Skiers Save Buried Rider at Palisades Tahoe

Two skiers became heroes on February 18 when they spotted something unusual sticking out of the deep powder at Palisades Tahoe, California. Just the tips of skis were visible between two runs, but it was enough to save a life.

The pair stopped immediately and started digging. What they found was terrifying: another skier buried upside down in the deep snow, unable to move or breathe properly. They pulled him out just in time.

Carson Schmidt shared the intense rescue video online to show other skiers the hidden dangers of powder days. The message was simple but urgent: always ski with a buddy who can see you.

The timing made the rescue even more critical. Palisades Tahoe had just received 44 inches of fresh snow that morning, adding to the 29 inches from the day before. The resort had actually closed early the previous day because conditions were so challenging.

That massive storm brought over 10 feet of snow in just four days. The resort went from having 60% of normal snowpack to 104% in less than a week.

Why This Inspires

This rescue shows how paying attention to your surroundings can mean the difference between life and death. The two skiers could have easily missed those ski tips or assumed they were just abandoned equipment. Instead, they trusted their instincts and stopped to investigate.

Their quick action also highlights why skiing with a partner matters so much. Snow immersion suffocation is a real danger in deep powder, especially around trees where voids can form. Since 2001, California has recorded more snow immersion deaths than any other state.

The rescued skier was incredibly lucky. Most people who die in tree wells or deep snow accidents were skiing with partners, but those partners weren't close enough to help in time. Visual contact means actually watching each other ski, not just meeting up at the lift.

The two rescuers turned what could have been a devastating tragedy into a teaching moment. Their video reminds every skier that those dream powder days come with serious responsibility to watch out for each other.

Thanks to two observant skiers who chose to investigate rather than ski past, one person went home safe to their family that night.