Blackbird Mountain Guides shuts down months after deadly Castle Peak avalanche

With the harsh winter of 2026 still fresh in the memories of Atherton residents, the ski company at the epicenter of one of California's deadliest avalanches has closed its doors. Blackbird Mountain Guides, which was leading a backcountry ski trip when nine people lost their lives in the Castle Peak avalanche in February, is no longer operating. The closure comes after a series of controversies and fines from Cal/OSHA that totaled over $150,000.

What Happened

On February 17, 2026, the company was leading a group of 15 skiers in the Castle Peak area when an avalanche struck. Three guides and six clients perished, making it the deadliest avalanche in California history and the most severe in the United States since 1981. The avalanche was set off by a blizzard, but questions remain about why the group chose to venture into the backcountry despite the severe weather conditions.

Survivors of the avalanche include Carrie Atkin, 42, from South Lake Tahoe; Liz Clabaugh, 52, from Boise, Idaho; and Caroline Sekar, 45, from San Francisco. The surviving guide has not spoken publicly about the decision-making process that day. The victims were Andrew Alissandratos, 34, from Verdi, Nevada; Michael Henry, 30, from Tampa Bay, Florida; Nicole 'Niki' Choo, 42, from South Lake Tahoe; Carrie Atkin, 42, from South Lake Tahoe; Liz Clabaugh, 52, from Boise, Idaho; Danielle Keatley, 44, from Marin County; Kate Morse, 45, from Marin County; and Kate Vitt, 43, from Marin County.

Following the incident, Cal/OSHA fined the company over $150,000 for violations. The largest fine of $81,000 was issued for 'Failing to correct the imminent hazard posed by traveling in avalanche terrain when the avalanche danger was rated high.' The company has disputed these findings, filing an appeal that remains pending.

Blackbird Mountain Guides' website now features a message stating, 'Blackbird Mountain Guides is no longer operating. We are forever grateful for the kindness of our community.' The company's closure has left many in the community grappling with the loss and questioning the safety measures in place for backcountry skiing trips.

Community Reaction

The loss of nine lives, including three guides, has had a profound impact on the community. Hundreds gathered in Truckee, California, for a vigil to remember those who died. The victims included several mothers, including Carrie Atkin and Kate Morse, both from Marin County. The event was a somber reminder of the risks associated with backcountry skiing and the importance of responsible decision-making.

A large crowd gathered in Truckee, California, to remember the nine people who died in the avalanche. The victims were not just numbers but individuals with families and friends who will miss them dearly. The community's reaction has been one of mourning and reflection, with many questioning the safety protocols in place for such trips.

Survivors of the avalanche have spoken about the tragedy, but details of their experiences are scarce. The surviving guide, who has not spoken publicly, is likely facing significant emotional and psychological challenges. The closure of Blackbird Mountain Guides has left a void in the local skiing community, with many wondering what will replace this once-trusted service.

Survivors' Stories

The survivors of the avalanche have been tight-lipped about their experiences, but their stories are crucial to understanding the events that led to the tragedy. The surviving guide, who was among the six who survived, has not yet spoken publicly about the decision to venture into the backcountry despite the severe weather. The avalanche was set off by a blizzard, but questions remain about why the group chose to continue the trip.

One of the survivors, Caroline Sekar, 45, from San Francisco, has been seen in public since the incident but has not spoken about her experiences. Her silence is understandable given the trauma of losing friends and colleagues. The other survivors, including Carrie Atkin and Kate Morse, have also been seen in public but have not commented on the events that led to the avalanche.

What's Next

The closure of Blackbird Mountain Guides has left many in the community wondering what the future holds for backcountry skiing in the region. The company's appeal of the Cal/OSHA citations is still pending, and wrongful death lawsuits are likely to follow. The incident has raised questions about the safety measures in place for backcountry skiing trips and the responsibility of companies leading such groups.

Local authorities and safety organizations are likely to review the incident to determine what changes, if any, are needed to ensure the safety of future backcountry skiing trips. The community is also grappling with the loss and questioning the safety protocols in place. The incident has highlighted the importance of responsible decision-making in dynamic environments like the backcountry.

The closure of Blackbird Mountain Guides is a stark reminder of the risks associated with backcountry skiing and the importance of responsible decision-making. The company's appeal of the Cal/OSHA citations is still pending, and wrongful death lawsuits are likely to follow. The incident has raised questions about the safety measures in place for backcountry skiing trips and the responsibility of companies leading such groups.

Marcus's Take

The closure of Blackbird Mountain Guides is a somber reminder of the risks associated with backcountry skiing and the importance of responsible decision-making. The company's appeal of the Cal/OSHA citations is still pending, and wrongful death lawsuits are likely to follow. The incident has raised questions about the safety measures in place for backcountry skiing trips and the responsibility of companies leading such groups. The community is grappling with the loss and questioning the safety protocols in place.

For families and neighbors here, it's a stark reminder of the importance of strong marriages and committed relationships. The loss of nine lives, including three guides, has left a void in the community. The incident has highlighted the importance of responsible decision-making in dynamic environments like the backcountry. As we move forward, it's important to reflect on the lessons learned and ensure that future incidents are prevented.

The closure of Blackbird Mountain Guides is a wake-up call for the community. It's a reminder that while the American dream of stable, loving households is important, it's equally important to ensure the safety of our communities. The incident has raised questions about the safety measures in place for backcountry skiing trips and the responsibility of companies leading such groups. As we move forward, it's important to reflect on the lessons learned and ensure that future incidents are prevented.