How is the race fee determined?
We take steps to keep race fees as low as possible so that price is not an obstacle for most people who want to participate. We use a cost-recovery model - the fee is based on actual costs and covers the expenses associated with hosting a race which is safe and fun. The fee covers expenses such as runner food at race end, flagging and signage, safety personnel on course, advertising and promotion, park rental, etc. Other organizations (e.g., Athletics Yukon, Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay, and Sports Yukon) lend us pylons, tents, timing devices and other equipment which also helps keep our costs down. And, finally the race organization has no paid staff - the YRTM is a strictly volunteer-run event, relying on over 80 volunteers to plan and host the event.
For 2022, the race fee is $60.
If travel to the Yukon is restricted, or the race is cancelled because of new restrictions imposed by Yukon’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, registered participants can apply their registration fee (and the cost of the race shirt if ordered) to the 2023 race.
How does this timing stick system work?
Each racer will need to carry a small timing stick (attached to a lanyard) and 'dip' it in a small timing device when they finish their event. This is the same system now used by both the Klondike International Road Relay and the Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay.
Time is recorded when the stick is dipped, so be sure to go straight to the dipping station! There are volunteers at the finish line to assist.
If you have picked up your bib package but cannot run on race day, please make every effort to return the timing stick to Rotary Park on race day. The sticks are expensive to replace!
Where and when can I pickup my Race Bib?
See Schedule here.
Please note that any race packages that are not picked up by the end of bib pickup are forfeited.
How is the trail marked and what will I encounter on the way?
The course will be marked as follows:
- Florescent orange pin flags will be inserted in the ground to mark the course and show direction at all key intersections. Flagging tape (usually orange) will mark the course between pin flags.
- Sandwich boards are used to mark entry or exit at intersections on paved portions of the trail.
- Permanent trail signs are installed on the course (licence plate size with Yukon River Trail Marathon logo).
- Large orange Pylons will be used at Start/Finish Area and at Miles Canyon bridge.
In addition to beautiful scenery and challenging terrain, you will encounter aid stations with water, sports drink, and lots of friendly volunteers at checkpoints located at the end of each leg as well as the start/finish line in Rotary Park. There are also water stations at intermediary points between checkpoints.
Port-a-potties are available at the race start/finish, at the end of leg 2 (Chadburn Lake), and at the Schwatka Lake Boat Launch (Leg 4). There are also Port-a-potties off course near the Miles Canyon exchange point - check with race volunteers at this station for directions. Please note that we cannot adjust your time for bathroom breaks.
What is the elevation gain?
Total elevation gain is 862 metres. Under the tab entitled Route, there is a pdf of the course which includes an elevation profile of the full marathon.
Who is eligible to enter the Open, Masters, Masters Plus, Masters Plus Plus and Masters P3 categories?
Runners between the ages of 14 and 39 years on race day fall in the Open category. The Masters category is for runners who are between the ages of 40 and 49 years on race day, and the Masters Plus category is for anyone who is 50 to 59 years of age. Masters Plus Plus are 60 years of age to 69 years on race day. Masters P3 are 70 years and older, and still running!
Can teams of two or three people run the relay?
Yes. Relay teams can have 2, 3 or 4 runners. You decide who will run which legs, and indicate your choice when you register on-line.
You will be pleased to know that the runner who runs more than one leg only pays one registration fee!
What food and drink is available post-race?
A bag lunch, including a vegetarian option, is available post-race for all participants, beginning at approximately 11:30.
What are the take-homes from the race?
Runners who complete the marathon and half-marathon races, and half-marathon walkers will receive a hand-made pottery medallion with the Yukon River Trail Marathon logo.
Due to uncertainty about COVID, there will be no awards ceremony, and no awards will be handed out this year.
When will the results be posted?
Results will be posted in Rotary Park shortly after the close of the race at 2:30 on our web site and Facebook page.
How can I familiarize myself with the course?
Evening training runs for legs 2, 3 and 4 may be organized by Athletics Yukon on Thursday nights during the four weeks leading up to the race. Click here to confirm dates and times for the runs.
If you are from out of town and unable to familiarize yourself with the route before race day, please read about the course description under Route, review the map, and/or go over the course with one of the volunteers at bib pick up.
What type of sport drink is available on the course?
Gatorade. It's available at the first water station opposite the float plane dock, Miles Canyon Bridge, Chadburn Lake picnic area, Schwatka Lake and the final Chadburn Lake Road crossing.