[paulat]

I really have to wonder why that area was not searched the first day given that they knew the family was roughly in that area.

Nobody is reported as a "missing person" after one day. By the time people started to worry (4 or 5 days), the search was underway. Apparently, they didn't make it a big deal to "check-in" with family. I know when I travel, I certaintly have never done that. It was only after a couple of days that it started to get noticed.

[pandoraou812]

When you are traveling somewhere you aren't familiar with it is a good idea to have maps, food, water, extra clothes and blankets and to have flares. If nothing else a cd or a mirror can be used to flash for help. It is also a good idea to keep in touch with your family or friends and give them an idea of where you are at least once a day. My husband always laughed at me for calling the older sons to say goodnight and see if they were partying. Now he knows I am right to call and check in.