Verde Search and Rescue-VSAR

05/24/2026

Could Social Media Be Landing Hikers in Danger? This Study Suggests So.

A group of researchers from University of California, Irvine investigated the link between SAR incidents, park visitation, and Twitter posts. Their conclusions could inform how hikers portray their own adventures—and view those of others—online. Read more at the link in comments.

05/24/2026

Two calls to the area of The Crack (aka Bell Trail) or Apache Maiden Trail in two days (trail from above the Crack). We are at mission #42 for the year. The Crack is 3 miles from the Bell Trail TH. No shade. How much water should you drink …. Everything you can carry. No joke. Most SAR have a 3 Liter bladder for their pack and two bottles of water to share. Please plan. Take food and essentials. A cell phone charger is fantastic. Cell service is not available at The Crack. Wear good shoes not sandals. Although we can duct tape your sandals to your feet if need be.

Hike Safe-
VSAR

05/19/2026

05/03/2026

The CalTopo system is a fantastic tool used by many SAR teams. We are grateful for the mapping tool and the gps locator that is involved in the system.

Cochise County Search and Rescue uses new technology to find lost hikers faster⤵️

04/29/2026

VSAR started in 1986 when there was a need for a mounted horse posse to assist with the recovery of a man who had died on Black Canyon Trail. The VSAR team was created as a community need to support our local emergency services and managed by Yavapai County Sheriff. Verde Search and Rescue has grown through the years and now includes 38 members. Specialties of Drone operations, K9 search, rope operations, Mountain Bike rapid response, 4x4 vehicles, and horse mounted response are maintained by volunteers. 40 years of dedication with many volunteers through the years. Thank you to everyone for your service and dedication to community.

Hike safe
-VSAR

04/27/2026

Searching well takes practice.
Rose Bacon is the team lead of the VSAR horse mounted team. They spent Sunday working a mock search for a missing child. A base was established with a VSAR member managing, and they deployed three horses/riders to search systematically. The advantage is height and a good walking speed on a horse. They found 10 of 10 clues in an efficient time. Great training preparing for important searches.

Hike safe
-VSAR

04/23/2026

VSAR received The Spirit of philanthropy Award for Non profit of the Year. ACF of Sedona honored VSAR and several others today at Agave of Sedona.

-Business Benefactor of the year-Thunder Mountain Bikes-Mike Raney
-Community Collaborator of the year-Marty Glinsky
-Volunteer of the year-Amy Stearns
-Philanthropist of the year-Gail Milliken
-Lifetime Achievement Award- Terrie Frankel

Thank you to Sandi Heysinger for our nomination.

To be recognized by such a phenomenal group that supports community projects was an incredible honor. Thank you to our volunteers. You represent the best of society and show up when needed.

Proud Volunteer
-Team manager/Captain Dondi West