If you follow the Yukon Arctic Ultra (YAU) and are interested in extreme winter challenges, you likely also hear some news about the Yukon Quest every now and then. The YAU obviously has had a strong connection with the Yukon Quest from the very beginning. That’s one of the reasons why, last winter, we decided to leave the traditional Whitehorse-to-Dawson route together with the Quest. Since then, there have been some changes within the Yukon Quest organization and it has long been unclear to people on the outside what will happen with this legendary mushing race in the upcoming winter. A few days ago, the organizers made a first statement. Basically, the Yukon Quest plans a return to the “old” trail to put on a 100-mile race from Whitehorse to Braeburn. The release on facebook also states:
“ … The Yukon Quest’s goal is to return to the City of Dawson, and that will take time, money, organization, consultations and a lot of effort. As the trails are developed and maintained back to Dawson, (and they may well follow new routes) the Quest Organization will stage races on those trails until we can run safely and securely all the way to Dawson.”
What does all this mean for the YAU 2026?
In short, it won’t change anything. I had to commit to the new route a long time ago. Not knowing what the Quest would do, I worked on the assumption that it may not take place. I am super happy that there will be a Yukon Quest 2026, and the incredible journey of this famous sled dog race will continue.
As planned, the YAU 2026 will start in Teslin, go on the South Canol Road and via the Dena Cho Trail we continue from Ross River to Faro. The 600 km athletes head to the North Canol Road for an out-and-back before they also finish in Faro. The new 235 km distance will start in Brooks Brook in the afternoon (exact time tbc.) on February 1st and finish in Ross River.
Regarding the marathon, we had hoped to get access to a facility that is at the right distance but unfortunately it looks like we won’t be able to use it. So, at this point all I can say is that we likely won’t have a marathon distance again. Should anything change, I will update asap.
What can we expect beyond 2026?
For those of you interested in the YAU 2027 or beyond, it’s too early to confirm anything. There are good reasons to stay on the new trails – way less issues with overflow being one of them – and there are of course good reasons for looking into a return to the old Quest trail. I will spend a lot more time than normal in the Yukon this winter and can hopefully have many interesting conversations to find out what the best solution is from 2027 onwards. Any locals who would like to contribute with input – regarding the existing options, the idea of connecting Faro with Pelly Crossing, any ideas on new trails, please feel free to reach out by email to info@thegreatoutdoors.de.
