2018 Information Package for Visitors & Volunteers - Yukon Quest
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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. 10
Services 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 11
the 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 12
At 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. 13
Services 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 14
Driving 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 15
only 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. 16
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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? 18
La 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 19
By 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 20
Packing 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 22
Ways 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! 23
Finish & 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. 24
Volunteering 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. 25
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 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. 26
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/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.” 27
Volunteering 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! 28
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. “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 29
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