According to a press release from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, an expected 100,000+ visitors are expected to be visiting the Brainerd area this weekend.

The 2018 Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals are this weekend in Brainerd. The gates open Thursday morning at 7 a.m. for people that aren’t camping. That means now through Sunday, things are going to get crazy in the 218.

MNDOT had to even put out a press release about the influx of people that will be in the area and to expect traffic congestion until Sunday. The press release mentions how people need to plan ahead.

Motorists planning to travel in the Brainerd/Baxter area should be patient, expect delays, consider staggering their travel times and watch for slow traffic on Highway 371 and other area roadways. Recurring congestion and occasional stop-and-go traffic is expected on Highway 371 between Brainerd and Nisswa. Motorists are advised to take alternative routes and avoid the area, if possible.

Sounds like a great weekend for me to stay FAR away from Highway 371 this weekend.