The Hodgson Trophy is presented to the contingent that demonstrates the best understanding of the philosophy of the Arctic Winter Games and most exemplifies the spirit of fair play during the Games week.
Mission staff, chefs de mission's, assistant chefs de mission's, coaches, AWGIC directors, media, Host Society board members and senior staff vote during Games week to decide the winning contingent.
The trophy is awarded by the AWGIC during the Closing Ceremonies where the winning team is presented with a framed picture of the trophy and a special Hodgson Trophy pin and pin bag.
The Hodgson Trophy was donated to the Arctic Winter Games Corporation in 1978 by Commissioner S.M. Hodgson.
The distinctive trophy, which is a piece of Inuit artwork from the Canadian Arctic, features a narwhal tusk that stands as the centrepiece mounted on a soapstone base. A walrus is carved into the base wrapping itself around the tusk. Near the top, a soapstone bear clings to the tusk, symbolizing "reaching for the top" in competition and fair play.
The trophy is now located at the Whitehorse Canada Games Centre, after being moved from Sport Yukon in January 2020.