Woman who trekked 26 miles in snowy Grand Canyon to save family tells ordeal

2LT (Join to see) I will preface this by saying I am glad that nobody was seriously injured or died as a result of this misadventure. She should have stayed with the vehicle. She didn't know where they were. She didn't have a good bearing. She had experience with being in the outdoors, they should have build a fire and stayed warm. Rule number one when trying to effect rescue is don't become a victim which she did. Planning a trip, maybe finding out about closures would be a good idea beforehand, especially in the winter months. I heard people talking about how brave she was to do what she did. I disagree. They were stupid. They endangered their lives and the lives of their child by simply not being prepared. I like to go hiking and backpacking. When I go, I always make sure that someone knows where I am planning to go, and when I should be back. That way, if nobody hears from me within a reasonable time after I should be back, they can notify someone that I screwed up. I carry a GPS and a compass. I also wear an analog watch. That way I can if nothing else at least find north. I know that in a stranded vehicle situation, it is best to stay with the vehicle, unless it is unsafe to do so. I am not what I would call an experienced outdoorsman, but I know these simple common sense rules. This woman is an experienced outdoorswoman, and skipped all of the basic rules of survival. I do agree with you fully, I would hate getting stuck in the snow. I loved living in Colorado, but right now I really appreciate the Florida warmth.