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The End Of The Race: What Happened To Traxx Indoor Raceway In Mukilteo, WA?

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The iconic roar of engines has gone silent at 4329 Chennault Beach Road. As of late 2023/early 2024, Traxx Indoor Raceway, a beloved fixture in Mukilteo, Washington, has ceased operations at its long-time location, marking the end of a thrilling 24-year run. This update is crucial for anyone searching for the adrenaline-pumping go-kart experience, as the facility is no longer open for races at its original site, with the entire business now up for sale in a bid to find a new owner and a fresh start.

The closure of the physical track is not a sudden failure but rather a planned transition driven by the retirement of its dedicated owners and the ever-increasing cost of commercial real estate. The story of Traxx is a testament to the longevity of a family-run entertainment business, and its future remains a hopeful question mark for the entire Snohomish County community. Here is an in-depth look at the legacy of Traxx Indoor Raceway and the current status of the business.

The Legacy of Traxx: A 24-Year History of Speed and Family Fun

Traxx Indoor Raceway was more than just a go-kart track; it was a regional institution and one of the longest-running indoor racing tracks in the country. For nearly a quarter-century, the facility provided a high-octane escape for families, thrill-seekers, and racing enthusiasts across Mukilteo, Everett, and the greater Seattle area. The business was built on a foundation of passion and community spirit by its long-time owners, Jan and Rick Wanzer.

The Wanzers cultivated an environment where both novice drivers and seasoned racers could experience the thrill of speed in a safe, indoor setting. Their commitment to the business was evident in the track’s continuous operation, often being open over 100 hours a week, closing only for major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving. The business model was a success, catering to a wide audience through diverse attractions.

Key Features and Attractions That Defined Traxx

While the business is famous for its go-karts, the facility offered a multi-faceted entertainment experience that cemented its status as a premier destination in the area. The core attraction was, of course, the track itself, known for its challenging layout and high-performance karts.

  • High-Performance Go-Karts: The facility featured a fleet of high-performance karts, often numbering around 32, designed to deliver a genuine racing feel for adults. Race sessions typically lasted 8 minutes, covering approximately 15–20 laps, providing a short but intense burst of speed.
  • The Track Design: Traxx was renowned for its multi-level design, which included an iconic go-kart bridge that added a unique element of challenge and excitement to the indoor circuit.
  • Youth and Adult Tracks: To ensure safety and appropriate speed levels, the raceway operated separate tracks or designated times for different age groups, including a dedicated Youth Track and an Adult Track.
  • Diverse Racing Events: Traxx catered to serious racers by hosting various competitive events, including formats based on NASCAR, sprint racing, drift racing, and AutoX. This focus on diverse racing styles helped build a loyal community of racing fans.
  • Additional Entertainment: Over the years, the venue expanded its offerings to become a complete entertainment center, featuring attractions such as a rope course, ziplines, and even axe throwing, though the go-karts remained the main draw.
  • Community Hub: The raceway was a popular venue for birthday parties, corporate team-building events, and community fundraisers, making it a true social hub for Snohomish County residents.

The facility was located at 4329 Chennault Beach Rd, Mukilteo, WA 98275, strategically positioned near the Everett/Lynnwood border, making it easily accessible to a massive customer base in the region.

The Current Status: Why Traxx Indoor Raceway is For Sale

The decision to close the Mukilteo location and put the entire business up for sale stems from a combination of personal and financial factors. After 24 years of dedicated service, owners Jan and Rick Wanzer decided it was time to turn in their keys and retire, eager to begin the next phase of their lives.

However, the retirement was coupled with a significant business challenge: the rising cost of rent. The Wanzers had the option to extend their lease at the Chennault Beach Road location but chose not to, citing the high expenses. This financial pressure, combined with their desire to retire, led to the decision to sell the business as a complete, relocatable package.

What is Included in the Sale?

The sale of Traxx Indoor Raceway is a unique opportunity for a new entrepreneur to take over a recognized and long-running brand. The deal includes the essential assets needed to restart the business in a new location, preserving the Traxx legacy. The package includes:

  • 32 Go-Karts: A full fleet of high-performance racing vehicles.
  • 66 Helmets: All necessary safety gear for operation.
  • Corvette Couches: Unique, themed furniture that contributed to the facility's distinctive atmosphere.
  • The Business Model and Brand: The established name, operational procedures, and goodwill built over two decades.

The Wanzers are hopeful that the new owners will find a suitable new location, preferably in south Snohomish County, to serve the existing customer base that has supported Traxx for so long. The goal is not a permanent closure but a relocation and continuation under new management.

What’s Next for Indoor Racing in Snohomish County?

The closure of the physical Traxx location leaves a noticeable gap in the indoor entertainment and racing scene in the Mukilteo and Everett areas. For many years, Traxx was the undisputed champion of indoor go-kart racing in the region, offering an experience that was exhilarating for all ages. The community now eagerly awaits news of a potential buyer and a new site.

The future of Traxx Indoor Raceway is entirely dependent on finding a buyer who can secure a large commercial space to house the track and its assets. The challenge lies in replicating the scale and excitement of the original facility, including the famous go-kart bridge, in a new, cost-effective location. The Wanzers’ retirement marks an end of an era, but the hope remains that the Traxx name—a symbol of speed, competition, and family fun—will soon live on in a new venue, continuing its legacy for a new generation of racers in Washington State.

For those seeking the next great indoor adventure, the closure of Traxx means exploring alternative local entertainment options. However, the unique, long-standing appeal of Traxx Indoor Raceway ensures that its 24 years of providing exhilarating fun will not be quickly forgotten by the Mukilteo community.

The End of the Race: What Happened to Traxx Indoor Raceway in Mukilteo, WA?
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