Yavapai County Search and Rescue Team

05/30/2026

On Memorial Day, YCSRT volunteers responded to three calls for assistance.

In the morning, Backcountry was asked to assist Prescott Fire Department with a subject, with a possible broken leg in the Thumb Butte area.

In the afternoon, Backcountry was sent to the Watershed Trailhead on Senator Highway to assist a mountain biker who feel off the trail and was unable to get back up the rough terrain. He was about 2.5 miles away from the trailhead, and not seriously injured.

In the evening, Southern successfully supported a family that was stranded while off-roading in the Wilhoit area.

In total, almost 30 volunteers responded to these three missions. Well done and thanks for your commitment.

05/29/2026

Think you know Ready, Set, Go? Here’s your refresher!

READY: Create defensible space, build a go-bag, make a plan, and sign up for alerts.

SET: Stay alert and prepare to evacuate — don’t wait for a knock at your door.

GO: Evacuate immediately when told. Early action saves lives!

Wildfire season is here, be prepared.

Learn more at www.yavapaiready.gov/wildfires

05/28/2026

Why Has 2026 Been Such a Bad Year for Snakebites?

Across the western U.S., a higher-than-average number of hikers have suffered venomous snakebites this spring, including at least three who died. Backpacker breaks down the factors driving this year's early start to snake season.

Read more in the comments 👇️

05/28/2026

VSAR brought this to our attention. Thanks team.

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.

05/27/2026

How Rescuers Lifted a 16,000-Pound Boulder to Save a Trapped Mount Hood Climber

When a sudden rockslide pinned a climber near Timberline Lodge, it triggered a massive, highly coordinated response involving heavy rigging, a field surgical team flown in by helicopter, and nine rescue agencies. Read more in the comments.

05/27/2026

05/24/2026

05/22/2026

On May 20, YCSRT mountain bike search and rescue operators participated in the 24th annual Ride of Silence. Held for the 12th consecutive year in downtown Prescott, over 50 riders rode a silent five mile procession to honor cyclists, killed or injured while riding on public roads.

Between 1100 and 1400 cyclists per year have been killed in the U.S. over the past five years. On average, 40 Arizonians have been killed over the same time span.

05/19/2026