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These Yukon-based sporting events are as unique as the destination
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Get your game face on
While the Yukon is commonly misperceived as an isolated place, it is in fact a hub of community-spirit fostered in part through sport. These events act as more than just competitions; many are the cornerstones of an inclusive, vibrant and active community. And the jaw-dropping wilderness backdrop doesn’t hurt either! Whether you’re interested in lacing up and jumping in yourself, or want to be a cheerleader for some lively Yukon moments, the local sports scene will have something for everyone.
Raven 50 Mile Ultra
Grueling, challenging, and oh-so beautiful, the Raven 50 Ultra & Relay takes runners on a literal journey on Yukon First Nation territory each July. With stunning alpine views and rugged terrain, this race includes three mountain ridges, two summits and over 2500 meters of elevation gain. The race offers solo, two-person relay and youth 10km relay options.
Over the last two years the organization that runs the event, Run For Life, has put an enormous emphasis on reconciliation and incorporation of First Nations’ culture. Some of which includes: incorporating First Nations’ storytelling and place names into the route, complimentary race entries for Indigenous participants, and proceeds of the registration fees going to the Kwanlin Koyotes to encourage more youth to walk, hike, ski and run on Yukon trails.
Embarking on the 715km journey down the Yukon River, the Yukon River Quest annual paddling marathon is a test of endurance, teamwork and wilderness aptitude. Powerful currents, unpredictable weather and wild landscapes among long days of paddling push physical and mental limits. Are you ready to race from Whitehorse to the Klondike?
The event is open to solo and tandem canoes and kayaks, voyageur canoes and solo stand-up paddle boards each July. The river traverses traditional territories of five Yukon First Nations: Kwanlin Dün, Ta’an Kwachan Council, Little Salmon Carmacks, Selkirk, and Tr’ondek Hwech’in. As paddlers make their way through the heart of the Yukon, they earn the pride of competing in an exceptionally challenging race while also gaining a profound respect for the river.
Community: Whitehorse, Carmacks and Dawson City, Yukon Event type: Solo or team registrations Season: Summer
Race alongside the historic route of the Klondike Gold Rush each September. Beginning in Skagway, AK, through the north-western tip of British Columbia, the Klondike Road Relay weaves back into Southern Yukon, passing through Carcross and ending in Whitehorse. The distance spans 175km, over 1000m of elevation gain, and is a test of endurance, spirit and teamwork. And the best part? The party lasts all night long. Leg one runners begin the climb out of Skagway in the evening, which means legs two to six usually happen through nightfall.
Within this event, you can enlist a team of 10 runners from Skagway, eight runners from Carcross, and four or eight people walking teams from Carcross. Or, if you’re feeling like getting as many kilometres under your belt as you can, tackle the run from Carcross to Whitehorse on your own. Either way, there will be a big party waiting for you at Rotary Park equipped with snacks, swag, a beer garden, and a hefty dose of runner’s high.
Community: Skagway, Alaska to Whitehorse, Yukon Event type: Solo or team registrations Season: Early fall
The Kilrich Yukon Native Hockey Tournament is a beloved annual event in late-March in Whitehorse, bringing together hockey teams from across the Yukon, British Columbia, and the Northwest Territories. This high-energy tournament showcases the incredible talent and passion for hockey within Indigenous communities. Beyond the exciting games, the event also fosters a strong sense of community, with cultural traditions, drumming and dancing adding to the atmosphere.
With an average of 56 teams competing across various divisions, the tournament offers intense competition and exciting matches. The Tournament is more than just a sporting event; it's a celebration of Indigenous culture, sportsmanship, and the enduring spirit of hockey in the North.
Community: Whitehorse, Yukon Event type: Team registrations, for Indigenous participants only Season: Early spring
The Yukon Quest is an exhilarating sled dog race, showcasing the endurance and skill of mushers and their canine teams. With multiple race distances offered, from 100 to 450 miles, the event caters to a wide range of skill levels. The race is a prime example of the art of mushing and also demonstrates the Yukon's unique landscapes and communities between Teslin and Faro in, at times, harsh February conditions. The race offers an opportunity for connection with local First Nation cultures while fostering a continued sense of pride in the Yukon's rich winter history and heritage.
With multiple race distances now offered, the Yukon Quest has become more accessible to a wider range of mushers and spectators. The shorter races allow for increased participation and a chance for emerging talent to shine, while the longer distances continue to challenge the most experienced competitors. As the Yukon Quest evolves, it remains a testament to the enduring spirit of winter adventure and the impressive human-canine bonds.
Community: Teslin, Ross River and Faro, Yukon Event type: Individual (plus dog team) registration only Season: Winter
