A Legacy of Passion, Community, and Racing

Before 2008, the small town of Elk River, Minnesota, had little to offer those passionate about extreme sports. While hockey rinks, baseball fields, and basketball courts dotted the landscape, the town lacked a space for kids and families involved in motorsports. This gap in the community sparked an idea that would eventually become ERX Motor Park—a year-round motorsports and events haven and a place for the community to come together, celebrate, and grow.

The Early Days: A Vision for the Future

The roots of ERX can be traced back to two local men—Chris Carlson and Todd Plaisted—who were deeply involved in the snocross world.  Both men had children who shared their love for the sport, and together, they formed a tight-knit family of racers. While many kids in the area were engaged in traditional ball-and-stick sports like hockey or baseball, Chris and Todd’s children were drawn to the snow and dirt, a passion that connected the family and kept them together.

Recognizing the lack of a dedicated facility in Elk River for kids interested in motorsports, Chris and Todd envisioned a space where young racers could hone their skills, train, and pursue their dreams. They saw the importance of providing an alternative for kids who didn’t fit the traditional sports mold and wanted a place to go fast and learn.

In 2008, their vision began to take shape when they discovered a 13-acre plot of land just north of Elk River, off Highway 169. It was here that the seeds of ERX were planted. With a shared love for racing and a desire to give back to their community, Chris and Todd decided to start a business and create a Snocross training facility.

The Evolution of ERX: More Than Just Snocross

What began as a Snocross training facility quickly became much more. From day one, Chris and Todd had a clear vision: to create a place where racers could sharpen their skills while offering the entire Elk River community a space to gather, connect, and celebrate motorsports. As ERX grew, it became more than just a training ground – it evolved into a hub for racing and recreation, hosting Snocross and short-course off-road racing, trail rides, swap meets, concerts, and events supporting local charities.  

The land was still raw and undeveloped when the park opened, but Chris and Todd’s commitment never wavered. Through years of hard work and dedication, ERX expanded into a world-class motorsports park spanning 500 acres. Today, it boasts a premier Snocross track, extensive trails, a dynamic off-road course, and open spaces ready to transform into demo areas for SxSs and off-road vehicles.  

Yet, ERX is more than just a place for motorsports – it’s an integral part of the community. With a growing list of events, charitable initiatives, and partnerships, the park has become a destination for families, volunteers, and fans from all walks of life. One of its most beloved events, the Ditchbanger National, held each winter, is the largest snocross race in the country, inviting riders to dust off their sleds and experience the thrill of competition. Another highlight, the Day of the Dozers, benefits Children’s of Minnesota, giving kids an unforgettable opportunity to climb into actual heavy equipment and operate it with a trained professional.

The transformation of ERX has been nothing short of remarkable. What started as a dream has become a place where passion, adrenaline, and community spirit collide – bringing people together, creating lifelong memories, and ensuring that the love of racing continues for generations.

A Labor of Love, Not Profit

From the very beginning, ERX has been about passion, not profit. Despite the significant investments poured into the park, Chris and Todd have never received a return on their efforts. Instead, they have reinvested millions back into the facility, driven by their deep love for racing and commitment to providing a space that enriches the Elk River community. For them, ERX isn’t just a business—it’s a legacy built on passion, dedication, and the desire to give back.

Looking Ahead: A Growing Legacy

The future of ERX holds incredible potential, but its continued success depends on the support of racers, fans, and the community. Over the years, Chris, Todd and their families and teams have poured their hearts into making ERX a premier motorsports destination – a place where passion meets opportunity, where families gather, and where racing dreams come to life. But for that legacy to thrive, it takes more than just dedication from those behind the scenes; it takes the racers showing up, the fans filling the stands and the community embracing everything ERX has to offer.

ERX is more than just a racetrack—it’s a place built for the people who love this sport. The doors are open, the tracks are ready, and the future can be bright—but only if the community steps up to keep the dream alive.