Volunteers

An Open Letter to Our Volunteers

February 8, 2026

While the 2026 Yukon Quest Alaska is happening right now, we wanted to take a moment to speak to the people who actually make this race move. We know that right now, mushers and their dogs are out there pushing through the miles. They are the ones in the spotlight, but they aren't out there alone.

As a Board, we see the work happening behind the scenes. We don't want to wait until the finish line in Fairbanks to say thank you. The effort you are putting in at this very moment is what keeps this race on the map.

To our Trail Crew

You guys are the first ones out and the last ones in. We know you spent weeks scouting and marking the route long before the first team took off. Your hard work and your ability to fix just about anything in the middle of nowhere are the only reasons we have a trail at all. Thank you for keeping the markers up and the path open.

To our Comms Team

When you are hundreds of miles into the wilderness, staying in touch is everything. To the radio operators and dispatchers working those long, quiet shifts: thank you for being the eyes and ears of the Quest. You are the ones tracking every team and making sure everyone stays safe. Because of your focus, help is only a radio call away. You take a massive wilderness and make it a safe place to race.

To our Checkpoint Crews

The checkpoints are where the real spirit of this race shows up. To everyone hauling straw, heating up water, and greeting tired mushers in the middle of the night: your help is incredible. You provide the place where teams can rest and where the vets can do their work. You handle the rush of teams coming and going with a smile and we can't appreciate you enough!

To Our Amazing Volunteers

Whether you are moving drop bags, checking gear, or just keeping the coffee on and the woodstove hot, what you do matters. The Yukon Quest Alaska is more than just a dog race. It is about Alaskans coming together to pull off something difficult and beautiful.

To those of you on shift right now and those trying to catch a few hours of sleep before you head back out: Thank you. We are proud to have you with us.

Good luck to all the teams still on the trail.

The Yukon Quest Alaska Board of Directors