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2014 Information Package
for Volunteers
&Visitors
2
Contents
2014 RACE CALENDAR ...................................................................................................... 5
RACE SCHEDULE APPROXIMATION ................................................................................................................................................. 6
EVENTS AROUND THE 2014 YUKON QUEST .................................................................... 7
IN FAIRBANKS, ALASKA ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
IN DAWSON, YUKON .................................................................................................................................................................... 7
IN WHITEHORSE, YUKON .............................................................................................................................................................. 8
WHAT HAPPENS AT CHECKPOINTS? ............................................................................... 9
ALASKAN CHECKPOINTS: SERVICES AND DRIVING INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 10
YUKON CHECKPOINTS: SERVICES AND DRIVING INFORMATION .......................................................................................................... 13
TRAVELING THE YUKON QUEST .................................................................................... 17
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS IN ALASKA ............................................................................................................................................. 17
TRAVEL BETWEEN FAIRBANKS AND WHITEHORSE .......................................................................................................................... 17
TRAVELING OR RETURNING TO THE U.S. ....................................................................................................................................... 18
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS IN THE YUKON ..................................................................................................................................... 179
PACKING LIST AND EQUIPMENT INFORMATION ......................................................... 21
CLOTHING .................................................................................................................................................................................. 21
RENTALS / PURCHASE OF GEAR ..................................................................................................................................................... 21
LIST OF ITEMS TO CONSIDER BRINGING WITH YOU ............................................................................................................................ 21
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS .............................................................................................................................................................22
TRAVEL RESOURCES ....................................................................................................................................................................22
3
OTHER WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT THE YUKON QUEST .............................................. 23
1000 MILE CLUB MEMBERSHIP .................................................................................................................................................... 23
START & DRAW BANQUET TICKETS & SILENT AUCTION IN WHITEHORSE .......................................................................................... 24
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 PROGRAM PROCEDURES .............................................................................................. 26
EXAMPLES OF VOLUNTEER POSITIONS .................................................................................................................................. 26
VOLUNTEERING IN WHITEHORSE DURING START WEEK ................................................................................................................... 27
VOLUNTEERING AT CHECKPOINTS DURING THE RACE ..................................................................................................................... 28
VOLUNTEERING IN FAIRBANKS DURING FINISH WEEK ..................................................................................................................... 28
VOLUNTEER TESTIMONIALS ......................................................................................................................................................... 29
Welcome to the 31st annual running of the
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Yukon Quest 1,000 mile International Dog Sled Race!
This will be a special year at the Yukon Quest, and once again we will welcome many visitors and volunteers
for this historic race!
We are very excited and looking forward to seeing you in Fairbanks, Alaska for the Official Start on Saturday
February 1st, or for the Finish Week in Whitehorse, Yukon between February 10th and 15th, 2014.
This package provides an overview of the Yukon Quest, as well as volunteer information for the 2014 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 carefully reading this document, please contact the Yukon
Quest offices.
Yukon Office Fabian Schmitz #2-1109 Front Street Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 5G4 Phone: 867. 668.4711 Fax: 867.668.6674 Email: [email protected]
Alaska Office Linda Maack Green 550 First Avenue Fairbanks, AK 99701 Phone: 907.452.7954 Fax: 907.452.7959 Email: [email protected]
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2014 Race Calendar ~ February Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
27 28 29 30 31 1
START WEEK IN FAIRBANKS
Meet the Mushers
Alpine Lodge
6:30pm
Start Banquet
Westmark
Hotel
5pm / $65 US
START DAY!
YQ1,000 11am
YQ300 3pm
2
3 4 5 6 7 8
APPROX. DAWSON CITY LAY-OVER
YQ 300 Finish
Banquet
Central Checkpoint
Dawson City Volunteer
Party
Downtown Hotel
6:00pm
9
Free Mushing
Rides
&
Dignitaries’ Race
Shipyards Park
10am – 3pm
10 11 12 13 14 15
FINISH WEEK IN WHITEHORSE
QUESTFEST at the OLD FIRE HALL
Finish & Awards Banquet
Yukon Convention
Centre
5pm / $75 CND
Meet the
Mushers
Mount McIntyre
6:30pm
16
Whitehorse
Volunteer Party
TBD
17 18 19 20 21 22 POST-RACE CLEAN-UP
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Yukon Quest 1,000 Mile Race
Checkpoints/ Dog Drops & Hospitality
Stops
Approx. Miles from
Previous CP
Range Run time from
Previous CP
Minimum Mandatory
Layover
Date & Time of Arrival
First Musher Arrival Last Musher Departure
Fairbanks - Sat Feb 1 12:30
Two Rivers (Mile 53)
73 8-13 hrs Sat Feb 1 18:00 Sun Feb 2 13:00
Mile 101 41 6-8 hrs ~ 4hrs ~
Sun Feb 2 02:00 Sun Feb 2 20:00 OR
Central 28 3-5 hrs ~ 4hrs ~ Sun Feb 2 10:30 Mon Feb 3 12:30
Circle City 74 10-15
hrs Mon Feb 3 00:00 Tues Feb 4 10:00
Slaven’s Cabin 58 7-15 hrs Mon Feb 3 13:00 Wed Feb 5 07:30
Eagle 101 19-25
hrs ~ 4 hrs ~ Tue Feb 4 13:00 Fri Feb 7 03:30
40 Mile 93 20-27
hrs Wed Feb 5 11:00 Sat Feb 8 11:00
Dawson City 51 8-12 hrs ~ 36 hrs ~ Wed Feb 5 18:00 Mon Feb 10 19:00
Scroggie Creek 99 16-36
hrs Fri Feb 7 18:30 Tues Feb 11 22:00
Stepping Stone 70 9-15 hrs Sat Feb 8 09:30 Thur Feb 13 11:30
Pelly Crossing 32 4.5-5 hrs Sat Feb 8 14:00 Fri Feb 14 01:30
McCabe Creek 34 3.5-5 hrs Sat Feb 8 22:30 Fri Feb 14 14:00
Carmacks 39 5-6 hrs Sun Feb 9 05:00 Sat Feb 15 02:00
Braeburn 77 10-18
hrs ~ 8 hrs ~ Sun Feb 9 18:00 Sun Feb 16 03:30
Whitehorse 100 11-18
hrs Mon Feb 10 13:00 -
*** Starting time differentials (3 min between teams) are adjusted either in Mile 101 or Central depending on the musher’s choice.
Yukon Quest 300 Mile Race
Checkpoints/ Dog Drops
Approx mls from
last ckpts
Range Run time from
last CP
Minimum Mandatory
Layover
Date & time of arrival
1st Musher arrival
last musher depart
Fairbanks - - Sat Feb 1 17:20
Two Rivers (Mile 53)
73 8-13 hrs
Sat Feb 1 22:00 Sun Feb 2 10:00
Mile 101 41 6-8 hrs ~ 2 hours
~ Sun Feb 2 08:30 Mon Feb 3 8:00
Central 28 3-5 hrs Sun Feb 2 15:30 Mon Feb 3 20:00
Circle City 74 10-15
hrs ~ 6 hours
~ Mon Feb 3 5:30 Tues Feb 4 13:30
Central 74 10-15
hrs FINISH Mon Feb 3 19:30 Wed Feb 5 08:30 *
***Starting time differentials (3 minutes between teams are adjusted in Circle)
* Last musher arriving at the Finish
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Events around the 2014 Yukon Quest
In Fairbanks
2013 Fairbanks Events
Saturday November
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Yukon Quest Auction
Beer/Wine Tasting
Pioneer Park Civic Center Join us for a beer and wine tasting provided by Gavora’s Fine Wine as well as silent, outcry and dessert auctions. There’ll be live music, hors d’oeuvres served by Yukon Quest Mushers in tuxedos and other exciting things to celebrate our 31
st race.
2014 Start Week Events - Fairbanks
Wednesday January 29
Meet the
Mushers
Alpine Lodge Come and meet our 2014 mushers! This is your chance to get an
autograph from our racers, witness the YQ 300 bib draw and get a
picture with your favorite musher!
6:30pm
Thursday January 30
Start & Draw
Banquet
Westmark Hotel Get in the spirit of the Yukon Quest as the 2014 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 USD $65)
5-10pm
Saturday February 1
Yukon Quest
RACE START
On the Chena River in downtown Fairbanks ~ 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)
YQ 300
RACE START
On the Chena River in downtown Fairbanks ~ 3pm
1-3pm ~ Teams will be preparing
3pm ~ First team leaves the start chute (one team every 3 minutes)
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In Dawson City
February Feb 5 ~ 10
Dawson City
Layover
Dawson City goes dog crazy! Witness as the mushers finish the
first half of the race and check into their mandatory 36 hour
layover to rest.
Thursday February 6
Volunteer & Community
Appreciation Party
Downtown Hotel – Sourdough Saloon
Food, drinks and entertainment to thank all our volunteers!
6:00-9:00pm
In Whitehorse
Don’t miss our 2014 QuestFest, sponsored by Air North, Yukon’s Airline at the Old Fire Hall on Front Street, right
next to our headquarters! Come and visit our Yukon Quest gift shop, kids’ corner, movies, live coverage of the race, food and warm drinks for our volunteers.
2013 Whitehorse Events
Friday December 6
Christmas Party Gold Pan Saloon @ The Gold Rush Inn Enjoy our Yukon Quest Christmas Party with Silent Auction and music.
5:30pm
2014 Finish Week Events
Friday February 14
Meet the
Mushers
Mt McIntyre – Grey Mountain Room Enjoy a relaxed evening with Yukon Quest mushers, volunteers and supporters.
6:30pm
Saturday February 15
Finish & Awards
Banquet
Yukon Convention Centre @ Coast High Country Inn 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 $75 CND)
5:00 – 10:30pm
Yukon Office Fabian Schmitz #2-1109 Front Street Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 5G4 Phone: 867. 668.4711 Fax: 867.668.6674 Email: [email protected]
Alaska Office Linda Maack Green 550 First Avenue Fairbanks, AK 99701 Phone: 907.452.7954 Fax: 907.452.7959 Email: [email protected]
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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 Alaska, the race begins in Fairbanks at the start line and then goes through five checkpoints: Two Rivers, Mile 101, Central, Circle City, and Eagle. In the Yukon we have four checkpoints: Dawson City, Pelly Crossing, Carmacks and Braeburn. The race then culminates in Whitehorse 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. Teams will be evaluated by a YQ veterinarian at each mandatory stop. Dogs unable to continue the race may be left in the care of the YQ 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.
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. 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.
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Alaskan Checkpoints Services and driving information
Notes: 1- Times/dates indicated for teams passing through are based on estimated times for the first team to arrive and last team to depart each venue. 2- 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 50 with the exception of Dawson City that has around 1,500 habitants in winter.
Fairbanks Starting Line Population: 31,639
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 1,000 mile race starts at 11am, but mushers and officials will begin preparing at 8am for the Race Start… This is a great opportunity to see mushers harness the dogs and finish their last minute preparations. The 2014 YQ 300 Race Start will take place at 3pm on the same day and at the same location.
Checkpoint Services The Official Yukon Quest Starting 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 Purchase of food and gas easily available. Stock up on groceries!
Plenty of accommodations, but book early before they sell out!
Two Rivers Population: 621
Teams are expected to pass through this checkpoint Saturday Feb 1st
through Sunday Feb 2nd
.
Driving Chena Hot Springs Road Chena Hot Springs Road is relatively flat with the exception of the first several 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.
Checkpoint Services Please remember that the food available at the 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. There is also Mia's Cafe at Mile 22 that serves American and Japanese food, which is open 11am till 9pm daily. Two River's Lodge at Mile 16 also open in the afternoon on Saturday and Sunday. No accommodations are available for visitors or volunteers.
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Mile 101 Population: 0
Teams are expected to pass through on Sunday February 2nd
. 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
When driving to Mile 101, be very aware of the traffic on the road, as snowplows may be out and about.
Checkpoint Services None for visitors and volunteers
Community Services No food and no gas available. No accommodations available for visitors or volunteers.
Central Population: 95
Teams are expected to pass through from Sunday February 2nd
to Monday February 3rd
.
Driving to Central From Fairbanks: Along the Steese Highway, you will be 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.
From Circle City: Head back down the Steese Highway toward Fairbanks. You will have seen Central on your way to Circle
City, so you will be familiar with the checkpoint.
Checkpoint Services Please remember that the food available at checkpoints is for mushers ONLY.
Community 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.
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Circle City Population: 100
Teams are expected to pass through Circle City between Monday February 3
rd and Tuesday
February 4th
.
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 1-866-
282-7577 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 Please remember that the food available at checkpoints is for mushers ONLY.
Community Services Very limited grocery store, tire repair, and gas. No accommodations available for visitors or volunteers.
Eagle Population: 110
Teams are expected to pass through Eagle from Tuesday February 4th
to Friday February 7th
.
Driving
There are NO ROADS to the Eagle checkpoint. 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.
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Yukon Checkpoints Services and driving information
Dawson City Population: 1,947
Teams have a mandatory 36 hours layover, and are likely to arrive in Dawson City between Wednesday, February 5th
and leave again -at the latest- on Monday, February 10
th. Wednesday and Thursday 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 36-hour stay, the entire City of Dawson goes dog crazy for four or five days!
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 pass through Whitehorse (see later section on Travelling the Yukon Quest).
Checkpoint Services Purchase food and concessions during extended hours, 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. Thursday, February 6
th: Volunteers at the Dawson City checkpoint are invited to join us at our Volunteer and Community
Appreciation Party at the Downtown Hotel between 6:00-9pm. 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… Enjoy the hospitality and energy of Dawson City, Capital of the Klondike. Check out the Dawson City Visitors Association for more information: www.dawsoncity.ca
14
Pelly Crossing Population: 332 Teams may pass through between Saturday, February 8
th and Friday February 14
th.
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. 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. Accommodations are extremely limited!
Carmacks Population: 521
Teams may pass through between Sunday, February 9th
and Saturday, February 15th
.
Driving
Drive time is approximately two hours from downtown Whitehorse. Continue along the Klondike Highway north past Braeburn.
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. Accommodations are extremely limited – book early!
Braeburn Population: 376
Yukon Quest teams may pass through between Saturday, February 9
th and Sunday the 16
th. Teams have a mandatory 4
hour layover in Braeburn or Carmacks for their first vet check on the trail.
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.
15
Checkpoint Services At Braeburn Lodge, you can purchase gas and various food items, including their world-famous giant cinnamon buns. Open all hours. 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).
Whitehorse Population: 27, 322 Finish Line The first teams to reach Fairbanks will begin to arrive on Monday February 10
th. 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 to continue arriving until Sunday February 16
th.
Checkpoint Services The official Yukon Quest Finish Line is downtown right behind the Whitepass & Yukon Route Building on the corner Front Street and Main Street on the bank of the Yukon River. Our office is situated in this building right beside the finish line.
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.
This year the Questfest will be hosted in the Old Fire Hall from Monday, February 10th to Friday February 14th. At Questfest, you’ll find public washrooms, food and drink concessions, as well as merchandise sales and film screenings. Please see the Questfest schedule, available in January 2014, for details. The Old Fire Hall is located right next to the finish line in downtown Whitehorse, so you are always close to local businesses where you can find food, drinks, souvenirs, bookstores, a drugstore, etc. The Finish Line will also be easily accessible from all downtown hotels.
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Distances between Yukon Quest Trail Locations
MILES
White
horse
Braeburn
Carm
acks
McC
abe Cre
ek
Pelly C
ross
ing
Steppin
g Stone
Scroggie
Creek
Dawso
n City
Forty
Mile
Eagle
Slaven's
Roadhouse
Circle C
ity
Central
Mile
101
Two Rive
rs
Fairb
anks
Fairbanks 991 891 814 775 741 709 639 540 492 393 292 234 160 127 45
Two Rivers 946 846 769 730 696 664 594 495 365 348 247 189 115 82 72
Mile 101 864 764 687 648 614 582 512 413 365 266 165 107 33 132 204
Central 831 731 654 615 581 549 479 380 332 233 132 74 53 185 257
Circle City 757 657 580 541 507 475 405 306 258 159 58 119 172 304 376
Slaven's Roadhouse 699 599 522 483 449 417 347 248 200 101 93 212 265 397 469
Eagle 598 498 421 382 348 316 246 147 99 163 256 375 428 560 632
Forty Mile 499 399 322 283 249 217 147 48 159 322 415 534 587 719 791
Dawson City 451 351 274 235 201 169 99 77 236 399 492 611 664 796 868
Scroggie Creek 352 252 175 136 102 70 159 236 395 558 651 770 823 955 1027
Stepping Stone 282 182 105 66 32 113 272 349 508 671 764 883 936 1068 1140
Pelly Crossing 250 150 73 34 51 164 323 400 559 722 815 934 987 1119 1191
McCabe Creek 216 116 39 55 106 219 378 455 614 777 870 989 1042 1174 1246
Carmacks 177 77 63 118 169 282 441 518 677 840 933 1052 1105 1237 1309
Braeburn 100 124 187 242 293 406 565 642 801 964 1057 1176 1229 1361 1433
Whitehorse 161 285 348 403 454 567 726 803 962 1125 1218 1337 1390 1522 1594
Distances between locations may vary from year to year, depending on trail and river conditions.
KILOMETERS
Checkpoint Dog Drop Hospitality StopTypes of Trail Locations:
17
Traveling the Yukon Quest
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, Checkpoint, 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 (incl. tax) 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
18
Travel between Fairbanks and Whitehorse There are no direct flights, and connections would most likely be either Vancouver or Seattle.
Directions from Fairbanks to Whitehorse 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. From Whitehorse, travel North on the Alaska Highway through Haines Junction, cross the US border at Beaver Creek, and continue on to Fairbanks, Alaska.
Traveling or Returning to the U.S. A passport will be required for all travelers entering or returning to the U.S. If you do not have a passport yet, please apply as early as possible. Please consider this if you’re planning to travel to the Yukon and back home, as well as those planning side trips to Alaska. For more info about Customs requirements visit the U. S. Customs and Border Protection at http://www.customs.gov/ or the Canada Custom Agency at http://www.cbsa.gc.ca
19
In the Yukon
Getting to Whitehorse
Book your flight to the Yukon with:
Air North - Official QuestFest & Yukon Airline Sponsor! Air North, Yukon’s airline, 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!
Discount Code: QUEST2014 or call 1-800-661-0407 to speak with a booking agent
(Restrictions Apply)
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, 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 2014 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 Adventures Ltd. at (867) 633 3993 or 867-335-
0461 and check their website www.tourtheyukon.com.
By driving your own rental vehicle/car 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.
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Need a place to stay?
Northern Vision Hotels – Yukon Official Hotel & Finish Banquet Sponsor
Dawson City
Downtown Hotel - $85 CND http://www.downtownhotel.ca/ Phone: (867) 993-5346 Fax: 1-867-993-5076 Email: [email protected]
Whitehorse:
All Northern Vision hotels below include airport shuttle and free internet access to all Yukon Quest volunteers and fans.
Coast High Country Inn - $98 CDN www.highcountryinn.yk.ca Phone: (867) 667-4471 Toll-Free Reservations: 1-800-554-4471 (Canada & U.S.) 4051-4th Avenue Email: [email protected]
Best Western Gold Rush Inn - $112 CDN http://www.goldrushinn.com
Phone: (867) 668-4500
Toll-Free Reservations: 1-800-661-0539 (Canada & U.S.)
Fax: 867-668-7432
411 Main Street
Email: [email protected]
Edgewater - $98 CDN http://www.edgewaterhotelwhitehorse.com
Phone: 867-667-2572
Toll-free Reservations: 1-877-484-3334 (Canada & U.S.)
Fax: 867-668-3014
101 Main Street
Email: [email protected]
21
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 Phone: 1-887-521-7555 or local (907) 451-7555 Email: www.akgear.com 201 Minnie Street
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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
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)
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
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 temperature in Whitehorse in February is -14oC/7
o F
with an extreme maximum of 12oC/ 53
o F, and an extreme minimum of -51
oC/-60
o 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 as low as -60oF/-51
oC with normal
temperatures of -20oF to -30
oF/-28
oC to -34
oC.
Travel Resources
YUKON Yukon Visitors Guide www.touryukon.com
Whitehorse Visitors Guide www.city.whitehorse.yk.ca
Dawson City Visitors Association www.dawsoncity.ca
ALASKA 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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Other Ways You Can Support 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 2014 custom-embroidered soft shell jacket or parka in the Yukon side or
a parka on the Alaska side, 1,000 Mile club pin, patch and more. You can also purchase an Individual membership; family
membership; or a business membership.
See our website www.yukonquest.com for more details.
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Start & Draw Banquet Tickets & Silent Auction in Fairbanks The Start & Draw Banquet takes place on Thursday January 30
st in Fairbanks, and it is the ultimate race event for 2014!
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 Westmark Hotel. Tickets
are $65 USD and will be available in November 2013. Don’t wait too long, tickets sell quickly!
Finish & Awards Banquet Tickets & Silent Auction in Whitehorse The Finish & Awards Banquet in Whitehorse will be held on Saturday, February 15
th. 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 2014
mushers as they are given their awards and share stories from the trail. The Banquet starts at 5pm at the Yukon
Convention Centre. Tickets are $75 CND and will be available in November 2013.
Yukon Quest Merchandise Buy your 2014 merchandise at both of our Yukon Quest offices and QuestFest venues, including the 31
st anniversary 2014
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.shopyukonquest.com.
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.
*To participate, more information can be found on pages 24-27 of this document.
Information also available on our website
2014 race info and rules (Yukon Quest and YQ300)
List of 2014 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 2012 – We had over 800 volunteers last year, 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 that is “The Toughest Dog Sled Race in the World!”
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 Volunteer Patch 2014 ٭
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 the 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. We will make attempts to reduce volunteer out-of-pocket expenses where possible.
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NOTES ON VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT AND PROGRAM PROCEDURES
Checkpoints: There are a limited number of volunteers able to stay and help at each checkpoint. Numbers are determined by the location and infrastructure of the checkpoint. 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 due to limited space and our specific needs at checkpoints.
Code of Conduct: The Yukon Quest has a very strict expectation of a good code of conduct from its 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 extreme cold and dead of night), and that we therefore 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.
Expenses: Volunteers have to remember they will need to personally cover all their expenses during their participation with the race. If we can provide a lift, 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 and transportation.
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 some meals available, but 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 and a Volunteer Driver’s Information Form at the end of this package. If you intend on coming up to Alaska or the Yukon, please fill these forms 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.
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.
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.
27
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) Reception/Pick up of prizes, identification, print sheets, store, transport, display,
manage web entries, etc.
Banquets ~ 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 ~ Set up, help during the event, bartending, clean up
QuestFest ~ Welcome visitors, answer inquiries, sell merchandise, banquet and raffle tickets, serve food and drinks,
set up, clean up, etc.
Start and Finish Chute setup ~ (Physical) Work the snow, setting up banners, crowd control barriers, safety,
dog handlers, etc.
Security ~ Control the crowds and the public around the start and finish lines
Finish line checkers ~ Day / night outdoors 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 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 page 21 and don’t forget about the Yukon Quest discount at the Alpine Lodge).
Hours will generally be during the day getting ready for the big start. 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, etc.)
You may want to rent a car or book a cab.
VOLUNTEERING AT CHECKPOINTS DURING THE RACE
Minimum 3 day commitment
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 make exceptions for the checkpoints in Carmacks and Pelly Crossing. Please contact the Yukon office to make arrangements if you want to volunteer in those two communities.
Accommodations are “rugged” (You will often sleep on a floor surrounded by other people and their snores!)
Must be prepared to work a minimum of 8-12 hours shift, often at night.
Be willing to do anything: serving food, moving straw, cleaning up the dog yard, etc (Capacity to lift 40lbs).
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
VOLUNTEERING IN WHITEHORSE DURING FINISH WEEK
Same as in Fairbanks 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
31 Years with us!
YUKON #2 – 1109 Front Ave. Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4
Phone: 867.668.4711 Fax: 867.668.6674 Email: [email protected]
ALASKA 550 First Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701
Phone: 907.452.7954 Fax: 907.452.7959 Email: [email protected]
