Volunteering - Yukon Quest

2015
Information Package
for Visitors &
Volunteers
1
Contents
2015 RACE CALENDAR....................................................................................................... 5
RACE APPROXIMATION SCHEDULES ............................................................................................................................................... 6
EVENTS AROUND THE 2015 YUKON QUEST .................................................................... 7
IN WHITEHORSE, YUKON .............................................................................................................................................................. 7
IN DAWSON, YUKON .................................................................................................................................................................... 7
IN FAIRBANKS, ALASKA ................................................................................................................................................................ 8
WHAT HAPPENS AT CHECKPOINTS? ...............................................................................9
YUKON CHECKPOINTS: SERVICES AND DRIVING INFORMATION .......................................................................................................... 10
ALASKA CHECKPOINTS: SERVICES AND DRIVING INFORMATION ......................................................................................................... 13
DISTANCES BETWEEN YUKON QUEST TRAIL LOCATIONS CHART ........................................................................................................ 17
TRAVELING THE YUKON QUEST .................................................................................... 18
IN ALASKA................................................................................................................................................................................. 18
TRAVEL BETWEEN WHITEHORSE AND FAIRBANKS ......................................................................................................................... 20
IN THE YUKON ......................................................................................................................................................................... 189
PACKING LIST AND EQUIPMENT INFORMATION ......................................................... 21
CLOTHING .................................................................................................................................................................................. 21
RENTALS / PURCHASE OF GEAR..................................................................................................................................................... 21
LIST OF ITEMS TO CONSIDER BRINGING WITH YOU ............................................................................................................................ 21
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................... 212
TRAVEL RESOURCES ....................................................................................................................................................................22
2
WAYS OF SUPPORTING THE YUKON QUEST ................................................................ 23
1000 MILE CLUB MEMBERSHIP ....................................................................................................................................................23
START & DRAW BANQUET TICKETS & SILENT AUCTION IN WHITEHORSE ...........................................................................................23
FINISH & AWARDS BANQUET TICKETS & SILENT AUCTION IN FAIRBANKS ......................................................................................... 24
YUKON QUEST MERCHANDISE ..................................................................................................................................................... 24
VOLUNTEERING.......................................................................................................................................................................... 24
INFORMATION ALSO AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE ....................................................................................................................... 24
VOLUNTEERING WITH THE YUKON QUEST .................................................................. 25
VOLUNTEER BENEFITS .................................................................................................................................................................25
NOTES ON VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT AND PROCEDURES .............................................................................................................. 26
E XAMPLES O F V OLUNTEER P OSITIONS ...................................................................................................................................27
VOLUNTEERING IN WHITEHORSE DURING START WEEK .................................................................................................................. 28
VOLUNTEERING AT CHECKPOINTS DURING THE RACE ..................................................................................................................... 28
VOLUNTEERING IN FAIRBANKS DURING FINISH WEEK ..................................................................................................................... 28
VOLUNTEER TESTIMONIALS ......................................................................................................................................................... 29
3
Welcome to the 32nd Annual Running of the
Yukon Quest 1,000 Mile International Dog Sled Race!
We are very excited and looking forward to seeing you in Whitehorse, Yukon for the Official Start on Saturday
February 7th, or for the Finish Week in Fairbanks, Alaska between February 16th and 21st, 2015.
This package provides an overview of the Yukon Quest, as well as volunteer information for the 2015 Race. In
this package you will find maps, checkpoint descriptions, tips on clothing and weather, travel industry details,
etc. If you still have questions or concerns after reading this document, please contact either Yukon Quest
office.
Yukon Office
Alaska Office
Holly Smith
#2-1109 Front Street
Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4
Linda Maack Green
550 First Avenue
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Phone: 867. 668.4711
Fax: 867.668.6674
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 907.452.7954
Fax: 907.452.7959
Email: [email protected]
4
2015 Race Calendar ~ February
Sunday
Monday
1
Free
Mushing
Rides &
Dignitaries’
Race
Tuesday
2
Wednesday
3
Thursday
Friday
4
Saturday
5
6
7
START WEEK IN WHITEHORSE
QuestFest Sponsored by Air North - Monday-Friday 10:30-5pm at the Old Fire Hall
START WEEK IN WHITEHORSE START DAY!
Meet the
Mushers
Start
Banquet
Shipyards Park
Mount
McIntyre
Weather
Permitting
6:30pm/ Free
Yukon
Convention
Center
Yukon Quest
11am
YQ300
3pm
5pm / $75 CAD
8
9
10
11
Shipyards Park
12
13
14
20
21
APPROX. DAWSON CITY LAY-OVER
15
16
YQ 300
Finish
Banquet
Dawson City
Volunteer
Party
Pelly Crossing
At the Downtown Hotel
17
18
19
FINISH WEEK IN FAIRBANKS
Meet the
Mushers
Alpine Lodge
6:30pm/ Free
22
23
24
25
26
27
Finish &
Awards
Banquet
Westmark
5pm / $65 USD
28
POST-RACE CLEAN-UP
* Whitehorse and Fairbanks Volunteer Party – TBA (Post Race)
5
Race Approximation Schedules
Yukon Quest 1,000 Mile Race
Checkpoints/
Dog Drops
Approx Miles
from Last CP
Whitehorse
Braeburn
100
Carmacks
77
McCabe Creek
Pelly Crossing
Scroggie Creek
Dawson City
Eagle
Slaven's Cabin
Circle City
39
34
105
105
150
100
60
Central
74
Mile 101
28
Minimum
Mandatory
Layover
~ 6hrs ~
OR
~ 6hrs ~
~ 24 hrs ~
~ 6hrs ~
~ 6hrs ~
OR
~ 6hrs ~
OR
~ 6hrs ~
Date & Time of Arrival
1st Musher Arrival
Sat
Feb 7 21:00
Last Musher Depart
Sat
Feb 7 12:15
Sun
Feb 8 17:00
Sun
Feb 8 09:00
Mon
Feb 9 18:30
Feb 8
Feb 9
Feb 9
Feb 10
Feb 12
Feb 13
Feb 14
Mon
Tues
Thurs
Sat
Tues
Tues
Thurs
Feb 10
Feb 10
Feb 12
Feb 14
Feb 17
Feb 17
Feb 19
Sun
Mon
Mon
Tues
Thurs
Fri
Sat
15:00
00:45
22:45
13:00
12:15
21:00
12:30
15:00
20:15
06:00
08:30
01:00
23:30
10:00
Sun
Feb 15 05:00
Fri
Feb 20 08:00
Sun
Feb 15
Fri
Feb 20 20:30
20:30
Two Rivers
41
~ 8 hrs ~
Mon
Feb 16 17:00
Sat
Feb 21 03:30
(Mile 53)
Fairbanks
73
Tues
Feb 17 05:00
Note: Starting time differentials (3 min between teams) are adjusted either in Braeburn or Carmacks
depending on the musher’s choice of mandatory layover location.
*These are estimate arrival and departure times based on previous statistics
Yukon Quest 300 Mile Race
Checkpoints
Approx Miles
from Last CP
Whitehorse
Braeburn
Carmacks
100
77
Pelly Crossing
Pelly Crossing
Finish
Minimum
Mandatory
Layover
Date & Time of Arrival
1st Musher Arrival
Sun
Sun
73
70
~ 2 hours ~
~ 6 hours ~
-
Last Musher Depart
Feb 8 01:45
Feb 8 15:00
Sat
Sun
Tues
Feb 7 16:15
Feb 8 20:00
Feb 10 10:00
Mon
Feb 9 06:00
Wed
Feb 11 03:00
Mon
Feb 9 17:30
-
-
***Starting time differentials (3 minutes between teams are adjusted in Carmacks)
* Last musher arriving at the Finish
6
Events Around the 2015 Yukon Quest
2015 Start Week Events – Whitehorse
Old Fire Hall on Front Street
Monday
February 2nd- 6th
Wednesday
February 4
Thursday
February 5
Saturday
2015 Quest Fest
Sponsored by Air North
Meet the
Mushers
Sponsored by Yukon
Wild
Start & Draw
Banquet
Sponsored by Northern
Vision Development
Yukon Quest
RACE START
Right next to our headquarters! Come and visit our Yukon Quest gift
shop, kids’ corner, movies, pre-coverage of the race, food and warm
drinks for our volunteers.
Daily from 10:30-5pm
Grey Room – Mount McIntyre
Come and meet our 2015 mushers! This is your chance to get an
autograph from our racers and get a picture with your favorite
musher!
6:30pm
Yukon Convention Center – Coast High Country Inn
Get in the spirit of the Yukon Quest as the 2015 Race gets into full
swing with the event that brings together people from around the
world. Dress is a combination of dressy AND casual. Hurry up
because tickets sell fast! (Tickets $75 CAD)
5-10pm
Shipyards Park on the West End of Whitehorse ~ 11am
8-11am ~ Teams get ready before the start
11am ~ First team leaves the start chute
11am ~ 12:30pm ~ Remaining teams leave (one team every
three minutes)
February 7
Shipyards Park on the West End of Whitehorse ~ 3pm
YQ300
RACE START
1-3pm ~ Teams will be preparing
3pm ~ First team leaves the start chute
3pm ~ 4:30pm ~ Remaining teams leave (one team every 3
minutes)
In Dawson City – 24 hour Layover
February
Dawson City
Layover
Thursday
Volunteer &
Community
Appreciation Party
10th ~ 14th
February 12
Dawson City goes dog crazy! Witness as the mushers finish the
first half of the race and check into their mandatory 24 hour
layover to rest.
Downtown Hotel – Sourdough Saloon
Food, drinks and entertainment to thank all our volunteers!
6:00-9:00pm
7
2014 Finish Week Events - Fairbanks
Chena River in front of Yukon Quest Race Headquarters
February
RACE FINISH
Friday
Meet the
Mushers
17th ~ 21st
February 20
Saturday
February 21
Finish & Awards
Banquet
The first teams to reach Fairbanks are expected approximately
th
Tuesday February 17 . Cheer on mushers and their dogs as they cross
the Yukon Quest Finish Line at the end of this incredible 1000-mile
adventure! Teams are expected to continue arriving until Saturday
st
February 21 .
Alpine Lodge – Glacier Room
Enjoy a relaxed evening with Yukon Quest mushers, volunteers and
supporters.
6:30pm
Westmark Hotel – Gold Room
Tickets available through the Whitehorse office.
An evening with full-course meal, entertainment, and mushers
receiving their awards. Take home great items from our Yukon Quest
Store. Tickets sell quickly – get them early! (Tickets $65 USD)
5:00 – 10:30pm
Yukon Office
Alaska Office
Holly Smith
#2-1109 Front Street
Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 5G4
Linda Maack Green
550 First Avenue
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Phone: 867. 668.4711
Fax: 867.668.6674
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 907.452.7954
Fax: 907.452.7959
Email: [email protected]
8
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. (For further detailed information, please
visit our website at www.yukonquest.com).
In the Yukon, the race begins in Whitehorse and goes through four checkpoints: Braeburn, Carmacks, Pelly Crossing, and
Dawson City. In Alaska, the race goes through five checkpoints: Eagle, Circle City, Central, Mile 101, and Two Rivers. The
race then culminates in Fairbanks at the Finish Line.
Mushers must personally check in and out before going on. At each checkpoint, the time into the 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 mandatory stop. 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 services 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 medical care from the veterinarian team,
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 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.
9
Yukon Checkpoints
Services and Driving Information
Note: Dates indicated for teams passing through are based on estimated times for the first team to arrive and last team to
depart each venue.
Info about Checkpoint and Community Services is approximate and based on best information we have to date. For all 9
remote communities (outside the start and finish), population numbers vary between 0 to 600 with the exception of
Dawson City that has around 1,300 habitants in winter.
Whitehorse
Population: 27, 889
Starting Line – Shipyard’s Park
This is where the excitement starts for all our
visitors, volunteers, and mushers! Book your hotels
early to make sure you won’t miss this incredible
day. The 1000 mile race starts at 11am, but
mushers and officials will begin preparing at 8am
for the start. This is a great opportunity to see
mushers harness the dogs and finish their last
minute preparations. The 2015 YQ 300 Race Start
will take place at 3pm on the same day and at the
same location.
Start Line Services
The official Yukon Quest Start Line is downtown at
the end of Front Street, in “Shipyards Park” situated
on Second Avenue across from Tim Horton’s and
A&W. Our offices are situated approximately a ten
minute walk from the start in the White Pass
Building located at Main St. and Front St.
Community Services
Enjoy downtown Whitehorse, capital of the Yukon Territory, and its full range of services. More information about
accommodations, travel arrangements, and amenities can be found on the pages to follow.
10
This year the QuestFest will be in the Old Fire Hall from Monday,
nd
th
February 2 to Friday February 6 . On the start day, Saturday
th
February 7 , the QuestFest will be moved to the Frank Slim’s
building in Shipyards Park, right next to the start line!
At QuestFest, you’ll find public washrooms, food and drink concessions, as well as merchandise sales and film screenings.
Please see the QuestFest schedule online for more details (available in January 2015).
Both the Old Fire Hall and Shipyards Park are located in downtown Whitehorse, so you are always close to local
businesses where you can find food, drinks, souvenirs, bookstores, groceries, fuel, drugstores, etc. The race start is easily
accessible from all downtown hotels.
Braeburn
Population: Unknown
th
th
Yukon Quest teams are expected to pass through Braeburn between Saturday, February 7 and Monday, February 9 .
Teams have a mandatory 6 hour layover in Braeburn or Carmacks for their first vet check on the trail. YQ300 mushers
have a mandatory 2-hour layover.
Driving
Drive time is approximately one hour from downtown
Whitehorse. Drive north onto the Alaska Highway, turn north
onto the Klondike Highway, and continue to Braeburn Lodge,
the official checkpoint, on your left. Located at mile 55 on the
Klondike Highway.
Checkpoint Services
At Braeburn Lodge, you can 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 only if you purchased
food at the lodge. Port-a-potties are available on site.
Community Services
Same as Checkpoint Services (food and gas).
Carmacks
Population: 503
th
Teams are expected to pass through Carmacks between Sunday, February 8 and Tuesday,
th
February 9 . Teams have a mandatory 6 hour layover in Braeburn or Carmacks for their first
vet check on the trail. YQ300 mushers have a mandatory 6-hour layover.
Driving
Drive time is approximately two hours from downtown Whitehorse. Continue along the
Klondike Highway north past Braeburn Lodge. Located at mile 110 on the Klondike Highway.
The checkpoint is located at the Carmacks Community Centre located on River Drive (from
the Highway turn left on Freegold Road, right onto River Drive and you should see the
community center just up ahead).
Checkpoint Services
Purchase of 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 to towards the
11
Carmacks Recreation Facility Programing. Accommodations – Volunteers are welcome to pull out a sleeping bag on the
floor in the Community Hall Gym.
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.
Pelly Crossing
Population: 336
th
th
Teams are expected to pass through Pelly Crossing between Monday, February 9 and Wednesday, February 10 . For
YQ300 mushers, this is a checkpoint and the finish line. There will be a finish banquet at the community hall for the YQ300
mushers.
Driving
Drive time is approximately 3-4 hours from downtown Whitehorse.
From Whitehorse: drive north on the Alaska Hwy, turn north on the
Klondike Hwy, continue north past Braeburn and Carmacks
checkpoints. 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 toward to river. Drive time is
approximately two hours to Dawson City, the next checkpoint.
Checkpoint Services
Purchase food and concessions during limited hours. Please help us
support our local communities through this concession fundraiser
initiative. Accommodations – 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. Accommodations are extremely limited!
Dawson City
Population: 1,319
th
Teams have a mandatory 24-hour layover, and are likely to arrive in Dawson City between Tuesday February 10 and
th
Saturday, February 14 . Tuesday and Wednesday are the best days to see teams arriving.
The Dawson City Mandatory Layover is also “Yukon
Quest Time” in the Klondike capital! With teams
spread out over a day or two, coupled with each
team’s 24-hour stay, the entire City of Dawson goes
dog crazy for four or five days!
Teams are likely to leave Dawson after the mandatory
th
layover from Wednesday the 11 to Sunday February
th
15 .
Driving
Drive time to Dawson City is approximately 5-6 hours
from downtown Whitehorse, but can take much
longer in bad weather. To reach Fairbanks and the
Alaska checkpoints, you must again back track toward
Whitehorse and head west on the Alaska Highway (see later section on Travelling the Yukon Quest).
12
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 cannot enter individual campsites or
disturb any of the dog teams. Their uninterrupted rest is essential during this time. Vehicles are not allowed in the dog
th
park. Thursday February 12 : 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
Alaskan Checkpoints
Services and Driving Information
Note: To access the Alaskan checkpoints, you will need drive from Whitehorse, YT to Fairbanks, AK, and then from
Fairbanks you must drive toward Circle City. Please remember the Eagle Checkpoint is not accessible by the road system,
and your trip will therefore start in Circle City.
Eagle
Population: 86
th
Teams are expected to pass through Eagle from Thursday, February 12 to Tuesday,
th
February 17 . Teams have a 6-hour mandatory layover here.
Driving
There are NO ROADS to village of Eagle in the winter. The Eagle Checkpoint is only
accessible by airplane from Fairbanks, AK.
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.
13
Circle City
Population: 100
th
th
Teams are expected to pass through Circle City between Saturday, February 14 and Thursday, February 19 . Teams have
a mandatory 6-hour layover in Circle City, Central, OR Mile 101 (mushers choice).
Driving
To follow the rest of the race, you must drive the Steese
Highway from Fairbanks all the way to Circle City, and then make
your way back down the Steese Highway as the race progresses.
Before you begin your drive up the Steese Highway, it is advised
that you call the Alaska Department of Transportation at 1-866282-7577 to make sure that the road is not closed! You must be
prepared before you head up the Steese Highway. The road is
mostly gravel, with no shoulders, and plenty of curves. It is very
important to re-supply in Fairbanks before you drive up the
Steese Highway. There are NO services after the Chatanika
Lodge, 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 as you travel the Steese Highway. Should you run off the road, a recovery vehicle would have to travel
from Fairbanks to assist you. Be extremely careful at both 12 Mile Summit and Eagle Summit.
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, tire repair, and gas. Limited accommodations available for visitors or volunteers. Contact the
Fairbanks office for more information.
Central
Population: 134
th
th
Teams are expected to pass through from Sunday February 15 to Friday February 20 . Teams have a mandatory 6-hour
layover in either Circle City, Central, OR Mile 101 (mushers choice).
Driving
From Circle City, head back down the Steese Highway toward
Fairbanks. You will have seen Central on your way to Circle City, so
you should be familiar with the location of the checkpoint. Be
cautious on the switchback roads!
From Fairbanks, 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. Please see the driving directions to Circle City for more
information on the Steese Highway.
14
Checkpoint Services
At Central Corner you will find a bar, restaurant, gas and a small grocery store. Accommodations are available, but limited.
Be sure to book early and try their famous Quest Burger while you’re there. Open all hours during the race.
Community Services
Same as Checkpoint Services (food and gas).
Mile 101
Population: 0
th
th
Teams are expected to pass through between Sunday, February 15 and Friday, Friday 20 . Teams have a mandatory 6hour layover in either Circle City, Central, OR Mile 101 (mushers choice). Formerly a Dog Drop, Mile 101 has been a
Checkpoint since 2010. It is literally only a few buildings standing in the middle of the wilderness. Unfortunately, this
means that besides the few well experienced volunteers assigned to this checkpoint, there is limited room for additional
volunteers and visitors. Mile 101 is a great place to see teams as they travel between the two summits.
Driving
Before you leave Central, check your fuel tank. Central is the last
place you can get fuel before you hit the outskirts of Fairbanks. It
is a long assent up Eagle Summit from Central. When driving to
Mile 101, be very aware of the traffic on the road, as snowplows
may be out and about. Don’t do this drive in the dark. 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 and no gas available. No accommodations available for visitors or volunteers.
Two Rivers
Population: 719
th
st
Teams are expected to pass through this checkpoint Monday February 16 and Saturday 21 . Teams have a mandatory 8hour layover here before the final push to the finish line in Fairbanks.
Driving
From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Road is relatively flat with the exception of the
first few miles. Watch out for ice and moose along this road. The traffic will be
relatively heavy going towards the checkpoint. The checkpoint is at 53 mile.
From Mile 101: Continue south on Steese Highway, take a left at Fox (the 4 way
stop at the scales). Take the Chena Hot Springs Road exit and go to milepost 53.
Checkpoint Services
Food available at this checkpoint is for mushers ONLY.
Community Services
The Pleasant Valley Store will be staying open around the clock during the checkpoint service to accommodate the Yukon
Quest and handlers for gas, auto supplies, groceries and limited hot food items. Two River's Lodge Dining Room at Mile
16 also open from 5pm to 10pm. No accommodations are available for visitors or volunteers.
15
Fairbanks Population: 32,324
Finish Line – Chena River & Cushman Bridge
The first teams to reach Fairbanks will begin to arrive on
th
Tuesday, February 17 . Cheer on mushers and their dogs as
they cross the Yukon Quest Finish Line at the end of this
incredible 1000-mile adventure! Teams are expected to
st
continue arriving until Saturday February 21 .
Finish Line Services
The Official Yukon Quest Finish Line is located on the Chena
River near the Cushman Bridge right in front of The Yukon Quest
Race Headquarters. Please visit the Yukon Quest Race
Headquarters, offices, and gift shop at 550 First Avenue.
Community Services
Enjoy downtown Fairbanks, and its full range of services - purchase of food and gas is easily available. Plenty of
accommodations, but book early before they sell out! More information about accommodations, travel arrangements,
and amenities can be found on the pages to follow.
16
17
Traveling the Yukon Quest
In the Yukon
Getting to Whitehorse
Book your flight to the Yukon with Air North - 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! (Restrictions Apply)
Discount Code: QUEST15 or call 1-800-661-0407 to speak with a booking agent
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 Start Line, Yukon Quest events, and more. However, should
you need it; there are taxis and a local transit system 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
By public transportation
In 2015 Blackbear Wilderness Adventures will offer transportation between some of the checkpoints on the Yukon side of
the race. For prices, schedules and other details please contact Blackbear Wilderness Adventures Ltd. at (867) 633 3993 or
867-335-0461 and check their website www.tourtheyukon.com.
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.
Need a place to stay?
Northern Vision Hotels – Yukon Official Hotel & Finish Banquet Sponsor is offering fans and volunteers
a special rate! Mention you are traveling for the Yukon Quest in order to receive the below rates:
Whitehorse:
All Northern Vision hotels below include airport shuttle and free internet access to all Yukon Quest volunteers and fans.
18
Coast High Country Inn - $98 CAD
www.highcountryinn.yk.ca
Toll-Free Reservations: 1-800-554-4471 (Canada & U.S.)
4051-4th Avenue
Email: [email protected]
Best Western Gold Rush Inn - $112 CAD
http://www.goldrushinn.com
Toll-Free Reservations: 1-800-661-0539 (Canada & U.S.)
411 Main Street
Email: [email protected]
Edgewater - $98 CAD
http://www.edgewaterhotelwhitehorse.com
Toll-free Reservations: 1-877-484-3334 (Canada & U.S.)
101 Main Street
Email: [email protected]
Dawson City:
Downtown Hotel - $85 CAD
http://www.downtownhotel.ca/
Phone: (867) 993-5346
Email: [email protected]
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. It is best to fuel up before leaving Haines Junction – Beaver Creek and Destruction
Bay can be unreliable for gas stations. Between Burwash
Landing and Beaver Creek, the highway is chalk full of serious
frost heaves, pot holes and rough road. Take your time in
here and slow down! Just after Beaver Creek, you will go
through American Customs at Alcan Crossing. 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
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not be many good opportunities 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 Finish 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?
Alpine Lodge - Official Yukon Quest Alaska Hotel Sponsor is
offering our fans and volunteers a special rate!
If you mention you are traveling for the Yukon Quest, the rate is $74 per
night.
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
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Packing List & Equipment Information
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
It is really important to bring appropriate clothing with you. 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: Men’s World – Book early! Best is 2 months in advance.
Phone: 667-2817
E-mail: [email protected]
Package includes: Parka, Sorel boots, toque/hat and mitts.
Fairbanks: Should you feel the need for more warmth and therefore, comfort, 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
Email: www.akgear.com
List of items to consider bringing with you
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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
Insulated windproof pants (ski pants)
A few packages of feet and hand warmers
Boots and parka (if not being rented or borrowed)
Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm)
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Any special food or medications you may require
Water bottle and thermos so you can always have liquids handy
Phone card, extra film and/or memory card, spare batteries and USB key to exchange pictures
Moisturizers and hand sanitizer
A headlamp and lithium batteries
Don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase for Yukon Quest souvenirs!
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
Whitehorse Visitors Guide www.city.whitehorse.yk.ca
Klondike Visitors Association www.dawsoncity.ca
Alaska Travel Industry Association www.travelalaska.com
Fairbanks Visitors Guide www.alaska.com
Fairbanks Visitor’s Bureau www.explore Fairbanks.com
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Ways of Supporting the Yukon Quest
From coming to our events, to buying merchandise, to 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 attracted you
up to the North!
1,000 Mile Club Membership
The Yukon Quest Premier Membership includes a 2015 custom-embroidered 3-in-1 jacket on the Yukon side or a parka on
the Alaska side, 1,000 Mile club pin, membership patch, subscription to our electronic newsletter, and a vote at the
annual general meeting. You can also purchase an Individual, family, or business membership. See our website
www.yukonquest.com for more details. (http://yukonquest.com/support-yq/become-member)
Start & Draw Banquet Tickets & Silent Auction in Whitehorse
The Start & Draw Banquet takes place on Thursday February 5th, 2015 in Whitehorse, and it is the ultimate race event for
2015! 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
th
Convention Centre. Tickets are $75 CAD and will be available November 17 , 2014. Don’t wait too long, tickets sell
quickly!
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Finish & Awards Banquet Tickets & Silent Auction in Fairbanks
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The Finish & Awards Banquet in Fairbanks will be held on Saturday, February 21 , 2015. You won’t want to miss it as you
are in store for a full-course meal with even more entertainment and Yukon Quest lore and excitement. Celebrate our
2015 mushers as they are given their awards and share stories from the trail. The banquet starts at 5pm at The Westmark
Gold Room. Tickets are $65 USD and will be available in January 2015.
Yukon Quest Merchandise
Buy your 2015 merchandise at both of our Yukon Quest offices and QuestFest venues,
st
including the 32 anniversary 2015 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
Coast Mountain Sports in Whitehorse, or shop online at our website:
www.yukonquest.com/shop.
Volunteering
One of the best ways to experience the Yukon Quest is to join our team of volunteers!
The Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race is founded on volunteer hours. Its structure is composed of two separate
staff teams (Fairbanks and Whitehorse) who are both governed by two Boards of Directors. The Boards are composed of
volunteers who every year, month, and week provide support,
advice, feedback and guidance needed to make this race
happen. The organization also has tremendous support from
its members, who not only pay a membership every year, but
also contribute physically by volunteering throughout the year
for various events.
And then there are people like you. The Yukon Quest
welcomes around 800 volunteers every year who walk, drive,
and fly out to Alaska and the Yukon from close by
communities, as well as far distant countries such as England,
Germany, Australia, Japan, and the Netherlands. These
volunteers provide the help the Yukon Quest needs every year
to pull of this event on an international level and run a
successful race year after year.
Information also available on our website
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2015 race info and rules (Yukon Quest and YQ300)
List of 2015 Mushers with their profiles
History of the Yukon Quest and Sled dogs in the North
Online stores
Membership Applications
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Volunteering with the Yukon Quest
The spirit of the Yukon Quest is still true to its northern soul. The trail runs across frozen rivers, climbs four mountain
ranges, and passes through isolated northern villages. With temperatures often dropping to 40 below, 100 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 30 years.
Statistics from 2014 – We had over 800 volunteers in total, who put in more than 25,000 hours of their time to make the
race happen.
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 30 years. There are vets, doctors, artists,
construction workers, teachers, engineers, and stay at home moms… You name it! This is one of the great things about
the Yukon Quest: we attract people from all backgrounds, and everyone shares this great experience.
You can volunteer anywhere from a few hours, to two weeks or more, whatever suits your travels. There is such 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, working on the website, photographing the race, or
building a chute. There is a job for everyone, and we sure need the help!
Volunteers traveling long distances to join the race 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 800 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
 2015 Volunteer Patch
 Invitations to Volunteer Appreciation Parties & other YQ events
 Snacks or meals at checkpoints - when possible
 Attempts to coordinate ride shares, where 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 meals, however; we will make
attempts to reduce volunteer out-of-pocket expenses where possible.
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Notes 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 teams’ 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. The reasoning behind this is
that 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, in order to cut costs 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 any case where you are approached by the media, please direct them back to one of the Yukon Quest staff
members or 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 Form: You will find a Registration Form at the end of this package. If you intend on coming up
to Alaska or the Yukon, please fill this form and send them to the appropriate office. If you plan on volunteering in
both countries, please specify this on the form, and we will make sure both offices get the information.
 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.
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Examples 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) Receive, account for, verify, organize, store
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 Mostly 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) Clean-up of both start and finish line chutes and any materials left on site
“It takes a thousand people
to run a thousand miles”
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Volunteering in Whitehorse 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 page 22 and don’t forget about the Yukon Quest discount
at Northern Vision Hotels).
 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.
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*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 great adaptability are best suited for these positions.
 Important! If you indicate your 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 match both 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 Fairbanks during Finish Week
Same as in Whitehorse with the following differences:
 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!
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Volunteer 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.
“Having volunteered for numerous other races and events around western Canada I can honestly say the Quest is far and
away the best for being organized and looking after their volunteers. I am preparing to head back to Scroggie Creek for a
second year.” - Greg Morton, Alberta, Canada
Come and celebrate
32 Years
with us!
ALASKA
550 First Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701
Phone: 907.452.7954 Fax: 907.452.7959
Email: [email protected]
YUKON
#2 – 1109 Front Street Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4
Phone: 867.668.4711 Fax: 867.668.6674
Email: [email protected]
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