The Great Ski Race
March 5, Truckee
The 40th annual Great Ski Race, a cherished tradition in North Lake Tahoe, offers a 30K (18-mile) event that attracts hundreds of participants each year. The race begins at Tahoe Cross Country in Tahoe City and winds through the scenic forests and mountains, navigating groomed trails before reaching the finish line at Cottonwood Restaurant in Truckee. This event is not just a competition; it is a celebration of winter sports, community, and the beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Ski racers, touring skiers, and disabled athletes alike gather to test their endurance and skill, driven by the thrill of the race and the promise of the famous finish-line festivities. The end of the race is marked by a lively party featuring live music, a hot lunch, refreshments, and raffles, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. 
The Great Ski Race Fundraiser serves a noble cause as the primary fundraiser for the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue Team. This dedicated group of volunteer skiers and snowmobilers works tirelessly to locate lost individuals in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The proceeds from the race are crucial in supporting the team’s efforts to purchase essential equipment and to run winter survival education programs, which are vital for the safety of both residents and visitors in the area.
Participants can register for the race at varying fee levels: $60 if registered by February 24, $70 until March 4, and $110 on race day (March 5). Skiers aged 18 and under can register for a reduced fee of $25. Beyond the entry fees, tax-deductible donations to the Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue Team are welcomed and greatly appreciated, allowing supporters to further contribute to this important cause.
The race entry fee includes several perks to enhance the experience. Participants receive a commemorative T-shirt, access to refreshments at two mid-course stations, and a hot lunch at the finish line. To facilitate logistics, shuttle buses will be available to transport skiers from Cottonwood to the starting line beginning at 7 a.m., with reservations required. In the afternoon, buses will also bring skiers back to Tahoe City between 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information and to register for the event, visit the official race website at thegreatskirace.com. Whether you are a seasoned racer, a casual skier, or someone looking to support a worthy cause, the Great Ski Race promises an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, camaraderie, and the stunning backdrop of North Lake Tahoe.
