Thanks so much for your kind words and thoughts, Tim! Yes, it’s definitely a disappointment that they published this.

So cool, Sue!! Such a rare combo, it seems (veterinarian/SAR/female), and it’s always fun to know there’s another unicorn out there! 🙂

Love this, Jeff! Often turning back is a much harder choice mentally than anything else we do out there. Thanks for chiming in and best wishes to you!

Nancy, my 11th essential on any and all my hiking trips is …Summiting is Optional; getting down safe to the trailhead is Mandatory.

Thanks, Tom! And kudos to you for helping others out there. I have no doubt that a lot of incidents are curtailed by kind hikers like you (which, in turn means I don’t get called out at midnight, so thank you for that)! 😊

Tim, thank you for your thoughts and especially for sharing your experience and knowledge! Rain gear often amounts to 3 items in my pack (jacket, skirt or pants, and my favorite of all, my umbrella!). I’m so glad your story had a good outcome and that you guys did the right thing. Sometimes making the decision to turn back is the only reasonable one, but it often takes more strength mentally than continuing and facing more risk deeper in the backcountry. I always appreciate your perspective, so thanks for chiming in! 😊