INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. – Backcountry access in Lake Tahoe received a huge boost thanks to community members participating in the Tahoe Fund’s $10K for TBA matching challenge. The nonprofit organization announced that more than 100 people donated to support the Tahoe Backcountry Alliance (TBA), unlocking a $10,000 gift from the Tahoe Fund and raising over $26,000 to help TBA improve backcountry access for all. 

“We called on backcountry enthusiasts to help meet this challenge for TBA’s 10th anniversary, and they blew us away,” said Verdi DiSesa, Tahoe Fund Board Chair. “Thanks to the incredible support from this dedicated community, we are able to make TBA’s job of increasing safe access to the backcountry a little bit easier.”

For over a decade, the Tahoe Backcountry Alliance has been tackling backcountry access issues like parking availability, snow removal, and limited trailheads. As part of their mission, they also offer cross-country ski and snowshoe experiences as part of the Washoe Tribe’s Youth Expedition Program, and provide opportunities to borrow sno-park passes and gear for free at libraries throughout El Dorado, Placer and Nevada Counties.

“We are deeply grateful to the Tahoe Fund for championing our work and investing in human-powered backcountry access for all,” said Anthony Cupaiuolo, Tahoe Backcountry Alliance Executive Director. “This matching campaign will make a meaningful impact for the growing winter backcountry community—from experienced backcountry skiers and snowboarders using the trailheads we manage, to families accessing snow affordably through free sno-park passes and gear available via our library partnerships.”

As part of the challenge, donors that gifted $35 or more received a TBA membership that corresponded to their gift level, offering them access to a community of backcountry experts as well as fun giveaways. Even though the challenge is over, TBA memberships are always available at tahoebackcountryalliance.org/membership.