A tragic avalanche in Tahoe National Forest has become one of the deadliest incidents of its kind in the state’s history. Authorities responded after receiving a 911 call on Feb. 17 at around 11:30 a.m. reporting a major slide near Castle Peak.
The avalanche struck in the Castle Peak area near Lake Tahoe, a popular destination for backcountry skiing. Emergency crews quickly launched a large search and rescue operation as details about those involved began to emerge.
According to officials, a group of 15 skiers was caught in the avalanche at the end of a three-day backcountry trip. The group included 11 clients and four professional guides participating in an organized excursion.
The trip had been arranged by Blackbird Mountain Guides, a company that leads guided skiing experiences in remote terrain. Such trips require experience, planning, and careful monitoring of snow conditions.
