About the crew

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We are a specialized wildland fire crew based out of Salmon, ID, trained to rapidly and effectively deploy into remote wildfires via helicopter rappelling. Our primary  role is initial attack response into rugged, inaccessible terrain where traditional firefighting methods are impractical. In addition, we play a critical role in large fire support across the nation.

Our highly skilled crew undergoes rigorous physical and mental training in rappelling techniques, fire behavior, and emergency response - ensuring we can operate safely, efficiently and effectively in high risk environments.

Our work demands precision, adaptability, and cohesive teamwork, often under hazardous conditions, making Heli-Rappelling an essential asset in the United States Forest Service's wildfire management strategy.

 The Salmon-Challis National Forest covers over 4.3 million acres in east-central Idaho and consistently experiences one of the highest initial attack fire loads in the Intermountain West, with a 30-year average of 105 wildfire starts annually. Due to the extremely steep and remote nature of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, aerially delivered firefighters are the primary initial attack resource.  

Hosting three helicopters and our large number of rappellers, we have an abundance of training opportunities available to us.  In addition to supporting local initial attack operations, we frequently provide boosters to other rappel bases as needed.  Based on seasonal demand and availability within the airbase, crew members may also pursuit details with hotshot crews, fire use modules, engines, incident management teams, or other units that support the career development of our personnel.