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Mill Valley Today
By the People, for the People
8 Killed in California Avalanche During Backcountry Ski Trip
Victims had deep ties to Lake Tahoe's alpine community, including the Sugar Bowl Academy.
Feb. 25, 2026 at 5:55pm
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A group of 15 backcountry skiers were hit by a deadly avalanche in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, leaving 8 dead and 1 missing. The skiers had connections to the local alpine recreation community, including the Sugar Bowl Academy. Rescue efforts were hampered by ongoing severe winter weather conditions in the area.
Why it matters
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of backcountry skiing, even for experienced skiers, and the need for robust safety protocols and rescue capabilities in remote mountain regions. The loss of life within a tight-knit community also underscores the profound impact such events can have.
The details
The group of 15 skiers were returning from remote huts at high elevation when they were struck by the avalanche on Tuesday. Eight were killed and one remains missing, with the bodies still to be recovered due to ongoing blizzard conditions. The skiers had connections to the Sugar Bowl Academy, an elite ski school, as well as the Blackbird Mountain Guides company that organized the trip. The guides were trained in backcountry safety, but the avalanche risk was high in the area at the time.
- The ski trip began on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
- The avalanche occurred on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
- Rescue efforts were still ongoing as of Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
The players
Sugar Bowl Academy
An elite ski school in the Lake Tahoe area that had strong connections to the victims of the avalanche.
Blackbird Mountain Guides
The company that organized the backcountry ski trip where the avalanche occurred. Their guides were trained in avalanche safety.
Stephen McMahon
The executive director of the Sugar Bowl Academy, who issued a statement mourning the loss of victims with connections to the school.
Zeb Blais
The founder of Blackbird Mountain Guides, who said the company has launched an investigation and paused field operations.
Max Perrey
The mayor of Mill Valley, California, who confirmed that some of the victims were women from his city.
What they’re saying
“We are an incredibly close and connected community. This tragedy has affected each and every one of us.”
— Stephen McMahon, Executive Director, Sugar Bowl Academy
“We don't have all the answers yet, and it may be some time before we do. In the meantime, please keep those impacted in your hearts.”
— Zeb Blais, Founder, Blackbird Mountain Guides
What’s next
Rescue teams are waiting for the severe winter weather to clear before attempting to recover the bodies of the victims. Authorities will also continue investigating the details of the avalanche and the actions of the ski group and guides.
The takeaway
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the extreme risks and unpredictable nature of backcountry skiing, even for experienced skiers and guides. It underscores the need for robust safety protocols, comprehensive avalanche forecasting, and effective rescue capabilities in remote mountain regions popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
