The 1,000 mile (1600km) Yukon Quest, know round the world as “the toughest race on earth”, is a unique cross border sled dog race which takes place in February between Whitehorse, Yukon and Fairbanks, Alaska. In even years this iconic dogsledding event begins in Fairbanks while in uneven years, the Quest begins in Whitehorse.
There is no other race like the Yukon Quest as it is not a staged race but is a true distance dogsledding race. Mushers cannot replace sleds during the race and cannot have stoves and equipment flown into any of the checkpoints. With distances between checkpoints sometimes over 200 miles, musher teams must carry many of their supplies with them on their sled. Often, only about two-thirds of the dog sled teams entering the race will reach the finish line.
The Yukon Quest race highlights the special relationships that exist between mushers and their sled dog teams. Through race rules and regulations and the Vet Program excellence in dog care is emphasized before, during and after the Quest.
The race represents a rare opportunity to see northern working dogs in their element surrounded by the unique winter landscapes and vistas of Canada’s Yukon.
Find us on