A routine backcountry skiing trip in the Sierra Nevada turned into a devastating tragedy, claiming the lives of six women whose bonds went far beyond adventure.
Mothers, friends, and passionate outdoors enthusiasts, they shared a love for skiing, family, and life together — lives cut heartbreakingly short by a catastrophic avalanche near Lake Tahoe.
The Tragedy
On Tuesday, an avalanche struck during a guided multi-day skiing expedition near Castle Peak, involving 15 participants. Authorities confirmed eight fatalities, with one skier still missing and presumed dead.
Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon described the event as California’s deadliest avalanche and the most lethal in the U.S. since 1981.
The victims, residents of California, Idaho, and the Truckee–Tahoe region, were experienced backcountry skiers, fully equipped with safety gear. Families confirmed the women included Kate Vitt, Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, and sisters Caroline Sekar and Liz Clabaugh. Their families described them as inseparable friends, mothers, and dedicated professionals whose lives were interwoven with their loved ones and community.
Remembering the Women
The victims were cherished not only for their passion for skiing but also for their devotion to family and community. Caroline and Liz’s brother expressed the incomprehensible grief of losing two remarkable women: “These are two of the best people I’ve ever known… I don’t even know how to put it into words.”
Many of the women were connected to Sugar Bowl Academy, a competitive ski community now mourning the loss of these athletes and mentors. Executive Director Stephen McMahon remarked on the profound impact:
“This has affected each and every one of us… The support for the families whose lives have been changed forever shows how special this community is.”
Community Response and Recovery
Rescue efforts began immediately after the avalanche, with multiple agencies including Nevada County Search and Rescue and Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue working under harsh conditions to locate survivors.
Public access to Castle Peak remains closed through mid-March to protect rescuers and prevent further accidents. Families expressed deep gratitude for the tireless efforts and widespread community support, emphasizing their commitment to care for each other in the spirit of the women they lost.
Conclusion
The Lake Tahoe avalanche serves as a sobering reminder of nature’s power and the fragility of life. Yet, amid the sorrow, the memory of these six mothers endures.
Their friendship, family devotion, and passion for adventure leave a lasting legacy, inspiring their communities and all who hear their story. In remembering them, we honor not only their lives but also the spirit of courage, love, and shared joy that defined them.