2018 Information Package for Visitors & Volunteers - Yukon Quest
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2018
Information Package
for Visitors &
Volunteers
1
Contents
2018 RACE CALENDAR ...................................................................................................... 5
RACE APPROXIMATION SCHEDULES ............................................................................................................................................... 6
EVENTS AROUND THE 2018 YUKON QUEST.................................................................... 7
IN FAIRBANKS, ALASKA ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
IN DAWSON, YUKON .................................................................................................................................................................... 8
IN WHITEHORSE, YUKON .............................................................................................................................................................. 8
WHAT HAPPENS AT CHECKPOINTS? ...............................................................................9
ALASKA CHECKPOINTS: SERVICES AND DRIVING INFORMATION ......................................................................................................... 10
YUKON CHECKPOINTS: SERVICES AND DRIVING INFORMATION .......................................................................................................... 13
CHART - DISTANCES BETWEEN YUKON QUEST TRAIL LOCATIONS ...................................................................................................... 17
TRAVELING THE YUKON QUEST .................................................................................... 18
IN ALASKA................................................................................................................................................................................. 18
TRAVEL BETWEEN FAIRBANKS AND WHITEHORSE ......................................................................................................................... 20
IN YUKON................................................................................................................................................................................. 20
PACKING LIST/WHAT TO BRING .................................................................................... 21
CLOTHING .................................................................................................................................................................................. 21
RENTALS / PURCHASE OF GEAR..................................................................................................................................................... 21
LIST OF ITEMS TO CONSIDER BRINGING WITH YOU ............................................................................................................................22
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................... 212
TRAVEL RESOURCES ....................................................................................................................................................................22
2
WAYS OF SUPPORTING THE YUKON QUEST ................................................................ 23
MEMBERSHIP .............................................................................................................................................................................23
START & DRAW BANQUET TICKETS IN FAIRBANKS ..........................................................................................................................23
FINISH & AWARDS BANQUET & SILENT AUCTION IN WHITEHORSE ..................................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
MERCHANDISE .......................................................................................................................................................................... 24
VOLUNTEERING WITH THE YUKON QUEST .................................................................. 25
BENEFITS ...................................................................................................................................................................................25
NOTES ON RECRUITMENT AND PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................................... 26
E XAMPLES O F P OSITIONS .......................................................................................................................................................27
IN FAIRBANKS DURING START WEEK ............................................................................................................................................ 28
AT CHECKPOINTS DURING THE RACE ............................................................................................................................................ 28
IN WHITEHORSE DURING FINISH WEEK ........................................................................................................................................ 28
TESTIMONIALS........................................................................................................................................................................... 29
Information also available on our website
2018 race info and rules (Yukon Quest and YQ300)
List of 2018 Mushers with their profiles
History of the Yukon Quest and Sled dogs in the North
Online stores
Membership Applications
3
Welcome to the 35th Annual
Yukon Quest 1,000 Mile International Dog Sled Race!
We are very excited and looking forward to seeing you in Fairbanks, Alaska for the Official Start on Saturday,
February 3rd, along the trail or for Finish Week in Whitehorse, Yukon between February 12h and 18th, 2018.
This package provides an overview of the Yukon Quest, as well as volunteer information for the 2018 Race. In
this package you will find maps, checkpoint descriptions, tips on clothing and weather, hotel discounts, etc. If
you still have questions or concerns after reading this document, please contact either Yukon Quest office.
Yukon Office Alaska Office
Laura Vinnedge Maria “Frog” Roberts
#2-1109 Front Street 550 First Avenue
Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4 Fairbanks, AK 99701
Phone: 867. 668.4711 Phone: 907.452.7954
Fax: 907.452.7959
Email: yukonoperations@yukonquest.com Email: alaskaoperations@yukonquest.com
4
2018 Race Calendar ~ February
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
28 29 30 31 1 2 3
START WEEK IN FAIRBANKS
START WEEK IN WHITEHORSESTART DAY!
Meet the Start
Mushers Banquet
Yukon Quest
Alpine Lodge Westmark 11am
Glacier Room Gold Room
YQ300
6:30pm/ Free 5 / $70 USD 3pm
Chena River
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
APPROX. DAWSON CITY LAY-OVER
YQ 300
Finish
Banquet
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Free FINISH WEEK IN WHITEHORSE: QUEST FEST SPONSORED BY AIR NORTH
Mushing AT THE OLD FIRE HALL
Rides & Meet the Finish &
Dignitaries’ Mushers Awards
Race Banquet
Mount
Shipyards Park McIntyre Yukon
6:30pm/ Free Convention
Weather Center
Permitting
5pm / $85 CAD
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28
* Whitehorse and Fairbanks Volunteer Party – TBA
5
Race Approximation Schedules
2018 Race Schedule
Approximation
Estimated Arrival & Departure
Times
As of 7/17/17
Approx Date & Time of Arrival
Minimum
Checkpoints/ Miles
Mandatory
Dog Drops from
Layover
Last CP First Musher Arrival Last Musher Depart
Fairbanks - - - Sat Feb 3 11:00
Two Rivers
73 Sat Feb 3 18:00 Sun Feb 4 13:00
(Mile 53)
4hrs
Mile 101 41 Sun Feb 4 02:00 Sun Feb 4 20:00
OR
Central 28 4hrs Sun Feb 4 10:30 Mon Feb 5 12:30
Circle City 74 Mon Feb 5 00:00 Tues Feb 6 10:00
Slaven’s Cabin 60 Mon Feb 5 13:00 Wed Feb 7 07:30
Eagle 100 4 hrs Tue Feb 6 04:00 Fri Feb 9 03:30
Dawson City 150 36 hrs Wed Feb 7 13:00 Mon Feb 12 02:00
Scroggie Creek 105 Fri Feb 9 18:30 Tues Feb 13 22:00
Pelly Crossing 105 Sat Feb 10 14:00 Fri Feb 16 01:30
McCabe Creek 34 Sat Feb 10 22:30 Fri Feb 16 14:00
Carmacks 39 Sun Feb 11 02:00 Sat Feb 17 02:00
Braeburn 77 8 hrs Sun Feb 11 18:00 Sun Feb 18 03:30
Whitehorse 100 Mon Feb 12 13:00 -
Note: Starting time differentials (3 min between teams) are adjusted either in Mile 101 or Central depending
on the musher’s choice.
*These are estimated arrival and departure times based on previous statistics. Keep in mind that this is an
approximation; the route can change or something else can happen to throw these times off.
6
2018 YQ300 Race Schedule Approximation
Estimated Arrival & Departure
Times
As of 7/17/17
Date & Time of Arrival
Approx Minimum
Checkpoints/
Miles from Mandatory
Dog Drops Last CP Layover First Musher
Last Musher Depart
arrival
Fairbanks - - - Sat Feb 3 15:00
Two Rivers (Mile Feb 3
73 Sat Sun Feb 4 10:00
53) 22:00
Feb 4
Mile 101 41 Sun Mon Feb 5 08:00
06:00
Feb 4
Central 28 6 hours Sun Mon Feb 5 20:00
11:00
Feb 5
Circle City 74 Mon Tues Feb 6 13:30
03:30
Feb 5
Circle City Finish 80 Mon
16:00
Note: Starting time differentials (3 min between teams) are adjusted in
Central
*These are estimated arrival and departure times based on previous statistics. Keep in mind that this is an
approximation; the route can change or something else can happen to throw these times off.
7
Events Around the 2018 Yukon Quest
2018 Start Week Events – Fairbanks
Alpine Lodge
Come and meet the 2018 mushers! This is your chance to get an
Wednesday Meet the autograph and a picture with your favorite musher! All welcome. No
January 31 Mushers entry fee. Race merchandise available for purchase.
6:30pm
Westmark Hotel
Get in the spirit of the Yukon Quest as the 2018 race gets into full
Thursday Start & Draw swing with the event that brings people together from around the
February 1 Banquet world. Dress is a combination of dressy AND casual. Tickets cost $70
USD and are available through the Fairbanks office.
5-10pm
Chena River in downtown Fairbanks ~ 11am
Yukon Quest 8-11am ~ Teams get ready before the start
Saturday RACE START 11am ~ First team departs from the start chute
11am-12:30pm ~ Remaining teams depart at three minute intervals)
February 3 Chena River in downtown Fairbanks ~ 3pm
YQ300 1-3pm ~ Teams get ready before the start
RACE START 3pm ~ First team departs from the start chute
3-4:30pm ~ Remaining teams depart at three minute intervals
In Dawson City – 36 hour Layover
Dawson City goes dog crazy! Witness as the mushers finish the
February Dawson City first half of the race and check into their mandatory 36 hour
Approx 7 ~ 12 Layover layover to rest.
Volunteer & Dawson City – Venue TBA
Date TBA Food, drinks and prizes to thank all our volunteers and the
Community
Dawson community for their support!
Party 6-9pm
8
2018 Finish Week Events – Whitehorse
Bring the family out to Shipyards Park for free mushing ride
around the park! Then sit by the fireplace in the Frank Slims
Sunday Mushing Rides Building with some hot chocolate and cookies. Children dog sled
February 14 rides provided by Muktuk Adventures and Sky High Wilderness
for Children Ranch.
10:30am-3:30pm
Don’t miss the 2018 Quest Fest at the Old Fire Hall on Front
February Street right next to our headquarters! Come and visit our Yukon
12 - 16 Quest Fest Quest gift shop, kids’ corner, movies, live coverage of the race,
food and warm drinks for our volunteers.
Mon-Fri hours vary (see schedule posted online)
Yukon Quest Race Headquarters
The first teams are expected to reach Whitehorse on Monday,
February RACE FINISH
th
February 12 . Cheer on mushers and their dogs as they cross the
Approx 12 ~ 18 Yukon Quest Finish Line at the end of this incredible 1,000-mile
adventure! Teams are expected to continue arriving up until
th
Tuesday, February 18 .
Mt McIntyre – Grey Mountain Room
Friday Meet the
Come and meet the 2018 mushers! This is your chance to get an
February 16 autograph and a picture with your favorite musher! All welcome.
Mushers No entry fee. Race merchandise available for purchase.
7:00-10:00pm
Yukon Convention Centre
An evening of entertainment including musher awards, silent
Saturday Finish & Awards auction, buffet dinner and more. Take home great items from
February 17 Banquet our Yukon Quest Store. Tickets cost $85 CAD and are available
through the Whitehorse office.
5:00-10:00pm
Yukon Office Alaska Office
Laura Vinnedge Maria “Frog” Roberts
#2-1109 Front Street 550 First Avenue
Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 5G4 Fairbanks, AK 99701
Phone: 867. 668.4711 Phone: 907.452.7954
Email: yukonoperations@yukonquest.com Fax: 907.452.7959
Email:alaskaoperations@yukonquest.com
9
What Happens at Checkpoints?
There are 9 checkpoints along the trail, plus the start and finish lines. Visitors are welcome at the official Yukon Quest
Checkpoints along the trail, although access and services can be very limited.
The 2018 race begins in Fairbanks and travels through five Alaska checkpoints: Two Rivers, Mile 101, Central, Circle City
and Eagle. Mushers cross the border and travel through four Yukon checkpoints: Dawson City, Pelly Crossing, Carmacks,
and Braeburn. Nine to 16 days worth of excitement then culminates in Whitehorse at the Finish Line.
Mushers must personally check in and out of each checkpoint before going on. The time into each checkpoint is recorded
upon the teams’ arrival and their required gear is checked. Mushers are allowed to access their food drop bags and teams
are evaluated by a Yukon Quest Veterinarian at each checkpoint. Dogs unable to continue the race may be left in the care
of the veterinary team at any checkpoint along the trail. Mushers can access supplies including their food drop bags, straw
for bedding the dogs, water, food, and a designated place to rest, as well as gain valuable information including trail and
weather conditions. Checkpoints are where dogs get most of their rest and medical care from the veterinarian team,
and therefore no visitors or volunteers are allowed in the dog yards.
What are Dog Drops?
Dog Drops are designated places along the trail where mushers can “drop” a dog if he is injured or not doing well. Unlike
checkpoints, mushers are not required to stop at a dog drop, nor are they able to resupply their sled. The YQ Vet Team
takes care of the dog and has the dog transported to the next checkpoint, where the “dropped” dog will be met by and
returned to the musher’s handler.
Important:
Slaven’s Roadhouse, 40 Mile, Scroggie Creek, Stepping Stone, and McCabe Creek are Dog Drops and/or
Hospitality stops for mushers and officials only – they cannot accommodate visitors.
10Services and Driving Information
for Alaska Checkpoints
Info about Checkpoint and Community Services is approximate and based on best current information.
Fairbanks Population: 32,324
Start Line – Chena River & Cushman St. Bridge
This is where the excitement starts for visitors, volunteers, and
mushers! Book your hotel early to make sure you won’t miss
this incredible day. The 1,000 mile race starts at 11am, but
mushers and officials will begin preparing at 8am. This is a great
opportunity to see mushers harness the dogs and finish their
last-minute preparations. The YQ 300 will start at 3pm on the
same day and at the same location.
Start Line Services
The start line is located on the Chena River near the Cushman
Street Bridge right in front of The Yukon Quest Race
Headquarters. Please visit the Race Headquarters, office, and gift shop at 550 First Avenue.
Community Services
Enjoy downtown Fairbanks and its full range of services - food and gas are available. There are plenty of options for
accommodations, but book early before they sell out. More information about accommodations, travel arrangements,
and amenities can be found in the “Alaska - Hotel and Transportation Information” document.
Two Rivers Population: 719
Driving
From Fairbanks: Take the Steese Highway North for approximately five miles. Turn
right (east) onto Chena Hot Springs Road. The road is relatively flat with the
exception of the first few miles. Watch out for ice and moose, especially after dark.
Traffic will be relatively heavy going towards the checkpoint. The checkpoint is at
53 mile CHSR.
Checkpoint Services
Food available at this checkpoint is for mushers ONLY.
Community Services
Pleasant Valley Store (23 mile CHSR) will be staying open around the clock during
11the checkpoint service to accommodate the Yukon Quest and handlers for gas, auto supplies, groceries and limited hot
food items. Two Rivers Lodge Dining Room at Mile 16 is also open from 5pm to 10pm. No accommodations are available
for visitors or volunteers.
Mile 101 Population: 0
Teams have a mandatory 4-hour layover at either Mile 101 or Central (musher’s choice). Formerly a Dog Drop, Mile 101
has been a checkpoint since 2010 and consists of a few buildings standing alongside the highway. Unfortunately, this
means that besides the few experienced volunteers assigned to this checkpoint, there is limited room and no
accommodations for additional volunteers and visitors. Mile 101 is a great place to see teams as they travel between the
two summits.
Driving
Important: Before you begin your drive up the Steese Highway, it
is advised that you call the Alaska Department of Transportation
at 1-866-282-7577 to make sure that the road is not closed. It is
very important to get supplies in Fairbanks before you drive up
the highway. There are NO services after the Chatanika Lodge (16
Mile Steese Highway), and you may not see another vehicle on
the road for several miles. Make sure you have enough supplies
and warm weather gear to survive for several hours if you should
break down. Watch out for blowing snow, overflow ice, and
minimal shoulders. Should you run off the road, a recovery
vehicle would have to travel from Fairbanks to assist you. Be extremely careful at 12 Mile Summit and Eagle Summit.
From Two Rivers: Head West on Chena Hot Springs Road, then turn right (North) at the Steese Highway junction. When
driving to Mile 101, be very aware of the traffic on the road, as snowplows may be out and about. Watch for possible
overflow and white-outs.
Checkpoint Services
None for visitors and volunteers. Food available at this checkpoint is for mushers ONLY.
Community Services
No food or gas available. No accommodations available for visitors or volunteers.
Central Population: 134
This is the second of two possible locations where teams may choose to
serve their first mandatory layover.
Driving
From Mile 101, you will be on the Steese Highway going over Eagle
Summit and then begin the long descent into Central. Don’t do this drive
in the dark. Watch for possible overflow, white-outs and snow plows.
Checkpoint Services
12At Central Corner you will find a bar, restaurant, gas and a small grocery store. Be sure to fill your vehicle up completely
here, as there is no gas in Circle and you may need to idle your vehicle for warmth. Accommodations are available, but
limited. Be sure to book early and try their famous Quest Burger while you’re there.
Circle City Population: 100
For YQ300 mushers, this is a checkpoint and the finish. There is a finish banquet in Central for the YQ300 mushers.
Driving
This is a relatively short drive North on the highway from Central. It is only 33 miles between the two checkpoints but
extreme caution must still be exercised. The highway here is mostly gravel with no shoulders.
Checkpoint Services
The checkpoint is housed within the community Fire Hall. It tends to be cold
and has limited services for visitors. Please remember that the food available
at this checkpoint is for mushers ONLY.
Community Services
Very limited grocery store and tire repair. NO GAS. Limited accommodations
available for visitors or volunteers.
Eagle Population: 86
Teams have a 4-hour mandatory layover here.
Driving
There are no roads to Eagle in the winter. The Eagle Checkpoint is only accessible by
airplane from Fairbanks.
Checkpoint Services
Only basic services are available. Supplies are extremely limited.
Community Services
Fuel is not available. A small grocery store provides volunteers with access to food.
Accommodations are extremely limited, and are usually restricted to only on-site
personnel and mushers.
13Services and Driving Information
for Yukon Checkpoints
Info about Checkpoint and Community Services is approximate and based on best information we have to date.
Dawson City Population: 1,319
This “Klondike Capital” checkpoint is considered the
halfway point of the Yukon Quest and teams have a
mandatory 36-hour layover here. The Dawson City
mandatory layover is also “Yukon Quest Time”, when
the entire city goes dog crazy!
DRIVING
Drive time to Dawson City is approximately 6-7 hours
from downtown Whitehorse via the Klondike Highway,
but can take much longer in bad weather. As with
travel on the Steese Highway in Alaska, be very
cautious and prepared for extreme winter weather.
Checkpoint Services
Purchase food and concessions during extended hours.
Please help us support the local community through this concession fundraiser initiative. No free accommodations
available. All volunteers and visitors need to book their own accommodations in the local hotels.
Events/Activities
Dog Park Campground - visitors can walk to the Dog Park Campground across the river to see where the dog teams are
camped for their mandatory layover. Visitors are welcome in the campground, but are prohibited from entering individual
campsites or disturbing any of the dog teams. Their uninterrupted rest is essential during this time. Vehicles are not
allowed in the dog park.
Volunteers at the Dawson City checkpoint are invited to join us at our Volunteer and Community Appreciation Party at
the Downtown Hotel. More details will be available once on-site and at the Whitehorse office.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
There are many restaurants in town, and they are easily accessible on foot. Be sure to book your accommodations as
soon as possible – hotels fill up fast. Other available amenities include: gas stations, souvenir shops, a drug store, the
Canada Post, etc. Enjoy the hospitality and energy of Dawson City, Capital of the Klondike. Check out the Klondike Visitors
Association for more information: www.dawsoncity.ca
Pelly Crossing Population: 336
14Driving
Drive time is approximately 3 hours from Dawson and 3-4 hours from
downtown Whitehorse via the Klondike Highway. The Pelly Crossing
Checkpoint is located within the Community Hall at the Northeast
corner of town. Turn left at the gas station and follow the road
towards the river.
CHECKPOINT SERVICES
Purchase food and concessions during limited hours. Please help us
support our local communities through this concession fundraiser
initiative. Volunteers are welcome to pull out a sleeping bag on the
floor in the Community Hall.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Food and fuel are available at the Selkirk Gas Station. Accommodations are extremely limited!
Carmacks Population: 503
DRIVING
Located at mile 110 on the Klondike Highway, Carmacks is approximately a 2 hour drive from
downtown Whitehorse or 4-5 hours from Dawson. The checkpoint is located at the Carmacks
Community Centre located on River Drive (from the Highway turn North onto Freegold Road,
right onto River Drive and you should see the Recreation Centre just up ahead).
CHECKPOINT SERVICES
Purchase food concessions during checkpoint hours within the community centre. Please
help us support the local community through the checkpoint concession fundraiser,
organized by the volunteers. All proceeds go towards the Carmacks After-School Program.
Accommodations – Volunteers are welcome to pull out a sleeping bag on the gym floor of
the Recreation Centre.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Food, fuel, and groceries are available at the Tatchun Centre General Store. Accommodations are extremely limited at
the Carmacks Hotel, so book early. The Carmacks Hotel also has a small restaurant and bar.
Braeburn Population: Unknown
Teams have a mandatory 8 hour layover in Braeburn for their last vet check on the trail. Teams leaving Braeburn have
approximately 100 trail miles/161 km left before reaching the finish line.
DRIVING
Located at mile 55 on the Klondike Highway, drive time from
Whitehorse to the checkpoint at Braeburn Lodge is
approximately one hour.
CHECKPOINT SERVICES
Purchase gas and various food items, including their world-
famous giant cinnamon buns. Open all hours during the race.
No accommodations are available. Please use inside toilettes
15only if you purchased food at the lodge. Outhouses are located on site.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Same as Checkpoint Services (food and gas).
Whitehorse Population: 27, 889
FINISH LINE
Cheer on mushers and their dogs as they cross the Yukon Quest
Finish Line at the end of this incredible 1,000-mile adventure!
Teams are expected around the clock and are always happy to
see supportive fans at the finish line!
FINISH LINE SERVICES
The Yukon Quest Finish Line is located at Shipyards Park (Ogilvie
nd
St and 2 Ave). Merchandise sales will be available at the park
within the Frank Slims building. Whitehorse boasts many cafes
and restaurants for you to dine at while awaiting the next musher! Quest Fest, a weeklong celebration of all things Yukon
th th
Quest, will be held from February 12 to 16 at the Old Fire Hall in downtown Whitehorse (1105 Front Street). A family
friendly event, Quest Fest is free to attend.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Enjoy downtown Whitehorse, capital of the Yukon Territory, and its full range of services. There are plenty of options for
accommodations, but book early before they sell out. More information about accommodations, travel arrangements,
and amenities can be found in the “Yukon - Hotel and Transportation Information” section.
1617
Traveling the Yukon Quest
Travel between Whitehorse and Fairbanks
There are no direct flights, and connections would most likely be either Vancouver or Seattle.
Directions between Whitehorse to Fairbanks
From Whitehorse- Travel north on the Alaska Highway through Haines Junction. At Haines Junction, you will turn right
following signs to Fairbanks, Alaska. Just after Beaver Creek, you will go through American Customs. Starting at Gerstle
River until about 6 miles East of Delta, watch closely for
buffalo (bison) who are not shy about being on the road.
From here continue along the highway until you reach
Fairbanks.
Plan your rests, meals, and fuel ups on this trip! It will take a
long time (approximately 12 hours or more) and there will
not be many good opportunities to stop along the way so
plan ahead! Many gas stations have limited hours – so check
ahead and bring extra fuel for this 590 mile trip.
From Fairbanks- Travel south on the Alaska Highway through
Delta Junction then Tok, cross the Canadian border at Beaver
Creek, and continue on to Haines Junction. In Haines Junction, you keep on the Alaska Highway East to Whitehorse. (See
precautions noted above.)
United States / Canada Border Crossing
A passport will be required for all travelers crossing the American/Canadian border. If you do not have a passport,
please apply as early as possible. For more info about Customs requirements visit the U. S. Customs and Border Protection
at www.customs.gov/ or the Canada Custom Agency at www.cbsa.gc.ca. Take note of what is allowed to be brought
across borders and differences in regulations.
In Alaska
Getting around Fairbanks
Fairbanks has a relatively small downtown core. If your accommodations are downtown, you more than likely will not
need transportation to get to other downtown venues such as the Start Line, Race Headquarters, Yukon Quest events and
more. However, should you need them; taxis and a local transit system are available.
Need a place to stay?
18La Quinta Inns & Suites - Official Yukon Quest Alaska Hotel Sponsor is offering our fans and volunteers a
special rate! Mention you are in town for the Yukon Quest and get a special reduced nightly rate.
Getting to and from checkpoints in Alaska
Trucks and cars are pretty much the best and only option if you choose to travel between checkpoints in Alaska. The roads
are long, difficult in the winter, and the darkness poses additional complications. Furthermore, there are very few places
to get gas along the road, and almost no accommodations available to tourists or volunteers. Be prepared to sleep in your
car!
Driving your own vehicle/rental in Alaska
If you are bringing your own vehicle or renting a car, access to the checkpoints is relatively simple, however distances can
be long and road conditions can be difficult. Please be cautious on the roads. Please note: vehicle rental agencies are only
available in Fairbanks. If you rent a vehicle and are planning to drive to Central or Circle, you must tell the rental agent
where you are driving. We recommend: National Car and Truck Rental P: 907-451-7368 Toll Free: 1-800-CAR-RENT
In the Yukon
Getting to Whitehorse
From Canadian Locations
Book your flight to the Yukon with Air North, Yukon’s Airline - Official
QuestFest & Yukon Airline Sponsor. Air North has direct flights to
Whitehorse from Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. All volunteers and fans can
use the following discount code to get 10% off their flights to Whitehorse! (Some
restrictions apply.)
Discount Code: TBA
From Anywhere in the World
Use Klondike Travel, “The Yukon Quest’s One Stop Travel Shop – Klondike Travel”. Klondike Travel offers special rates and
discount codes for airfares and/or accommodations and waives booking fees if connecting and booking Air North flights.
Contact klondike@fcatravel.ca or call toll free 877-668-5655
Getting around Whitehorse
Whitehorse has a relatively small downtown core. If your accommodations are downtown, you may not need
transportation to get to other downtown venues such as the Finish Line, Quest Fest, Yukon Quest events, and more. Taxis
and a local transit system are also available.
Getting to and from checkpoints in the Yukon
By air
There are no commercial flights to Braeburn, Carmacks, or Pelly Crossing. However, there are flights between Dawson
City and Whitehorse with Air North: 1-800-661-0407
Air North Promo Code for Yukon Quest discount: QUEST2018
19By public transportation
The following outfits may be able to assist you in traveling between checkpoints during the 2018 Yukon Quest:
Black Bear Wilderness Adventures: (867) 633 3993 or 867-335-0461, www.tourtheyukon.com
Nature Tours of Yukon: (867)660-5050, www. naturetoursyukon.com
Northern Tales: (867) 667-6054 www.northerntales.ca
Driving your own car/rental vehicle
If you are bringing your own vehicle or renting a car, access to the checkpoints is relatively simple, however distances can
be long and road conditions can be difficult. Please use caution on the roads. Please note: vehicle rental agencies are
only available in Whitehorse. Please make sure the vehicle is equipped for severe winter conditions: winter tires, ice
scraper, and extension cord. Also make sure to inform the rental agency where you plan on driving so they can alert you
to vehicle limitations. We recommend Budget: (867) 667-6200, www.budgetyukon.com
Need a place to stay?
Northern Vision Development (NVD) Hotels – Yukon Official Hotel is a longtime Yukon Quest
sponsor. Please see below for a list of their comfortable accommodations:
Whitehorse:
All NVD hotels below include airport shuttle and free internet access to all Yukon Quest volunteers and fans.
Coast High Country Inn
www.highcountryinn.yk.ca
Toll-Free Reservations: 1-800-554-4471 (Canada & U.S.)
4051-4th Avenue
Email: reservations@yukonhotels.com
Best Western Gold Rush Inn
http://www.goldrushinn.com
Toll-Free Reservations: 1-800-661-0539 (Canada & U.S.)
411 Main Street
Email: frontdesk@goldrushinn.ca
Edgewater
http://www.edgewaterhotelwhitehorse.com
Toll-free Reservations: 1-877-484-3334 (Canada & U.S.)
101 Main Street
Email: info@edgewateryukon.com
Dawson City:
Downtown Hotel
http://www.downtownhotel.ca/
Phone: (867) 993-5346
Email: info@downtownhotel.ca
20Packing List/What To Bring
Fairbanks and Whitehorse have many services including large stores (see below), as well as lots of options for food,
groceries, house wares, pharmacy items and clothing.
Clothing
Be prepared for extremely cold and windy conditions. This is essential for your safety and enjoyment of the Yukon Quest -
watching dog team arrivals, outdoor volunteer shifts (if any), general travel, and other outdoor activities you might
choose to participate in. Even if you are coming from a cold climate, please be aware that your ski jacket and winter
boots from home may not be sufficient for standing outside in temperature of -20° C/ -30° F and colder.
The best way to pack and/or purchase is to have many layers of clothing with breathable fabrics (wool where possible).
Pay close attention to your hands and feet – bring warm socks (possibly layers) as well as warm gloves/mittens with an
outer wind-blocking layer and lots of hand warmer packets.
Rentals / Purchase of Gear
It is possible to rent parkas and good winter boots for 1 or 2 weeks in Whitehorse only. It can be expensive, but
worthwhile, saving you from having to purchase new gear (the good quality ones can be very expensive – as much as
$600 for parkas and $200 for boots). It also saves you from packing them as they can be bulky, and you are sure to get
the right type of boots/parka for the right conditions.
Whitehorse- Arctic Range – Book early! Best is two months in advance.
Phone: (1) 867-667-2209
E-mail: info@arcticrange.com
Offering a variety of winter rental packages of varying rates
Fairbanks- There are local outfitters that can fix you right up with Alaskan gear for sale to fend off the cold Interior
winter weather. We recommend our official specialty outdoor gear sponsor: Apocalypse Designs - 201 Minnie Street
Phone: 1-887-521-7555 or local (907) 451-7555
Website: www.akgear.com
List of items to consider bringing with you
Warm sleeping bag and sleeping mattress to -20°C/ -30°F
Warm comfortable pants and long sleeve shirts (lots of layers, breathable fabrics, polar fleece or micro fleece or
wool) both under and outer layers
Warm mittens/gloves, toque/hat, scarf and lots of warm socks
21 Insulated windproof pants (ski pants)
A few packages of chemical feet and hand warmers
Boots and parka (if not being rented or borrowed)
Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm)
Any special food or medications you may require
Water bottle and thermos so you can always have liquids handy
Phone card, memory card and spare batteries
Moisturizers and hand sanitizer
A headlamp and lithium batteries
Don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase for Yukon Quest souvenirs!
Merchandise can be purchased in both our Whitehorse and Fairbanks
gift shops.
Other Considerations
Water
Interior Alaska and the Yukon have a dry, cold climate in winter. You will want to watch your level of hydration, and
ensure that you drink a lot of liquids, particularly water. Watch your quantities of alcohol and caffeine, because it can
affect you even more than usual in this cold and dry climate.
Weather
Be prepared! The temperatures in the Yukon and Alaska in February have
reached some extremes:
According to the Government of Canada weather office, the average
o o
temperature in Whitehorse in February is -14 C/7 F with an extreme
o o o o
maximum of 12 C/ 53 F, and an extreme minimum of -51 C/-60 F.
Average wind speed is 13.5 km/h or 8.38 m/h.
It is not unusual for Fairbanks and the surrounding area to see temperatures
o o o o o
as low as -60 F/-51 C with normal temperatures of -20 F to -30 F/-28 C to -
o
34 C.
Travel Resources
YUKON ALASKA
Yukon Visitors Guide www.touryukon.com Fairbanks Visitor’s Bureau www.explorefairbanks.com
Whitehorse Visitors Guide www.city.whitehorse.yk.ca
Klondike Visitors Association www.dawsoncity.ca
22Ways of Supporting the Yukon Quest
From coming to our events, buying merchandise, becoming a member, sponsoring or directly volunteering for us, there
are many ways you can help the Yukon Quest remain the renowned international sporting event that brought you North!
1,000 Mile Club Membership
“Own” a mile of the historic Yukon Quest trail! A Yukon 1,000 Mile club Membership can be purchased for $100 and
includes many attractive add-ons, such as a 2018 custom-embroidered jacket. All 1,000 Mile Club Members receive a
1,000 Mile Club pin, membership patch, and a vote at the Annual General Membership Meeting. You can also purchase
an Individual, family, or business membership. Please visit http://yukonquest.com/support-yq/become-member for more
details.
Start & Draw Banquet Tickets & Silent Auction in Fairbanks
st
The Start & Draw Banquet takes place on Thursday, February 1 , 2018 in Fairbanks, and it is the ultimate race event for
2018! Guests are in store for a full-course meal with live entertainment, and an evening full of Yukon Quest lore and
excitement. Meet the mushers as they draw their starting order number. The banquet starts at 5pm at the Yukon
Convention Centre. Tickets are $70 USD and will be available in January 2018. Don’t wait too long, tickets sell quickly!
23Finish & Awards Banquet Tickets & Silent Auction in Whitehorse
th
The Finish & Awards Banquet in Whitehorse will be held on Saturday, February 17 , 2018. You won’t want to miss it as
you are in store for a full-course meal with even more entertainment, Yukon Quest lore and excitement. Celebrate our
2018 mushers as they are given their awards and share stories from the trail. The banquet starts at 5pm at The Yukon
Convention Center. Tickets are $85 CAD and will be available in January 2018.
Yukon Quest Merchandise
th
Buy your 2018 merchandise at both of our Yukon Quest offices and QuestFest venues, including the 35 anniversary 2018
poster, pin, patch and Race Program (available around race time). Other merchandise includes DVDs, artwork, t-shirts,
ball caps, and much more.
Also, check out the two Official Yukon Quest Gift Shops at 550 First Avenue in Fairbanks and 1109 Front Street in
Whitehorse, or shop online at our website: www.yukonquest.com/shop.
24Volunteering with the Yukon Quest
The spirit of the Yukon Quest is true to its northern soul. The trail runs across frozen rivers, climbs four mountain ranges,
and passes through isolated northern communities. With temperatures often dropping to 40 below, 50 mph winds, open
water and jumble ice all working against the teams; the Yukon Quest is a true test of the capacity of both man and animal.
The Yukon Quest serves as a tribute to the strength of the ancient bond that unites them.
The Yukon Quest is a volunteer effort from beginning to end. This epic 1,000 mile international sled dog race would have
never been possible without the volunteer efforts of thousands of dedicated individuals, all of whom have lent a hand ...
and sometimes much more - over the last 34 years.
We have a very diverse volunteer community that varies from retired travelers in their 70s to local youth giving some of
their time through school. We have people from all over the globe, spending from 2 days to 3 months in the area, helping
with the race. Some are first timers, some have been coming back for the past 34 years. There are vets, doctors, artists,
construction workers, teachers, engineers, and stay at home moms… You name it! This is one of the best things about the
Yukon Quest - we attract people from all backgrounds, and everyone shares this amazing experience.
You can volunteer anywhere from a few hours, to weeks or more, whatever suits your travels. There is a great diversity of
tasks and duties all through the race that we are sure we can find something for everyone who shows up and offers their
time. Whether it’s in the office answering requests, building a chute, cooking in the kitchen or checking in race teams,
there’s a job for everyone!
Volunteers traveling long distances to help us usually stay in the area (Whitehorse or Fairbanks) and volunteer for one or
two shifts a day, for as many days as they want. Some go on to volunteer at checkpoints, depending on their
interests/skills, and we then ask for a longer commitment. Volunteers working at checkpoints also have to be ready to
work overnight on shifts lasting between 8-12 hours. This is much more demanding physically but an oh-so-exciting job!
Volunteer Benefits
The Yukon Quest is an event with over 1,000 volunteers. We recognize how crucial our volunteers are to the success of
the race. What we offer is the experience of a lifetime and a chance to get connected with this great race.
Benefits
2018 Volunteer Patch
Invitations to Volunteer Appreciation Parties & other YQ events
Snacks or meals at checkpoints - when possible
Due to limited capacity, the Yukon Quest cannot provide transportation for volunteers traveling to checkpoints
or traveling between Whitehorse and Fairbanks. However, for the volunteers signing up for extended stay shifts
at Pelly Crossing and Carmacks checkpoints in the Yukon, we will make every effort to assist you in finding
transportation.
Please note that the Yukon Quest cannot offer free accommodation, transportation or meal. However, we will make
attempts to reduce volunteer out-of-pocket expenses where possible.
25Notes on Volunteer Recruitment and Procedures
Checkpoints: There are some volunteers who are able to assist at each checkpoint. Numbers are determined by the
location and infrastructure of each checkpoint. Checkpoints on the Yukon side are more easily accessible and require
a large number of volunteers when the race starts in Whitehorse. Whereas checkpoints on the Alaska side can be
more remote. If you are interested in volunteering on the trail at a particular checkpoint, please let us know. We ask
that you understand that not everyone can go based on specific needs at each checkpoint.
Code of Conduct: The Yukon Quest has a very strict expectation and code of conduct for its volunteers, staff, mushers
and dog handlers. This is the essence of the whole race, and we demand that everyone involved in the Yukon Quest
be courteous, polite, and helpful towards mushers, officials, veterinarians and fellow volunteers. This also applies to
each volunteer working with the Yukon Quest. Please remember everyone is doing their best, working long hours (in
the extreme cold and dead of night), and that we have to be patient and understanding of other people’s situations.
Engagement with dog teams: No volunteers or visitors are allowed near the dog team camps, nor are they allowed to
pet and touch the dogs. The same restrictions also apply to handlers, who are there to help their designated musher,
and not the dogs. Only mushers and veterinarians are allowed near the dogs. These dogs are athletes,
and therefore they need their rest at each checkpoint. The only time volunteers are permitted near the dogs during
the race is to assist with parking dogs at checkpoints and at the start and finish lines.
Working with Dogs: Some positions are restricted to those with experience handling or working with sled dogs (for
their own safety and yours). Examples include Vet Checks and dog handlers at the start line. Please outline your
experience working with dogs in detail.
Expenses: Volunteers have to remember they will need to personally cover all their expenses during their
participation with the race. If we can provide transportation, or a meal, this will be unexpected and at the last
minute. Until you are here and working with us, please arrange your own accommodation and plan your budget to
include all your food, accommodation and transportation. Some checkpoints will have floor space available for
sleeping, flexibility and adaptability are essential.
Meals: The Yukon Quest does not provide food for volunteers because of the large number of volunteers we
welcome. We may, in some circumstances, have meals available. However, volunteers should not expect it or count
on it in their expenses calculation.
Media: In every case where you are approached by the media, please direct them back to Yukon Quest Officials on
site. If not possible, we ask that you tell them you are not in a position to comment on the race.
Report to your manager to get your assigned duties: The logistics managers, checkpoint managers or members of
YQ staff are the people to talk to on site when you are wondering what you should be doing, what shifts need to be
covered, where should you go and when. These crucial team members will be introduced to you on-site upon your
arrival.
Volunteer Registration: You will find a Registration Form at http://yukonquest.com/support-yq/volunteer-yukon-
quest/volunteer-signup. If you intend on coming up, please fill out this form and submit it on the website. If you plan
on volunteering in both countries, please specify this on the form and we will make sure both offices get the
information. You can also feel free to call or email the offices directly if you have any questions.
WHAT WE DON’T DO: Handling for mushers is not something that we can assist you with. These positions are
established well before the race during the summer and fall months. Mushers do not generally bring in new handlers
at race time.
26Examples of Volunteer Positions
If there is something specific you are interested in or a special skill that you would like to share with us, please let us
know!
Food Drop/Straw ~ (Physical/Outdoors) Receive, account for, verify, organize, lift up to 50 lbs in the cold
Silent Auction ~ (Office/Physical/Over the Phone) Reception/Pick up of prizes, identification, print sheets, store,
transport, display, manage web entries, etc.
Banquets ~ (Various) We will definitely need a hand in setting up both banquets. This can include setting up the
card holders on the tables, merchandise tables, silent auction section, coat checks at the event, tickets sales at the
door, and sales during the event (memberships, raffle tickets, merchandise, etc.). If you would rather attend than
work, make sure to get your tickets well in advance as both events sell out quickly!
Meet the Mushers ~ (Various) Set up, help during the event, bartending, clean up
QuestFest in Whitehorse~ (Various) Welcome visitors, answer inquiries, sell merchandise, banquet and
raffle tickets, serve food and drinks, run activities, set up, clean up, etc.
Start and Finish Chute Setup ~ (Physical/Outdoors) Work in the snow, setting up banners, crowd control
barriers, safety, dog handlers, etc.
Start Line ~ (Physical/Outdoors) The Start Line Manager will need a large number of volunteers to assist in
making the start of the race go smoothly. Tasks could include: crowd control, timer, dog handler, runner, etc.
Security ~ (Outdoors) Control the crowds and the public around the start and finish lines
Checkpoint Volunteers ~ (Various/Outdoors) Checkpoint managers need help around the clock with a wide
variety of tasks, a few examples include: setting up the checkpoint, checking in/out teams, organizing food
drop/straw for mushers, providing wake-up calls to the mushers, road crossings, cooking food, making coffee,
cleaning up, etc.
Finish Line Checkers ~ (Outdoors) Day/night outdoor shifts to check in teams
Chute Take-Down ~ (Physical/Outdoors) Clean-up of both start and finish line chutes and any materials left on
site
“It takes a thousand people
to go a thousand miles.”
27Volunteering in Fairbanks during Start Week
You need to book your own accommodations in hotels, B&Bs, and hostels in town (see our tourism websites
mentioned above in the Tourist Information section on pages 17-19 and don’t forget about the Yukon Quest
discount at Northern Vision Hotels in Whitehorse and La Quinta Inns & Suites in Fairbanks).
Hours will generally be during the day getting ready for the big start or running QuestFest. Some evenings might
be required for last minute details and the running of events (Meet the Mushers, Start Banquet, etc.).
Be ready to do physical work (preparing the chute and start line, managing the public, etc) and/or office work
(counting tickets, selling merchandise, welcoming visitors, running activities etc.)
You may want to rent a car or book a cab.
Volunteering at Checkpoints during the Race
The Yukon Quest does not to provide transportation for volunteers between checkpoints and you are required to
make your own way up the trail.
*Please note: There may be exceptions for checkpoints in Braeburn, Carmacks and Pelly Crossing. Please
contact the Yukon office to make arrangements if you want to volunteer in those two communities.
Carpooling with other volunteers is highly encouraged.
Accommodations are “rugged” (You will often sleep on a floor surrounded by other people and their snores
and/or feet.)
Must be prepared to work a minimum of 8-12 hours shift, often at night.
Be willing to do anything- serving food, moving straw, checking in/out mushers, organizing/moving food drop
bags, cleaning up the dog yard, etc. (Capacity to lift 40lbs is preferable).
A “go with the flow” approach and ability to adapt are best suited for these positions.
Important - If you wish to support us in a checkpoint, a member of our staff will contact you and ask a few more
questions to make sure this suits our needs and your expectations. Your contact info will be passed along to our
checkpoint managers who will then organize volunteer shifts.
Volunteering in Whitehorse during Finish Week
Same as in Fairbanks with the following difference -
Must be ready to work late night shifts when mushers are expected to cross the finish line in the middle of the
night… don’t forget they’ve been in the cold and darkness for days now, so a warm greeting back to civilization is
always welcome!
28Volunteer Testimonials
Here are a few testimonials from past volunteers, some of whom keep coming back to give their time and energy year
after year!
“I shall always be very grateful to the exceptionally friendly Yukon Quest organizers for offering their volunteers so many
diverse opportunities to support this event and experience truly amazing dogs racing through a breathtakingly beautiful
wilderness.” - Frithjof Praetsch, Hannover, Germany
”Volunteering for the Quest has given me unbelievable, once in a lifetime experiences that could only possibly be
surpassed by actually running in the Quest. By becoming a volunteer you are welcomed with open arms into the Quest
family.” - Fintan Morrissey, Kilkenny, Ireland
“The beauty of Yukon/Alaska, the wonderful people you work with in supporting this fantastic adventure, the
communities that you interact with, the mushers and their dogs, this is human beings at their best working in one of the
last great wildernesses. To stand and watch the northern lights, to glimpse the wildlife, to experience the flora and
fauna… this is living!! Hope this helps! Regards to all, have a great race! Hugs, G.” - Gordon Thompson, an Englishman
presently living in the Italian Dolomites.
“Out of this entire experience – I want to relay to new people who want to come and volunteer at this event…you will not
be sorry. This will be one of the most incredible life-changing experiences of your life. I not only fell in love with the
landscape and beauty of the Yukon, but I also experienced the kindness, the sheer generosity and love of the people.”-
Cara Bissonnette, White Rock, BC, Canada
Come and celebrate
35 Years
with us!
ALASKA YUKON
550 First Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701 #2 – 1109 Front Street Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4
Phone: 907.452.7954 Fax: 907.452.7959 Phone: 867.668.4711
Email: alaskaoperations@yukonquest.com Email: yukonoperations@yukonquest.com 29You can also read
