‘Highlining’ in Joshua Tree

Jon Fait, 26, gives it a shot. Highliners rely on measured breaths, intense concentration and slow yoga-like movements to keep their footing and suppress their instinctual fear of falling.  (Dan Krauss / For The Times)

Dave Meyers, 25, jumps to a rock while Nathan Huerta, 24, walks the highline.  (Dan Krauss / For The Times)

Jon Fait unhooks himself. Most enthusiasts use a tether to secure themselves to the line, but some dare to go without.  (Dan Krauss / For The Times)

A climbing harness and tether are used for safety.  (Dan Krauss / For The Times)

Jon Fait shows his bloody knuckles from scrambling around on the sharp rocks.  (Dan Krauss / For The Times)

Dave Meyers hangs under the inch-wide line before he takes his turn.  (Dan Krauss / For The Times)