So happy they survived. Suggestion: carry a personal locator beacon or satellite messenger device (REI has several). Put it in your pack and forget about it till you need it. Some of my friends now have one so that when hiking alone they can send an SOS. May seem pricey but if it prevents disaster?

Terrific sensitive article! Congratulations Sue. I know you to be a great listener and compassionate. There is much to learn from this article in term of our mortality and our understanding of wilderness at our doorstep. I am awed and filled with respect for the challenges that are at our doorsteps. Well done everyone involved!

That was really dense vegetation they were in, kudus to helicopter crew getting them out of there!
Interesting story.