The Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra (MYAU) is often called the toughest ultramarathon in the world, pushing athletes to their absolute limits in one of the most extreme environments on the planet. Since its inception in 2003, the race has been held annually in the Yukon during the heart of winter, following parts of the historic Yukon Quest trail. Competitors must navigate vast, frozen landscapes while battling temperatures that can plummet below -40°C. Participants choose between distances ranging from 100 km to 600 km, traveling by foot, fatbike, or ski, all while carrying their own gear and supplies. The MYAU is not just a test of endurance but of survival—racers face frostbite, exhaustion, and complete isolation, with limited access to indoor shelter or outside assistance. Unlike traditional ultramarathons, where aid stations and support crews are common, MYAU athletes must be self-sufficient, making smart decisions about pace, nutrition, and cold-weather management. Over the years, the course has evolved, introducing new routes and challenges that continue to solidify its reputation as one of the most unforgiving endurance events in the world—where simply finishing is considered a victory.

A New Route, A New Challenge

The 2025 edition of the MYAU was unlike any before it. A shift in location meant that even veteran athletes were stepping into unfamiliar territory. Gone were the traditional distances of 100, 300, and 430 miles; instead, racers faced a grueling 350 km trek to Faro or an even more punishing 600 km route that extended up the remote North Canol Road.

Compounding the challenge, the race began in the late afternoon rather than the morning. This left competitors with only a few hours of daylight before being enveloped into an unforgiving Yukon night. To make matters worse, the first checkpoint was farther than usual, forcing racers into a test of endurance right from the start.

The Race Begins

At 3:25 PM, shortly after the Yukon Quest mushers departed Teslin, the MYAU racers set off under a crisp, and cold  sunny sky. Athletes had gathered at the Teslin Motel and community rec center to make final preparations, eat, and hydrate—knowing that the warmth and comfort would soon be a memory.

As night fell, temperatures plummeted to -40°C. The first stretch the race following the horse of Telson lake to Brooks Brook CP1 quickly turned into a long cold march. Frostbite and exhaustion set in early, forcing some racers to scratch before they even reached the checkpoint. Others made the check point, desperate for warmth, only to be met with the cold truth—no extended indoor rest was available. This year, CP1 and the following three checkpoints would not allow for drying gear or prolonged shelter. Many racers were prepared for this in theory, but experiencing it firsthand was another matter entirely.

While some athletes never made it to Brooks Brook, requiring a snowmobile evacuation en route. Others continued on, but later withdrew at the entrance to the South Canol Road.  This would be the last vehicle accessible location until reaching Ross River.  Any racer scratching beyond this point would require a long snow machine ride out.  

Frostbite & the Harsh Reality

Few races in the world test athletes the way the MYAU does. This race saw extended exposure to -40°C conditions.  Without proper sweat management this almost guarantees cases of frostbite, no matter how experienced a racer might be. Prevention is drilled into the athletes through the mandatory training, but once on the trail, staying warm and dry becomes a relentless battle.

Medical crews worked tirelessly to assess and treat athletes at each checkpoint. Some athletes required immediate evacuation, with helicopters called in when ground transport could have worsened their injuries. The media often portrays these air rescues as dramatic, but in reality, they are simply the best way to ensure an athlete’s safety and recovery. Every competitor is insured for such situations, and while many would prefer to push forward, knowing when to stop can mean the difference between temporary and permanent injury.

For those who endured, the next leg of the journey only became more grueling.

The Journey Continues

The South Canol Road proved to be a relentless beast. Temperatures remained at -35°C or lower, forcing more competitors to withdraw at Quiet Lake and beyond. Some required EMS assistance, while others—suffering from trench foot, old injuries flaring up, or sheer exhaustion—had to accept that finishing wasn’t in the cards this year.

Yet, despite the brutal conditions, some athletes endured. Those continuing on the 600 km course faced an even greater test of endurance. After days of grinding through the South Canol Road, racers arrived in Ross River for their first chance at proper indoor rest, thanks to the Ross River Dena Council’s hospitality. The next stretch—an out-and-back along the legendary North Canol Road—was as remote and unforgiving as it gets.

Those who pressed on were rewarded with one of the most breathtaking backdrops in the Yukon, the North Canol Highway. The Northern Lights made frequent appearances, casting a glow over the frozen expanse. The course—already deemed one of the hardest in MYAU history—had lived up to its reputation.

The final stretch of the race from Ross River to Faro via the Dena Cho Trail added one last unexpected challenge. After days of slogging along snow-covered roads, athletes found themselves navigating a winding, hilly hiking trail. While the terrain was exhausting, the rewards were immense: spectacular views around every corner.

More Than a Race

The Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra 2025 was not just another edition of an already legendary race—it was an entirely new chapter. The new route, the extreme cold, and the relentless physical and mental demands made it one of the toughest MYAUs to date.

For some, it was about survival. For others, it was about pushing their limits. But for every racer who stood at the starting line, the MYAU was a journey into the wild. To come face to face with the elements and with themselves.

And for those who endured, it was proof that even in the heart of the cold Yukon winter, the human spirit can endure.

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NDS_20211012_090021-5-Pano Power on the Edge: Sustaining Yukon’s Closed-Grid Energy Future

Yukon’s energy system is as unique as the territory itself. Unlike most other regions in Canada, Yukon operates on a closed energy grid, meaning it cannot import power from neighboring provinces during high-demand periods. This self-reliance presents both challenges and opportunities, especially as the territory faces growing energy demands from expanding industries and communities.

However, innovative energy projects are reshaping the territory’s future. From enhanced hydroelectric storage and cutting-edge battery technology to renewable energy and cross-border collaborations, these initiatives are critical to ensuring Yukon’s grid is ready for tomorrow’s challenges while preserving its environment.

This photo series explores the backbone of Yukon’s energy system, the ongoing projects that are transforming it, and the vision for powering the future in one of the most remote regions in Canada.

The Backbone of Yukon’s Energy – Hydro Power

Hydropower is the cornerstone of Yukon’s energy system, providing over 90% of the territory’s electricity. Yukon Energy operates three hydroelectric facilities: the Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station, the Aishihik Generating Station, and the Mayo Generating Station. Together, they form the backbone of the grid, delivering power to communities across the territory.

Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station

Situated along the Yukon River, the Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station is the largest of its kind in the territory. Operational since the 1950s, this facility has been instrumental in powering Yukon’s capital and surrounding areas.  While it is the largest hydro facility in the Yukon, it's production capacity in the winter is reduced from 40 megawatts to 25 megawatts due to the reduced flows of water in the Yukon River.

Aishihik Generating Station

Located about 110 kilometers northwest of Whitehorse, the Aishihik Generating Stations been providing renewable electricity since 1975.  It  utilizes water from Aishihik Lake. The Aishihik facility is located 110 meters under ground.  Annually Aishihik produces about 25 percent of the total energy produced by Yukon Energy.  It is notable for being the territory’s only hydro plant capable of operating typically at capacity year-round, thanks to a high-elevation reservoir that stores water for consistent power generation even during winter.

Mayo Generating Station

Serving the northern region of the territory, the Mayo Generating Station started harnesses power from the Mayo River in 1950(Mayo A). In 2011 a new power house project(Mayo B) was completed downstream.  This increased the hydro  capacity for 5 mega watts to 15 mega watts.  This facility plays a vital role in providing electricity to remote communities and supporting mining operations in the area.

Despite their reliability, these hydro stations face seasonal challenges. Winter’s high power demand coincides with low water levels, often requiring newer LNG generators and diesel generators to supplement the power grid demand. 

Photo Highlights:

    •    Aerial views of the Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station, Aishihik reservoir, and Mayo facility.

    •    Transmission lines extending across the wilderness, symbolizing the grid’s reach.

    •    Panoramic drone shots of Southern Lakes with visible water-level markers.

Batteries and Backup – Innovations in Energy Storage

To address fluctuations in power supply and demand, Yukon has invested in its first large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS), located in Whitehorse. This facility acts as a safety net, storing excess energy during periods of low demand and discharging it when demand peaks.

The BESS is also critical for integrating renewable energy sources like wind and solar. By stabilizing the grid, it ensures intermittent power sources can contribute without compromising reliability. This project is a bold step toward modernizing Yukon’s energy infrastructure and could inspire similar systems in remote communities across the territory.

Photo Highlights:

    •    Overhead shots of the Whitehorse battery energy storage facility.

    •    Time-lapse-style drone captures of the system in operation during peak periods.

The Rise of Renewables – Solar and Wind Power

Renewables are gaining momentum in Yukon’s energy landscape. The Southern Lakes Wind Project is one of the most promising initiatives, harnessing the region’s consistent winds to supplement hydro and reduce reliance on diesel during low-water periods.

Similarly, solar energy has become a vital power source in remote, off-grid communities. Old Crow, for example, is leading the way with solar installations that provide clean, renewable energy to its residents. These projects not only reduce carbon emissions but also promote energy independence and cost savings.

Photo Highlights:

    •    Wind turbines near Mount Sumanik, silhouetted against the northern sky.

    •    Solar installations in Old Crow, with seasonal contrasts of snow and summer greenery.

Regional Collaboration – Atlin Hydro Expansion

Yukon’s energy future is also shaped by partnerships beyond its borders. The Atlin Hydro Expansion Project in northern British Columbia is a prime example. Led by the Taku River Tlingit First Nation, this project aims to increase hydroelectric production in Atlin, with surplus energy delivered to Yukon’s grid via a planned transmission line.

This collaboration highlights the potential for regional partnerships to strengthen Yukon’s energy system while supporting sustainable development for neighboring communities. Once operational, the Atlin project could help offset Yukon’s reliance on diesel generators during peak demand and low-water periods, contributing to the territory’s renewable energy goals.

Photo Highlights:

    •    Drone views of the Atlin hydro station, surrounded by BC’s pristine wilderness.

    •    Proposed transmission corridor linking Atlin to Yukon’s grid.

    •    Community engagement, showcasing Taku River Tlingit leadership in the project.

Bridging the Gap – Industry and Grid Demand

Yukon’s growing economy places additional strain on its closed grid. Industries like mining and tourism, along with new residential developments, contribute to rising energy demands.

Mining, in particular, is a major consumer of electricity, requiring reliable power for both exploration and production. This has led to innovative collaborations between energy providers and industrial partners to implement energy-efficient practices and reduce peak demand pressures.

Projects like the Whitehorse battery system and grid-scale enhancements are helping to bridge the gap between supply and demand, ensuring businesses can thrive without overburdening the grid.

Photo Highlights:

    •    Mining operations powered by the grid, emphasizing the balance between industry and sustainability.

    •    Drone footage of heavy equipment and remote facilities dependent on consistent energy.

Powering the Future – What’s Next?

As energy demands grow, Yukon is charting a bold path forward. Upcoming projects include expanded renewable capacity, improved storage systems, and enhanced grid resilience. Indigenous partnerships are playing a vital role, fostering sustainable energy solutions that benefit both communities and the environment.

The vision for Yukon’s energy future is one of balance—ensuring reliable power for growing industries and communities while preserving the natural beauty that defines the territory. By leveraging innovation and collaboration, Yukon Energy is creating a system that is both self-reliant and sustainable.

Photo Highlights:

    •    Expansive panoramas of Whitehorse at dusk, with the city illuminated by its closed grid.

    •    Construction crews and engineers working on energy projects, symbolizing progress.

Conclusion

Yukon’s closed-grid energy system is a testament to the territory’s resilience and innovation. As the landscape of energy evolves, projects like the Atlin Hydro Expansion, wind and solar developments, and battery storage systems ensure that Yukon can meet future power demands without compromising its natural heritage or self-reliance.

This photo series captures not only the infrastructure that powers Yukon but also the people and ideas driving its energy future forward.