Deadly Avalanche in Lake Tahoe Claims Eight Lives, Sugar Bowl Academy Community Mourns

NEVADA CITY, Calif. — Eight backcountry skiers have died, and one remains missing and presumed dead, after a devastating avalanche near Lake Tahoe’s Castle Peak on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The tragedy, the deadliest avalanche in the U.S. In more than four decades, has deeply impacted the Sugar Bowl Academy community, with multiple members of the school and their families among the victims.

Avalanche Details and Rescue Efforts

Authorities confirmed that 15 people were caught in the avalanche at the end of a three-day guided trip. Six skiers were rescued after sheltering under a tarp for hours in “highly dangerous” conditions, according to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office . The victims include seven women and two men.

Sugar Bowl Academy Connection

The Sugar Bowl Academy, a private boarding school and ski club near Donner Summit, has confirmed that several members of its community were involved in the avalanche. Stephen McMahon, Sugar Bowl Academy’s head of school, notified parents and employees that “some of the (avalanche) victims are members of our community” . Sources indicate that a group of mothers of ski school students had planned the three-day outing .

Blackbird Mountain Guides Involved

Four guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides, a company offering mountaineering and backcountry ski trips, were part of the group. One of the guides was among the six survivors. The company, which provides safety courses and guides for intermediate to expert skiers, has launched an investigation and paused field operations through the weekend to support the families of those affected . The guides were trained and certified in backcountry skiing and were instructors with the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education.

Deadliest Avalanche in Decades

This avalanche is the deadliest in the U.S. Since 1982, when seven people died in an avalanche at Alpine Meadows . The Castle Peak area is known for its challenging terrain and avalanche risk, with the Donner Land Trust noting that all areas are uncontrolled avalanche terrain requiring appropriate education and equipment .

Respect for Privacy

Authorities and Sugar Bowl Academy are not releasing the names of the victims or survivors out of respect for the families during this hard time. Sugar Bowl Academy stated it is focused on supporting its athletes, students, staff, and families through the tragedy and will continue to provide support in the months and years ahead .