About The Congress
ICAR holds its annual congress to serve as a pivotal gathering for experts and stakeholders in the field of mountain rescue. Typically, the congress convenes representatives from various alpine rescue organizations, including mountain guides, medical professionals, emergency responders, researchers, and policymakers from around the world.
OCTOBER 7–12, 2025
Jackson, Wyoming has been selected as the host city for the 2025 Congress. We are the second U.S. host in ICAR’s history. This is a tremendous honor and recognition for Teton County Search & Rescue and our community.
The primary objectives of the ICAR congress are manifold:
Knowledge Exchange
The congress provides a platform for sharing insights, experiences, and best practices in mountain rescue operations. Participants have the opportunity to learn from each other’s successes and challenges, enhancing their collective understanding of effective rescue techniques, medical interventions, and safety protocols in alpine environments.
Training & Education
Workshops, seminars, and training sessions are conducted during the congress to facilitate professional development among rescue personnel. These sessions may cover a wide range of topics, such as technical rope rescue, avalanche safety, wilderness medicine, and risk management strategies tailored to mountain environments.
Research & Innovation
The congress showcases the latest advancements in technology, equipment, and research relevant to mountain rescue. Experts present findings from studies on topics such as altitude-related illnesses, trauma management in remote settings, and the effectiveness of search and rescue strategies, fostering innovation and continuous improvement in rescue practices.
Networking & Collaboration
The congress serves as a networking hub where participants can establish connections, forge partnerships, and collaborate on joint initiatives to enhance global mountain rescue capabilities. By fostering international cooperation and coordination, the ICAR congress strengthens the collective response to alpine emergencies and promotes solidarity within the mountain rescue community.
Policy Development
Discussions at the congress may also address policy issues related to mountain rescue, including regulatory frameworks, standardization of rescue procedures, and advocacy for improved safety measures in mountainous regions. Through dialogue and exchange of ideas, participants contribute to shaping policies that promote the safety and well-being of mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.