“I’m just happy to be alive.” When Daniel reflects on April 26, 2026, that’s where his story begins. At 32 years old, Daniel was an experienced climber, software engineer, and outdoor enthusiast. Like many who spend years in the mountains, he understood the risks and took pride in his ability
A Promise Kept: Supporting Our Fellow Rescuers in El Potrero Chico When most climbers think of El Potrero Chico (EPC) in northern Mexico, they think of towering limestone walls, endless sunshine, and some of the best multi-pitch sport climbing in the world. Home to more than 750 established routes, EPC has
When Seattle Mountain Rescue first began evaluating electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs), the goal was simple: determine whether they could help rescuers reach patients faster and move equipment more efficiently in the backcountry. After a year of real-world deployments, the answer is becoming increasingly clear: E-mountain bikes are no longer an
Summer is one of the best times to explore Washington’s mountains, forests, and trails. Longer days and sunny weather draw more people outdoors, but warmer temperatures also bring increased risks. Every year, Seattle Mountain Rescue responds to incidents involving dehydration, heat-related illness, navigation errors, and hikers who underestimated the challenges
At 11:53 p.m. on May 1st, the Seattle Mountain Rescue response team was informed of a pending mission response on Infinite Bliss — a route well known in the Pacific Northwest climbing community for both its location and its scale. Stretching across 23 pitches with nearly 2,600 feet of elevation
For more than 75 years, Seattle Mountain Rescue (SMR) has responded to emergencies in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest using strong rescue fundamentals: medical care, rope systems, terrain management, navigation, communication, and highly trained volunteers who keep moving long after most people turn back. As outdoor recreation continues to