During the cold dark days of mid-February, it is nice to get out and enjoy some of the spectacular scenery the Inland Northwest has to offer in the winter. A great weekend to consider venturing to Priest Lake—one of the most picturesque venues in our area—is Presidents Day weekend as the Priest Lake Vintage Snowmobile racers host their second and last race for this year on Sunday, February 19. The first race was held in February 2014 at the Inn at Priest Lake in Coolin, Idaho, with approximately 25 entries and quite a few spectators. The races for 2015 had to be cancelled due to unseasonably warm weather. In 2016, there were two races after they successfully moved the races to the current location on the west side of Priest Lake. Since the move, the races have drastically gained in popularity. The January race last year had 86 entries coming from as far away as Utah, Oregon, and the February race last year garnered 123 entries and 500-700 spectators. They are expecting upwards of 100 vintage snowmobiles at this year’s events.

Competition, nostalgia, fun and even some laughter ensues as several classes and age groups take the stage for some tough competition on the oval 1/3-mile track held at the Priest Lake Airstrip near the Ranger Station (close to Nordman, Idaho). The snowmobiles vary greatly in age and power (most run 40-60 mph) so there are classes designated to even the playing field a bit. The snowmobiles do have a few restrictions: they must be 1985 or older and independent suspension is not allowed (leaf springs only). There are classes for Juniors as well as Women’s classes.

If you have an older snowmobile and want to test your skills on the track, this is a perfect opportunity. There are some general rules such as: all sleds must have tethers, full face helmets are advised with goggles or face shield, as well as upper body protection. Track run up stands are required. No lifting of sleds is allowed. Racers can pre-register at Hills Resort Saturday night from 6-8 p.m., otherwise race day registration is from 8-10 a.m. Racing starts at 11 am. Racing is only $20 to pre-enter and $25 if you register the morning of the races. Cash and trophies go to the winners.

Race weekend falls a few days after Valentine’s Day, so its best to make lodging reservations sooner than later if you plan on staying for the weekend.

Grab your lawnchairs (you can opt to stand as well), bundle up in your warm winter clothes, and head out to the vintage snowmobile races for some solid family fun (free to spectators) in the beautiful winter wonderland of Priest Lake, Idaho.

If you have any questions about the races you can check out their Facebook page, website at vintagesnowmobileracingpriestlake.com or contact race director Mike Courtreau at (509) 599-5539 or [email protected]

Priest Lake Area Lodging
Hills Resort: (208) 443-2551
Elkins Resort: (208) 443-2432
Inn at Priest Lake: (208) 443-2447

Michele Martin is a local motor sports enthusiast and photographer born and raised in Spokane. She can be reached at [email protected]