Yukon River Trail Marathon - Race Reviews

This was my 19th marathon, but my first trail run. I've never had a challenge like this. An amazing, extremely difficult wilderness course, run by an amazing crew of volunteers. Warning: this is not for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights. Congratulations to all involved in putting this together.

I rated “Fans” a “3” simply because there were none along the race route because of the remote location of most of the course. The aid station volunteers provided encouraging “fan” support. The scenery is so breathtaking that I appreciated the solitude and tranquility. This was my first trail race and only my second marathon. The course ran along lengths of the Yukon River and small lakes south of Whitehorse. The trail was extremely well marked and very challenging. Many ascents and descents really tested my leg strength and stamina. Friendly and encouraging volunteers manned the strategically located aid stations. I really enjoyed the banquet following the race at a local hotel. Finishers received an attractive ceramic medal that captured the essence of the Yukon. There were many interesting things to see and do in Whitehorse. If you love the great outdoors, there are countless trails around Whitehorse. If you’ve ever felt drawn to Canada’s North and like to run trails, this is THE destination race for you.

I did the 1/2 marathon (Legs 1 and 4 of the marathon course). The course follows cross country ski trails along the Yukon River, Miles Canyon and winds around several lakes to end up back in Whitehorse. Terrain varies from gravel to grass to rocks to suspension bridge to single path trail. Last 3K is on a flat paved bike path. Gorgeous scenery, but concentrating on the terrain doesn't leave time to sight-see while running. It's definitely worthwhile reviewing at least the last leg of the course beforehand. Practice uphill AND downhill running! Check out the photos at the race website. Trails are very well marked, lots of volunteers and sufficient aid stations. Diverse crowd; enthusiastic race MC/announcer; very nice banquet dinner for volunteers and competitors; medals are made at a local pottery studio. I thoroughly recommend participating in this event. This race, along with the Dawson City Dome Run and the Mayo Midnight Marathon, made an excellent vacation. While in Whitehorse, do a day hike/bike up Grey Mountain for blueberries and a great view of Lake Labarge, and paddle the Yukon River. If you have more time, I recommend visiting the Tombstone Mountains (along the Dempster Highway en route to Inuvik and the Arctic Ocean), or taking the ferry south to Haines, Alaska for glaciers, waterfalls, and lots of eagles.

This was my first marathon, so I can't compare it to others. The people were great, the course was beautiful, the trails rough, the hills insane and the views when you could look at them, spectacular. The bear briefing at the start only added to the appeal or this event. (No spectators on course.)