Tahoe Backcountry Ski Patrol (TBSP.org) have created the Tahoe Backcountry Radio Program. The program allows recreational users in the same connected terrain to use common FRS radio channels to communicate about avalanche conditions, coordinate travel in complex terrain and render aid in event of emergency.
Backcountry Community Radio was developed in Telluride ten years ago; now used in 12 regions across CO, UT, and WA.
Radio Basics for Shared Terrain
Radio Setup & Use
- Bring an FRS radio (dual-channel recommended)
Before your trip
- Set the community channel (privacy code 30) for your trailhead
- Choose a partner channel next to the community channel
At the trailhead
- Dual-channel radios: Monitor partner + community channels
- Single-channel radios: Use community channel; announce when switching
When to Use the Community Channel
- Hazards observed
- Entering complex terrain
- Clear of a line or feature
- Emergency or no cell service
Radio etiquette
- Move to another channel for extended chatter
- Keep messages brief
Please read the article in Tahoe Daily Tribune for a good overview of the program. It gives the human perspective. The article also appeared in the Tahoe Magazine winter issue on page 98. We were also featured in The High Route.
Trail Stewards are our advocates
Trail Stewards are our advocates on the trail. The functions we would like you to perform are:
- Prominently carry your radio and demonstrate good usage
- Ask people on the trail if they have heard of Backcountry Community Radio
- Monitor the trail signs and radio usage
- Use the trail check-in page to report missing or damaged signs, radio usage by others and how we can improve the program
Trail Steward training presentation
Complete our usage survey to be entered to win a Rocky Talkie Expedition Radio.
If you would like to volunteer, please complete our community survey.
Come meets us at the Tahoe Split Fest February 13-15 in South Lake Tahoe at the American Legion. See the events page for details.
Tahoe Radio Zones
- View Tahoe zones map in Caltopo. It is easier to view if you change the base map to forest service.
- Tahoe Backcountry Community Radio brochure
- Other California regions Caltopo – Let us know if you would like to promote community radio in your region.
Subscribe to Our Emails
- Take our survey to let us know your needs, how you can help and subscribe.
