Blackbird Mountain Guides Closes After Avalanche Killed Nine
12th November 2026
15 people had been part of the trip in California, with six survivors. There have been questions over decisions made by the guides and investigations continue. NEW
Three of the deceased were guides with the company.
The tragedy happened near Castle Peak in California and was the deadliest avalanche in the state and the worst avalanche in the USA since 1981.
“Blackbird Mountain Guides is no longer operating,” said the company has said in a statement on its web site.
“We are forever grateful for the kindness of our community.”
Image c/o Blackbird Mountains Guides.
The avalanche was over half a mile in length with a depth of around 2m.
The survivors took shelter in make-shift tents before being rescued.
Two of the six survivors had to be carried back and could not walk because of the injuries they sustained in the avalanche.
Among the survivors, one was a guide and five were clients of the Blackbird Mountain guided tour.
See here for the PlanetSKI news report from the time, February 2026:
The company had faced many questions over the tragedy that happened during the middle of a significant storm.
There has been scrutiny over the decision to continue the trip despite the severity of weather conditions.
The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, Cal/OSHA, has issued $151,300 (£110,968) in fines against Blackbird Mountain Guides for seven alleged violations it found.
The largest fine, $81,000 (£60,000 ) was for “failing to correct the imminent hazard posed by traveling in avalanche terrain when the avalanche danger was rated high.”
Blackbird Mountain Guides has filed a formal appeal and says that it believes it was in “full compliance” with all regulatory requirements
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