Each fall, a passionate group of Land Cruiser owners converge on Tooele, Utah at the Miller Motorsports Park for CruiserFest. 2013 was a banner year, drawing Toyota enthusiasts from as far as Venezuela, South Africa and Canada. The event has a casual and community feel, representing both well-used and impeccably-restored Land Cruisers. The cornerstone and founder of the event is Greg Miller, a true Land Cruiser aficionado, and curator of the Land Cruiser Heritage Museum, its facility located within the motor sports park. Greg’s collection is extensive, including many rare and original models from the history of this iconic brand. My compliments to Greg, Anne Marie, Kurt Williams of Cruiser Outfitters and all of the other volunteers that made this event possible!
A broad spectrum of Land Cruisers were represented in the outside display area:
Some of these Land Cruisers have been owned for decades and used throughout the Southwest and beyond.
Overland Journal’s much-loved LJ78 project was on display, including a new Front Runner slimline rack.
My personal favorite from the show, a 1991 HZJ77, fresh from a week-long adventure through the backcountry of Utah. I love the fact that it is well used and arrived unwashed.
This high-roof 60 series is pretty sweet. Just needs some funky 8.25 R16 tires. Oh, and never repaint those sweet stripes.
Drool (that is all)
One of the last customer builds for Proffitt’s Cruisers, a stunning 45 pickup.
The Festivities:
In addition to the fantastic line-up of vehicles, the event included an art exhibit, classes on cooking in the field, field repair, expedition vehicle preparation and adventure photography. There were two group dinners, both hosted by the event founder, Greg Miller. Greg presented his travels with Expeditions 7 to the attendees on Friday night.
The art exhibit
Attendees are well fed.
The Land Cruiser Heritage Museum:
The museum is a literal feast for the Land Cruiser lover, with both tastefully modified, stock and unrestored cruisers lining the walls.
A 90 Series Prado and an LJ78 Prado are included. Greg’s goal is to have a factory-stock example of every Land Cruiser made.
Dream trucks abound (featured in Overland Journal, Summer 2013)
One of my personal favorites, a clean and thoughtfully restored FJ45 pickup.
These older Land Cruisers just inspire adventure
One of the most rare Land Cruisers in the US, believed to be the first unit imported to North America.
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