Crag Rats 100-year celebration

HOOD RIVER — The Hood River Crag Rats, the oldest mountain search and rescue organization in the United States, will host a community-wide celebration marking a century of lifesaving services on May 30 from 4-8 p.m. at The Ruins in Hood River.

Founded in 1926, the all-volunteer Crag Rats have spent 100 years responding to emergencies ranging from the icy summits of Mount Hood to the rugged corridors of the Columbia River Gorge. The upcoming centennial celebration is free and open to the public, offering a unique opportunity for the community to connect with the team that has served as a cornerstone of regional safety for generations.

Event highlights include live music and a presentation on the group’s history.

“This 100th anniversary celebration is not just a look back at our history, but a celebration of the community that supports us,” said a representative of the organization. “As an all-volunteer team, the proceeds from this community event make a vital contribution to ensuring we are ready for the next 100 years of service.”