A Longtime Dream Becomes Reality – NW Museum of Vintage Snowmobiles

When Jerry Kienbaum purchased a one cylinder Polaris Mustang in 1966, he didn't know it would be the beginning of a five decade love affair with snowmobiling.  And his passion for the sport is still going strong.  Last year, Jerry and his wife Janice opened the Northwest Museum of Vintage Snowmobiles in Spokane Valley, Washington.

The museum is packed with over 100 antique, vintage and classic sleds from more than 25 different manufacturers. Whether you're interested in trail sleds, race sleds, pushers or rare one-of-a-kind machines, the museum has something for everyone.

Polaris fans will want to check out the 1958 Sno Traveler on display, or the 1963 Sno Traveler with its original Polaris Industries trailer.

The stunning Mercury room, devoted to Sno Twisters and Trail Twisters, features one of every model manufactured from 1974 to 1976, including one of six Super Mod SM II’s, the sled Stan Hayes rode to many racing victories.

The museum contains quite a few machines you simply won't be able to see anywhere else. Walking through the aisles, you may happen upon a Leschasen rear engine sled, a one-of-a-kind built in Canada.  Or a 1968 Yamaha prototype SL350, the first snowmobile made by the Japanese, an un-restored original.

Other attractions include a collection of snowmobile memorabilia spanning 50 years, including lighted signs, vintage clothing, banners, antique posters and photos, rare engines, manuals, NOS parts in their original boxes and much more.  There is also an area set aside for exciting guest displays - who knows what sleds will be there during your visit!

As a reminder of how everything started for him, Jerry has purchased and restored a '66 Polaris Mustang, which is also on display in the museum.  After all, you never forget your first love.

The NW Museum of Vintage Snowmobiles is located at 19013 E. Alki in Spokane Valley, Washington  (just 20 miles west of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho - site of the July 2008 VSCA National Show - show info at www.wsvsa.com).

For more information or a guided tour, CALL Jerry at (509) 220-7091, EMAIL This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the museum BLOG at www.nwmovs.blogspot.com.