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Truckee Today
By the People, for the People
Tahoe National Forest Closes Castle Peak Area After Deadly Avalanche
The nearly month-long closure is to prioritize first responder access amid recovery efforts after the deadly incident.
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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Tahoe National Forest has issued a nearly one-month closure of the Castle Peak area near Truckee, California, after a deadly avalanche occurred on February 17, resulting in multiple fatalities. The closure is necessary to allow first responders priority access to the area as they work to recover the victims and assess the unstable snowpack conditions.
Why it matters
The Castle Peak avalanche was a tragic incident that claimed multiple lives in the Tahoe region. The extended closure of the area is an important safety measure to protect both the public and first responders as the recovery efforts continue. This event highlights the risks inherent in backcountry winter activities and the need for careful planning and preparation.
The details
On February 17, an avalanche struck the Castle Peak area near Truckee, California, catching a group of 15 skiers, including 11 clients and 4 guides, in the slide. Six people survived, eight were found dead, and one person remains missing. The U.S. Forest Service has now issued a closure of all National Forest lands and trails in the Castle Peak area from February 20 to March 15 to prioritize first responder access and recovery operations, which may involve the use of heavy equipment and explosives to stabilize the snowpack.
- The avalanche occurred on February 17, 2026.
- The Castle Peak area closure is in effect from February 20 to March 15, 2026.
The players
Tahoe National Forest
The U.S. National Forest that oversees the Castle Peak area where the deadly avalanche occurred.
Chris Feutrier
The Tahoe National Forest Supervisor, who stated that the safety of first responders is the top priority during the recovery efforts.
Shannan Moon
The Nevada County Sheriff, who led the search and recovery operations in the aftermath of the avalanche.
What they’re saying
“Our deepest condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones from this tragic incident. Our sincere appreciation to all first responders, law enforcement and partners that are supporting this recovery.”
— Chris Feutrier, Tahoe National Forest Supervisor (people.com)
“This closure is a major public safety need and also helps keep our teams safer throughout the recovery process.”
— Shannan Moon, Nevada County Sheriff (Facebook)
What’s next
Tahoe National Forest officials stated the closure may be rescinded earlier if public safety measures are mitigated, indicating the area could reopen before the scheduled March 15 date depending on conditions.
The takeaway
The extended closure of the Castle Peak area is a necessary safety measure to protect both the public and first responders as the recovery efforts continue following the tragic avalanche. This event underscores the risks inherent in backcountry winter activities and the importance of careful planning and preparation when venturing into such environments.
