Castle Peak Avalanche Near Lake Tahoe: 9 Killed, 6 Survived

TRUCKEE, Calif. Nine people were killed and six survived after an avalanche struck a guided backcountry ski group near Castle Peak in Nevada County on February 17, 2026.

The group included 15 skiers returning from a multi-day trip near the Frog Lake huts. Severe snowfall, wind, low visibility, and continuing avalanche danger complicated the initial rescue and later recovery work.

Six Skiers Rescued

Search and rescue teams reached six survivors in blizzard conditions. Two were transported to hospitals, while responders continued working in dangerous terrain to locate and recover the remaining members of the group.

All Nine Victims Recovered

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office later confirmed that all nine victims had been recovered. County officials described the incident as California’s deadliest avalanche and said the response involved dozens of personnel from multiple agencies.

Read the Nevada County update.

Castle Peak Location

Castle Peak is near Donner Summit northwest of Lake Tahoe. View the general Castle Peak area in Google Maps. The map is for geographic context and is not a safe-route recommendation.

Investigation and Follow-Up

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office continued investigating the avalanche after the recovery operation. Read the related follow-up: Authorities Investigating Blackbird Mountain Guides After the Castle Peak Avalanche.

Current Backcountry Safety Information

This is a historical news report, not a current avalanche forecast. Anyone entering Tahoe backcountry terrain should check the Sierra Avalanche Center for the latest forecast, observations, and education before traveling.