The Mello Yello teams travel high and deep into the Rocky Mountains to more than 5,800 feet, where the altitude affects everything from engine tune-ups to aerodynamics, to kick off the traditional three-week Western Swing. Crews must make changes to established power-making combinations and battle lack of downforce to tackle the environs. The event is a testament to the skill and adaptability of the racers.

How to Get There: The track is 10 miles west of Denver just north of the ­historic town of Morrison. From Denver, take Interstate 70 west to C-470 and travel south to either the Alameda exit west to Rooney Road and go south to the track or take the Morrison Road exit west to Rooney Road and go north to the track.

Visitor Information: Denver Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau, 303-892-1112; West Chamber Serving Jefferson County, 303-233-5555; Greater Golden Chamber of Commerce, 303-279-3113; Rooney Valley Association, 303-233-5555, www.rooneyvalleycolorado.org