These Skiers Cleared Out as Group That Would Be Hit by Avalanche Arrived
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by Kurt StreeterFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Two groups of backcountry skiers near Donner Pass experienced drastically different outcomes during a severe snowstorm in early February. One group, consisting of four friends led by Kurt Gensheimer, a seasoned trail builder and veteran skier, decided to leave their cabin before the storm arrived due to favorable weather conditions. Their decision proved life-saving as the same storm later triggered an avalanche that killed at least eight members of another group from Blackbird Mountain Guides.
The tragedy occurred on Tuesday, February 17, when an enormous slab of snow broke loose near Perry’s Point, sweeping 15 people downhill. While six survived and one remains missing, eight were confirmed dead in what is the deadliest avalanche in the U.S. in over four decades. The contrasting fates of the two groups highlight the unpredictable nature of backcountry skiing and the importance of monitoring weather conditions.
The incident occurred near Castle Peak, a popular destination for skiers seeking untouched powder snow. Gensheimer described the storm as the biggest of the season, emphasizing how the decision to leave early likely saved his group from a similar fate. The area is known for its challenging terrain and high risk of avalanches, especially during severe weather events.
This incident underscores the dangers of backcountry skiing and the critical need for avalanche awareness and preparedness. Even experienced groups can be caught off guard, as was the case with Blackbird Mountain Guides, a highly respected outfit. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of
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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/20/2026