LIVE INCIDENT UPDATES

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Statement from Blackbird Mountain Guides regarding incident near Castle Peak

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 17, 2026 - 7.30pm PT

TRUCKEE, CA — Blackbird Mountain Guides is currently responding to a serious backcountry incident involving an avalanche that occurred this morning, February 17, near the Frog Lake huts in the Castle Peak area.

A total of 12 clients and four guides had been staying at the Frog Lake huts since February 15. The group was in the process of returning to the trailhead at the conclusion of a three-day trip when the incident occurred.

The leadership team at Blackbird Mountain Guides is working in full coordination with the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office and Nevada County Search and Rescue to support the ongoing rescue operation.

Blackbird Mountain Guides is in direct contact with the emergency contacts of the affected clients and guides and is providing them with regular updates as verified information becomes available.

Media Contact: All further inquiries regarding the status of the rescue operation should be directed to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office and Search and Rescue.