ANNOUNCEMENT

BackcountrySOS is sunsetting at the end of 2026

After years of helping backcountry adventurers connect with emergency services, BackcountrySOS will no longer receive app updates or active support after December 31, 2026.

If you already have the app installed, it will continue to function — so there's no need to remove it. In an emergency, it can still send your location and status via text-to-911 as long as the app remains on your device.

Since BackcountrySOS was first developed, both iPhone and Android devices have added built-in emergency satellite communication features, allowing you to contact emergency services even without cellular coverage. We recommend familiarizing yourself with your phone's built-in emergency SOS capabilities before heading into the backcountry.

We're grateful to everyone who has supported this project, and especially to the Teton County Search & Rescue Foundation for making it possible. Stay safe out there.

 
 

Even with the best preparation, skills and behavior, sometimes accidents happen. If they do, BackcountrySOS is a simple-to-use smartphone app that allows you to quickly get your status and location information to emergency personnel.

  • Low power. It will only use your phone's GPS for the brief period where it fetches your location.
  • High contrast. The app is easy to read in bright sunlight, and won't kill your vision at night.
  • No setup. You don't need to setup an account or login. If it's on your phone, the app is ready to use when you need it.
  • Data efficient. The app works as long as you have enough signal to squeeze out a text message. It will work in places where you can't get data access or make a voice call. 
 
 

Before you head into the backcountry for your next adventure, download the BackcountrySOS app for iPhone or Android. It's free and no registration is required.

Download for iPhone
Download for Android
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If you're lost, trapped, or injured in a remote location, BackcountrySOS is a great tool to have in your arsenal. The app works wherever text-to-911 service is available. Almost 1,500 counties support text-to-911 with more added each month.

Additionally, the following counties specifically monitor for BackcountrySOS communication on their 911 systems:

  • Blaine County, Idaho

  • Boise County, Idaho

  • Teton County, Idaho

  • Meagher County, Montana

  • Missoula County, Montana

  • Grand County, Utah

  • Albany County, Wyoming

  • Carbon County / Rawlins, Wyoming

  • Natrona County, Wyoming

  • Park County, Wyoming

  • Sweetwater County, Wyoming

  • Teton County, Wyoming

Click the button below to add your search-and-rescue region to the app.

Add my region
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If you have any questions or comments about the BackcountrySOS app, email us at info@backcountrysos.com.

Free access to the BackcountrySOS app is made possible by the generous support of the Teton County Search & Rescue Foundation as part of their BackcountyZero project. If you're interested in supporting this effort, please consider a donation.

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