Welcome back to our special four-part series dedicated to search and rescue.

If you missed our last episode, you're going to want to go back and start there.

In the world of backcountry search and rescue, there are some environments that require proficiency

beyond the standard tactics.

Semedy Valley, where rock climbers come to test their metal against the park's towering

granite walls, is one of those places.

Rescues in the vertical realm require not only stamina and top tier climbing skills, but

knowledge of ropework, first aid, and a calm demeanor to help someone in need while dangling

thousands of feet in the air.

Yosemite Search and Rescue, or Yosar, as it's known, is home to some of the most experienced

rescue professionals and volunteers in the country.

For many search and rescue workers, operating in Yosemite is a career-long goal.

It's because the men and women who make up Yosar are superstars of technical rescues,

and for those who require their help, that's an awfully good thing.

And one of those people was Tim Watts.

I made a decision to survive in that survival mode.

The idea of dying wasn't in my head.

I knew immediately it was the worst case scenario.

I was in a fight for my life situation.

Whenever you walk out on these trails, you're in their house.

I'm Louisa Almanes, and you're listening to Out-Alive by Backpacker.

In each episode of this podcast, we'll bring you real stories of real people who survived

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