Dutton's love led him to a vast knowledge of the backcountry surrounding the Tahoe Basin. As a result, in 1976, Billy helped establish Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue (TNSR).

"Bill was our strongest skier. I was always sure to be with the likes of him when we teamed up on searches," says Doug Read, another original and current member of TNSR. Read recounts the time when Dutton herringboned eight miles up and out of a canyon near Diamond Crossing carrying a hurt and near death woman on his back. They both returned to safety and recovery.

"All he asked was if I would carry his poles," recalls Read. "He was the type who makes our community such a wonderful place to live."

The annual race, open to Nordic skiers, snowshoers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, covers 3.2 miles; it ascends 2,000 feet along the Mountain Run to High Camp.