Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue

It was 1976, and two 12-year-old boys got lost off the backside of Tahoe’s Northstar ski area. At the time, there was no organized search and rescue team or protocols to find the missing persons. A series of desperate phone calls ensued, and the clock was ticking. One of the boys' father, along with a group of volunteer skiers, headed out into the blizzard to search; unfortunately, it was too late. One of the boys died that day, but the event prompted the formation of the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue, with the father as a founding member.

Based in the Truckee/North Lake Tahoe area, Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue (TNSAR) is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization that works closely with local sheriff’s departments and other agencies to conduct emergency search and rescue operations to those lost or hurt in the wilderness of the rugged Sierra Nevada range. The organization also works to promote winter and backcountry safety for all ages throughout the Tahoe community, including a program for local fourth grade students called Winter Aware, and several high school programs. Our mission remains the same as it did on day one: conduct fast and safe rescues, and educate the public on winter safety.

“Dear TNSAR, thank you for coming to our school to teach us about winter survival. You guys are like real life superheroes.” (2/17/2022 note from a 4th grader)

Our team of volunteers is made up of EMTs, emergency room doctors and nurses, firefighters, ski patrollers, paramedics, and experienced backcountry skiers and snowmobilers who donate their time to help others. The searchers also volunteer in communications, bookkeeping, education, and equipment maintenance. All of our members are trained in Wilderness First Aid and avalanche rescue.

As of 11/14/23, we have responded to a total of 423 searches with 703 search subjects. ~120 active team members support our mission.

Team members outside of our team garage in Tahoe City

High School Scholarship sends 12 high school students to an avalanche companion rescue course every year

Acknowledgements received from people we supported:

"Since the incident, we have spent time reflecting. It was a terrifying experience. We were glad we weren’t alone out there, but the thought of the risk to both of us together especially when thinking of our kids was unimaginable in the moment. It was among the worst nights of our lives and then the best night, and that is because of all of you and your collective efforts. We are humbled and eternally grateful. I have often thought people use the term hero lightly and too casually. You are true heroes in our minds and we are here today because of your commitment, strength, talent, and grit.” (2/7/2023).

”I have had so many thoughts these past few days after our rescue last week. I hardly know how to find the words to express my thanks and deep appreciation to your entire wonderful team. You saved our lives; you are all so kind and generous. Your camaraderie and teamwork was a joy to behold. Your expert guidance, encouragement, and support meant everything to me. I know I couldn’t have climbed out of that gorge without you.” (7/4/2022).

“I just wanted to take a minute to extend my appreciation and say “great job” to you and your team for last week’s Sugar Bowl search and rescue...I recognize the extreme avalanche conditions likely presented some serious safety concerns for you and you team...Please extend my appreciation to your team for their professionalism and dedication to the cause.” (2/10/2021 Placer County Sheriff’s Office).

“There is no doubt, your actions that night saved the life of [our CHP] officer… As first responders, we are often aiding those in peril, not receiving it, and I am humbled beyond words by your actions. During harrowing times like this, I am reminded how fragile life can be and how quickly it can turn. I am truly touched by your selfless actions and appreciative of your heroic efforts that night.” (2/9/2021).

Our primary fundraising event since 1977 is The Great Ski Race in Tahoe City, a community Nordic ski race. Registration is live on Dec 2 - join us as a participant or as a sponsor. https://thegreatskirace.com/

The 2023 Great Ski Race was on in fun snowstorm conditions.