Community members in Igloolik, Nunavut, are currently organizing teams and supplies for the 2026 Nunavut Quest dog sled race. This annual event is set to run from Igloolik to Mittimatalik, also known as Pond Inlet, and focuses on celebrating Inuit culture while testing the strength of local dog teams.
As of March 13, 2026, training is already underway on local trails as mushers prepare for the long journey across the Arctic terrain. Organizers from the Igloolik community are looking for more participants to join the teams and are asking for local residents to help with the planning and support.
The Nunavut Quest is known for using traditional travel methods, including wooden qamutiik sleds. The dogs are attached to the sleds using a fan-style harnessing method, which reflects the historical ways Inuit have traveled across the ice for generations.
This annual race highlights traditional dog handling and land-survival skills while bringing regional attention to the North Baffin area. The event is often supported by the Qikiqtani Inuit Association to help ensure that these cultural traditions remain a vital part of the community.
