ST. MARYS — For Bob Kirchner, snowmobiling has never been just about riding; it’s been about the people, the places and the passion that fuels the sport. It is far more than a hobby. It’s a lifelong passion.

“Snowmobiling opens the winter world to folks and families who want to enjoy the exhilaration of the ride — the physical experience is unlike any other form of motorsports,” Kirchner said, “take in scenery and wildlife viewing that one can only experience under cover of snow, and experience a camaraderie with like-minded individuals that is unique in today’s keyboard world.”

Bob Kirchner

His journey from a young enthusiast to nationwide leader has left an indelible mark on the snowmobiling community. As he prepares to be inducted in the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame (ISHOF), Kirchner’s legacy will stand as a testament to what dedication, heart and love for the trail can achieve.

He will be recognized with the Volunteer & Club Organizers Award during inductee weekend Sept. 19 to 20 at ISHOF headquarters in Eagle River, Wisc. Founded in 1984 by Elmer Cone of Bovey, Minn., the nonprofit ISHOF promotes the recognition of the recreational and historical aspects of the sport of snowmobiling.

“I was always surrounded by a supportive family that gave me the freedom to be involved in snowmobile leadership,” Kirchner stated. “My colleagues were helpful and collaborative. I’ve received this honor because of those circumstances and will forever be grateful to all those involved in this fun sport.”

Kirchner has been snowmobiling since he bought his first sled in 1979. In 1990, a work transfer brought Bob and his wife, Kathy, to St. Marys where Bob continued his love of snowmobiling and joined the St. Marys Snowmobile Association (SMASA). He and his wife remain members more than 30 years later. In addition to SMASA, he and his family hold membership to several other Pennsylvania snowmobile clubs.

From his early involvement with snowmobile associations to being a founding member of St. Marys’ West Creek Recreational Trail Association, Kirchner has consistently championed the interests of fellow enthusiasts. His efforts ensured that snowmobiling was thoughtfully included in the development of that trail system, ultimately allowing for a through-ride from the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon to Erie County.

His journey on the national stage began in 1997, when he attended his first International Snowmobile Congress. Since then, he has remained a steadfast presence at the event, year after year.

In 2005, Bob was elected president of the Pennsylvania State Snowmobile Association (PSSA), serving until 2008. His leadership extended far beyond state lines. He held numerous influential roles in the snowmobiling community of northwestern Pennsylvania, including serving on the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Snowmobile/ATV Advisory Committee for several years.

Kirchner’s impact continued to grow nationally. He was elected vice president of the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA) in 2013 and 2014 and then served as president in both 2015 and 2016, helping to shape the future of snowmobiling across the country.

Kirchner remains deeply involved with DCNR. In 2022, he was appointed to a leadership role where he recommended key changes to Pennsylvania’s Snowmobile and ATV funding measures, advocating for improvements that benefit riders statewide.

“In general, but particularly with volunteer organizations, my philosophy always was — if you have an idea for change in a situation you have to be willing to step in and do the work necessary to see the process through,” Kirchner said. “The old axiom ‘The world is run by those who show up’ are words I tried to live by.”

He cited the Willow Creek Snowmobile Club as an example.

“Some leaders saw a need to groom snowmobile trails when help was needed on the Allegheny National Forest and surrounds,” he shared. “The club was formed and in less than a decade they now own and operate three groomers — greatly enhancing the riding experience, and consequential economic impact, for much of McKean County.”

Kirchner’s contributions have been recognized with honors and appointments. In 2023, Kirchner was accepted into the prestigious Iron Dog Brigade. In 2024, he joined the Board of Directors for the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame. By 2025, he was invited to serve on its bylaws committee.

He continues to volunteer at the local, state and national levels, working tirelessly to promote and advance the sport he loves. Surrounded by family, friends, and fellow snowmobilers, Kirchner’s moment in Eagle River will be a celebration of a life lived in motion on the snow.

ISHOF has been honoring inductees in recognition of their achievements in the sport of snowmobiling for 36 years. For more information about ISHOF, visit ishof.com.