Snowmobile EXPO returns to West

WEST YELLOWSTONE TOURISM BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

WEST YELLOWSTONE – The annual Snowmobile EXPO and Powersports Show returns to West Yellowstone for a 26th year from March 10 through March 13.

EXPO combines a weekend of snowmobile and snowbike racing, motorcycle freestyle exhibitions, concerts on snow, and a snowmobile airshow, along with the premiere of manufacturers new 2017 snowmobile models. OHV’s, boats, trailers, RV’s, aftermarket parts and clothing will also be on display at the EXPO hall located at the West Yellowstone Holiday Inn Conference Center.

“It’s the best end-of-season power sports weekend in the West,” said Marge Wanner, West Yellowstone Chamber snowmobile events coordinator. “EXPO is kind of like a family reunion – people bring their friends, look at new stuff and come to have a good time.”

National circuit snow bike racing is new for this year’s EXPO. Snow Bike MX will present Round #3 National Snow Bike Race Series with plenty of knock-down, bar-banging, jaw-dropping, ski-to-ski action featuring fast guys on fast bikes. Practice starts March 13 at 9 a.m., and the racing begins at 10 a.m. There will also be on-site demo rides available for those 18 and over.

Arctic Cat manufacturer reps and regional dealerships will also be offering the public a chance to not only look at their new 2017 models, but to ride them.

Vintage snowmobiles and vintage racing are more popular than ever, and EXPO provides the opportunity to see both. The 13th annual Vintage Snowmobile Exhibit and Show returns on Saturday March 12, hosted by Western States Vintage Snowmobile Association, and is located at the EXPO Race Track on Iris Street.

This annual show, competition and display is one of the largest gatherings of vintage and antique snowmobiles in the West with U.S. and Canadian participants from across the “snow belt.” This year’s featured year class is 1975. Prizes and special awards will be presented for People’s Choice, Best of Show, and WSVSA Sled of the Year.

Mountain West Racing vintage racing return again with expanded classes, races, and a specially designed, oval racecourse. MWR Vintage Snowmobile Oval Races start Friday at noon with two qualifiers and finals starting at 2:30 p.m. Saturday races will follow the same schedule. Classes will include stock and mod single cylinder; 340 and 440 fan cooled; 340 and 440 free air; 440 Early Fan (74 and Older); 340 L/C Mod; and 440 L/C Mod.

Races are limited to snowmobiles from 1980 and earlier. MWR will also run Junior SnoCross racing includes Junior 10-13, Transition 300, and Transition 500. Junior SnoCross classes are offered Friday and Saturday mornings.

The 120 Western Grand Championship brings upcoming super stars together to own the 2016 “Champion 120 Title.” Racing 120 cc snowmobiles is special for all youngsters who can compete in three different classes: 120 stock, speed limited, and 120 Champ. Kids from 4-12 years old have a chance to try racing for the first time or gain experience.

Kids coming to EXPO can try out their own kid-sized snowmobiles with free M120 snowmobile rides. Stop at the M120 demo track located just south of the Vintage Snowmobile Show area on Iris Street. These rides are no charge and for kids from five to ten years of age offered on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information about lodging options, restaurants, shops, snowmobile rentals, and other winter activities, visit yellowstonedestination.com or call (406) 646-7701.