Started in February 2020, the Wyoming Hoist Team, which includes Park County search and rescue members and is led by Jeff Schmidt of Basin, is a highly specialized group of search and rescue volunteers who partner with the Wyoming Army National Guard to bring hoist rescue services across the state. According to a release, the 12 team members can access lost, injured and sick patients who can’t be reached by any other means.

Team members are certified in Avalanche Rescue and are Wilderness First Responders, at a minimum. Several members hold higher levels of medical training including two paramedics, an emergency medical technician and a physician. They are experienced high angle (cliff rescue) technicians and have at least three years of search and rescue experience. In total, the team has approximately 130 years of volunteer search and rescue service. 

Twice a year the team trains with the Wyoming Army National Guard Blackhawk Hoist crews to refresh hoist operation procedures, conduct scenarios, certify on rescue equipment and build working relationships. This biannual training occurred Dec. 3-5 at remote training sites outside of Cheyenne but in the past they have trained in northern Wyoming as well. The team has conducted 15 backcountry rescues.