On September 29, 2025, the Washington State Animal Response Team (WASART) executed a challenging rescue mission to save Rosie, a large-breed dog stranded 7.5 miles from the trailhead on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) in the rugged Goat Rocks Wilderness. The operation unfolded after the dog’s owner was injured while hiking and airlifted out, leaving Rosie secured but alone in the backcountry.
The call for assistance came Monday afternoon, prompting WASART’s Team 1 to deploy immediately, staging near the trailhead overnight for an early start. Equipped with pet first aid supplies, ropes, and rigging gear, the team set out at first light to navigate the demanding terrain. A second team, driving 3-5 hours from the Seattle area, followed with a rescue litter and wheel in case Rosie needed to be carried out.
The PCT’s Goat Rocks section presented formidable challenges: loose scree, unstable rocks, snowfields, and unpredictable weather. A snowfield covering the trail forced Team 1 to cautiously traverse a field of obstacles, testing each step for stability. High winds and biting wind chill along a ridge line added to the difficulty. Using coordinates provided by the helicopter crew, the team spotted the owner’s backpack but struggled to locate Rosie, whose coloring blended with the rocky terrain.
Two members of Team 1 carefully descended a steep, narrow trail (only 6–12 inches wide with slopes of 30–55 degrees) to reach Rosie, found 150 feet below, sitting on a sleeping bag. The dog initially growled as the rescuers approached. They paused, giving her time to adjust, before untangling her leash from rocks. With encouragement Rosie stood and followed them back to the ridge line, where she was given treats and water, earning her trust.
Opting for a safer route, the team crossed a snowfield to a sandy, beach-like area near snowmelt, allowing Rosie a chance to drink. Reuniting with Team 2, who had hauled additional gear up the trail, the group was relieved to find the dog strong enough to hike out unassisted. After a grueling 12-hour, 15-mile round trip, the animal was safely loaded into the rescue truck where she promptly fell asleep for the drive to the Packwood Fire Department.
