LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: MAMMOTH NORDIC PATROL
Getting to Know Nordic Patrol:
Our primary roles are to provide safety, guidance, first aid, and rescue services to backcountry skiers and the broader community. We are on the trails for anyone in need, offering assistance ranging from injury treatment to coordinating rescues off the mountain. We also provide snow surveys for the Parks and Recreations in the winter and spring time. We are always looking for new volunteers and we provide all the training and certifications needed to become a Mammoth Backcountry Patroller.
Our team is inspired by a shared commitment to public safety and first aid, with backgrounds that include 20 to 50 years of volunteer service with the National Ski Patrol at various mountains and within the forestry sector. This collective experience drives our passion for supporting both seasoned skiers and newcomers alike.
A typical day for us begins around 8 a.m. by contacting Inyo Dispatch and signing into service with them. We are often located in either the Sherwin's or the Lakes Basin. We move to areas with the highest public activity, focusing on education regarding snow safety and avalanche awareness or just where to have fun. Our goal is to ensure that everyone enjoys the backcountry safely and responsibly.
For those unfamiliar, Mammoth Nordic Patrol is a backcountry ski patrol serving the Inyo National Forest each winter. We can be contacted when we are on duty by calling 911 or Inyo Dispatch for an emergency.
For non-emergency we can be contacted on our website, via email at mammothnordicskipatrol@gmail.com, or on our social media sites Facebook and Instagram.
On the Trails:
We primarily patrol the Sherwin's and Lakes Basin, as these areas offer the most terrain for the public and attract the highest volume of visitors seeking untouched snow. These routes are special because they blend challenging terrain with opportunities for education and community engagement. Depending on the snow and the public, we can also patrol in other areas within the Forest Service district, outside of Mammoth and June resort areas.
Common situations we address include providing forest information, advising on snow conditions, directing people to the best runs, and occasionally responding to incidents requiring first aid or law enforcement involvement.
One memorable experience was supporting the Mammoth Biathlon as first responders during its time at Mammoth and Tamarack. This event highlighted the importance of rapid response and teamwork.
Safety, Stewardship & Community:
The patrol enhances safety and community engagement by setting up a first aid tent and hosting free educational events, such as backcountry awareness, CPR, dog CPR, and general first aid. Our presence in the Sherwin parking lot makes these resources accessible to all.
We view our work as integral to stewardship of the winter environment, not only by promoting safety but also through collaboration. We partner with Inyo National Forest, Inyo Parks and Recreation, and Inyo Dispatch, and we contribute to snow studies measuring water content for parks and recreation management.
Why It Matters:
The presence of Mammoth Nordic Patrol is especially important in Mammoth Lakes due to the need for public safety and education in a popular and sometimes challenging wilderness area. We strive to provide knowledge and support that many trail users may not realize they need until it becomes essential.
The People Behind the Patrol:
Our team at Nordic Patrol is made up of skilled, community-driven individuals who bring a wealth of experience to their work. From public recreation to outdoor safety, our patrollers are dedicated to giving back to the community and share a genuine care for others and this beautiful part of the country in which we live and play.
Great Nordic patrollers possess qualities such as compassion, teamwork, and a strong sense of responsibility. Many of our members have extensive training in first aid, navigation, avalanche safety, and other outdoor skills, ensuring they are prepared for any situation on the trails.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of this team is the opportunity to give back to our community while enjoying the beauty of backcountry skiing. We take pride in making a positive impact while pursuing our passion.
Looking Ahead:
As we look to the remainder of this season and future winters, we are excited for the anticipation of new snow, especially with fresh powder expected by the beginning of February. Our team is eager to continue providing safe and enjoyable experiences for everyone.
Supporting Nordic Patrol and Winter Recreation:
The community plays a vital role in supporting Nordic Patrol and responsible winter recreation. We organize fundraising events and announce them on our social media channels, which can be accessed through our website at mammothskipatrol.com. Your support helps us maintain our operations and continue serving the community.
We welcome anyone interested in joining or supporting Nordic Patrol! If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please feel free to reach out. Your support makes a real difference for our team and those who enjoy winter recreation.
Rapid-Fire Fun:
Coffee or hot chocolate:
Why not both! We frequently have free cocoa and coffee available at trailhead to share with people who stop by to chat.Favorite winter trail:
Sherwin Creek TrailheadGo-to patrol snack:
Granola barsBest time for a ski:
SunriseOne word to describe Nordic Patrol:
Epic
We hope to see you out on the trails and thank you for being part of our community!
About Mammoth Lakes Recreation
Formed in 2014, Mammoth Lakes Recreation’s mission is to deliver cutting edge sustainable recreation, mobility, and arts & culture opportunities and infrastructure for the benefit of the community and natural environment of Mammoth Lakes. For more information, go to www.mammothlakesrecreation.org.