Suggested visit
Day 1
Ceremonial start · downtown Whitehorse
Day 2
Braeburn checkpoint · cinnamon-bun stop
Day 3
Aurora viewing · Takhini soak
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Sporting · Winter
Yukon Quest Sled-Dog Race
Whitehorse, Yukon Early February · 10 days
1,000-mile sled-dog race — the toughest in the world — between Whitehorse and Fairbanks.
Type
Sporting
Family Friendly
Yes
Setting
Outdoor
About This Event
The story of Yukon Quest Sled-Dog Race
1,000-mile sled-dog race — the toughest in the world — between Whitehorse and Fairbanks.
Following historic Klondike Gold Rush and mail-delivery routes, the Yukon Quest tests mushers and their teams against sub-40 °C temperatures, frozen rivers, and four summit crossings.
Why travelers love it
Reasons to go
What makes Yukon Quest Sled-Dog Race unforgettable.
01
Ceremonial start on Yukon River
02
Watch teams at checkpoints
03
Aurora nights
04
Musher meet-and-greets
Best areas to stay
Where to stay
Curated accommodations across price tiers and neighbourhoods.
- Edgewater Hotel
- Coast High Country Inn
Explore beyond the event
Things to do nearby
Make Whitehorse the start of a wider Canadian adventure.
- Takhini Hot Springs
- Miles Canyon
- SS Klondike
Make the most of your visit
Suggested itineraries
Plans for every length of stay — from a single day to an extended adventure.
Know before you go
Local insider tips
Editorial advice from on-the-ground travelers.
Weather
Pack for the season and check the forecast the week of.
Transit
Use public transportation where possible — venues fill quickly with festival traffic.
Arrive early
Marquee events draw crowds — give yourself 60 minutes of buffer.
Cash
A small amount of cash speeds up small-vendor and food lines.
Photography
The hour before sunset gives the best festival light.
Photo gallery
A visual taste
A glimpse of Yukon Quest Sled-Dog Race and the surrounding destination.
Editorial photography curated by The Canadian Explorer.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Extend your trip
Parks, campgrounds and road trips within reach of Whitehorse.
National Parks nearby
Road trips nearby
Explore more of Canada
Related destinations
Continue the journey from where the festival ends.
Trip planning assistance
Need help planning your visit?
Tell us about your trip and we'll send a tailored plan with recommendations for hotels, transport, itineraries and surrounding destinations. This is travel planning assistance — not a booking form.
Curated by Canadian travel editors