the dirt and prevent damage to your RC car.
Level the Ground (If Necessary): If your yard is uneven, you may need to do some leveling. Use a shovel and rake to smooth out any bumps or dips. For larger areas, you might consider renting a plate compactor to create a level and compacted surface. This will provide a solid base for your track features.
Mark the Track Boundaries: Use your marking materials (cones, flags, spray paint) to mark the outline of your track. This will help you visualize the layout and ensure that you stay within your designated area.

Step 2: Build the Base and Layout

Now it's time to start shaping the track and creating the basic layout. This is like the skeleton of your track – it sets the foundation for everything else.

Start with the Main Lines: Use dirt or clay to create the main lines of your track – the straights, turns, and any major features like jumps. Use a shovel and rake to move the dirt and shape it roughly into the desired forms. Remember to keep the track width consistent to allow for smooth racing.
Create Berms for Turns: Berms are banked turns that allow you to maintain speed while cornering. To create a berm, pile up dirt on the outside of the turn, sloping it inwards. The steeper the berm, the more grip you'll have in the turn. Berms are super fun to drive on and add a professional touch to your track.
Rough in the Jumps: If you're including jumps in your design, now's the time to start building them. Start with smaller jumps and gradually increase the size as you gain confidence. Remember to consider the landing area when building your jumps – you'll want a smooth and slightly sloped landing to prevent damage to your RC car. The approach to the jump is just as important as the jump itself. Make sure the approach is smooth and level so you can hit the jump with consistent speed.

Step 3: Fine-Tune the Features

With the basic layout in place, it's time to fine-tune the features and add the details that will make your track unique and challenging.

Shape the Jumps: Refine the shape of your jumps, making sure they have a smooth takeoff and landing. Use a shovel and rake to create the desired curves and angles. Test the jumps with your RC car to ensure they're the right size and shape. Adjust as needed. A well-shaped jump will launch your car smoothly and predictably.
Smooth the Track Surface: Use a rake to smooth out the track surface, removing any bumps or ruts. A smooth surface will provide better traction and make your RC car easier to control. Pay special attention to the transition areas between different features, like the entry and exit of turns.
Add Texture (Optional): If you want to add some extra grip to the track, you can add a layer of sand or small gravel to the surface. This will help your RC car's tires bite into the track and improve traction.

Step 4: Compacting and Watering

Compacting and watering the track is crucial for creating a durable and long-lasting surface. This step helps to bind the dirt particles together and prevent the track from becoming too soft or dusty.

Compact the Dirt: Use a tamper or plate compactor to compact the dirt, especially in high-traffic areas like the turns and jumps. Compacting the dirt will make the track surface firmer and more resistant to erosion. If you don't have a compactor, you can also use a hand tamper or even just your feet to compact the dirt.
Water the Track: Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to water the track thoroughly. The water will help to bind the dirt particles together and create a more cohesive surface. Water the track in the evening so it has time to dry overnight. Be careful not to overwater the track, as this can make it muddy and difficult to drive on.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches and Test

Almost there! Now for the fun part – adding the finishing touches and giving your track a test run. This is the moment you've been waiting for!

Add Edging (Optional): If you're using edging, now's the time to install it. Edging can help to define the track boundaries and prevent your RC car from running off course. It also gives the track a more polished look. You can use PVC piping, wood planks, or other materials for edging.
Add Obstacles (Optional): If you've built any additional obstacles, like ramps or tires, place them on the track. Experiment with different obstacle placements to find the most challenging and fun configurations.
Test Drive Your Track: Grab your RC car and take your new track for a spin! This is the best way to identify any areas that need improvement. Pay attention to the flow of the track, the smoothness of the jumps, and the grip in the turns. Tweak the track as needed to optimize the driving experience.

4. Maintaining Your RC Track for Long-Lasting Fun

Congratulations, you've built your own RC track! But the work doesn't stop there. To keep your track in top condition and ensure long-lasting fun, you'll need to do some regular maintenance. Think of it like taking care of a real race track – a little maintenance goes a long way.

Regular Maintenance Tasks

Watering: Watering the track is essential for keeping the dirt compacted and preventing dust. Water the track regularly, especially during dry periods. The frequency of watering will depend on your climate and the type of soil you're using. A good rule of thumb is to water the track whenever the surface starts to look dry and dusty.
Sweeping/Raking: Sweep or rake the track surface regularly to remove loose dirt, debris, and any small rocks that may have accumulated. This will help to maintain a smooth and consistent driving surface. A stiff broom or a leaf rake works well for this task.
Repairing Ruts and Bumps: Over time, ruts and bumps can form on the track surface, especially in high-traffic areas like the turns and landings. Repair these as soon as you notice them to prevent them from getting worse. Use a shovel and rake to fill in the ruts and smooth out the bumps. Then, compact the repaired areas with a tamper or your feet.
Weed Control: Weeds can quickly take over an RC track if left unchecked. Regularly pull weeds or use a weed killer to keep your track clear. A well-maintained track not only looks better but also provides a smoother and more predictable driving surface.
Checking and Repairing Edging: If you've used edging on your track, check it regularly for damage. Repair any broken or loose edging to prevent your RC car from running off course.

Seasonal Maintenance

In addition to regular maintenance, you'll also need to perform some seasonal maintenance tasks to keep your track in top condition year-round.

Spring: After the winter, your track may need some serious TLC. Clear away any accumulated leaves or debris, repair any damage caused by frost or snow, and re-compact the surface. Spring is also a good time to add new dirt or clay to the track if needed.
Summer: During the summer, focus on watering and weed control. The hot weather can dry out the track quickly, so you'll need to water it more frequently. Regular weeding will prevent weeds from taking over the track.
Fall: In the fall, clear away any fallen leaves and prepare the track for winter. If you live in an area with harsh winters, you may want to cover the track with a tarp to protect it from snow and ice. This will help to prevent erosion and damage to the surface.
Winter: During the winter, there's not much you can do to maintain your track if it's covered in snow and ice. However, you can use this time to plan any major renovations or additions you want to make in the spring.

Pro Tip: Involve Your Friends!

Track maintenance can be a lot of work, so why not involve your friends? Organize a track maintenance day and make it a social event. You can all work together to get the track in top condition, and then enjoy some RC racing afterwards. This is a great way to bond with your friends and make sure your track stays awesome.

5. Level Up Your RC Track: Advanced Features and Ideas

So, you've mastered the basics of RC track building and maintenance. Your track is looking good, and you're having a blast driving on it. But why stop there? Let's take your track to the next level with some advanced features and ideas! This is where you can really get creative and personalize your track to your driving style and preferences.

Advanced Track Features

More Complex Jumps: Once you're comfortable with basic jumps, you can start building more challenging features like doubles, triples, and step-ups. These jumps require more speed and skill to clear, and they add a lot of excitement to the track. Doubles are two jumps in a row, while triples are three jumps in a row. Step-ups are jumps where the landing is higher than the takeoff.
Tabletops: Tabletops are flat-topped jumps that are great for practicing your air control. They're also a good option for beginner drivers, as they're less intimidating than traditional jumps. Tabletops provide a smooth and predictable landing, which is ideal for learning how to control your RC car in the air.
Whoops: Whoops are a series of small, closely spaced bumps that create a challenging rhythm section. They require a lot of suspension travel and precise throttle control to navigate smoothly. Whoops are a popular feature on motocross tracks, and they can add a similar level of excitement to your RC track.
Elevation Changes: Incorporating elevation changes into your track design can add a whole new dimension to the driving experience. You can create hills, valleys, and banked turns to make the track more challenging and interesting. Elevation changes can also improve the flow of the track and make it more fun to drive.
Tunnels and Underpasses: Building tunnels and underpasses can add a unique visual element to your track. They also create some interesting driving challenges, as you'll need to navigate tight spaces and blind corners. Tunnels can be made from PVC pipe, plywood, or even large plastic containers.

Creative Track Design Ideas

Themed Tracks: Why not give your track a theme? You could build a desert track with sand and cacti, a forest track with trees and rocks, or even a city track with buildings and streets. Themed tracks add a lot of visual appeal and can make the driving experience more immersive.
Night Racing: Add some lights to your track and race at night! This is a fun and unique way to experience your track. You can use spotlights, string lights, or even LED strips to illuminate the track. Night racing adds a whole new level of excitement and challenge.
Scale Details: Add some scale details to your track to make it look more realistic. You can use miniature buildings, trees, and other accessories to create a realistic environment. Scale details can add a lot of visual appeal to your track and make it more fun to drive on.
Track Markings and Signage: Add track markings and signage to help drivers navigate the track. You can use paint, tape, or even printed signs to mark the racing lines and warn drivers of upcoming obstacles. Track markings and signage can improve the safety and flow of the track.

Remember to Test and Adjust

The key to building an awesome advanced RC track is to experiment and have fun! Don't be afraid to try new things and see what works. Always test your track with your RC car and adjust the features as needed to optimize the driving experience. And most importantly, involve your friends and get their feedback. Building an RC track is a collaborative process, and you'll get the best results by working together.

So there you have it, folks! Everything you need to know to build your own epic RC track. From planning and design to construction and maintenance, we've covered it all. Now it's time to get out there, get your hands dirty, and create the ultimate backyard playground for your RC car. Happy building, and happy racing!