A private ski tour company in the Lake Tahoe backcountry, Blackbird Mountain Guides, has come under fire for what many are calling a “preventable tragedy” following a recent avalanche incident.
Based in Truckee, California, the company boasts a 4.9-star rating on Google, which comes from over 250 reviews highlighting its expert instruction and unforgettable experiences in the backcountry.
Pricing for a guided ski tour through Blackbird starts at $625 per person per night, though costs per person decrease for larger groups. For instance, a group of six can expect to pay around $215 each.
The standard tour involves meeting at the trailhead early in the morning for safety checks, followed by skiing until the afternoon, providing plenty of daylight for a safe return.
In response to the avalanche, Blackbird released a statement about their involvement in the ongoing search and rescue operations. They emphasized their commitment to working closely with local authorities, including the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office.
According to reports, the group affected by the avalanche included four guides and 11 guests, with six individuals being rescued—one of whom was a guide. Tragically, as of Wednesday morning, eight confirmed deaths were reported, with one person still unaccounted for.
The avalanche struck around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday in the Castle Peak region, located north of Interstate 80. Blackbird Mountain Guides was established in 2020 by Zeb Blais and is affiliated with the International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations, offering services ranging from skiing to rock climbing.
The missing skiers were reportedly staying at the Frog Lake Backcountry Hut, a small lodge that accommodates eight guests and features modern amenities like private bathrooms and heating.
