"Heck, in the PNW the Forest Service roads to the trail heads require a degree of caution and preparation..."

*laughing* Oh, yeah! I was just starting a day hike out of the Government Camp (OR) area and came across two women who hadn't even gotten 300 yards from their car before they were both hurt enough to turn back.

I just don't understand why so many hikers don't carry firemaking materials as a matter of routine. "I don't smoke" is NOT a good answer.

Even if he had a PLB, this guy probably would have left it in his car with the GPS that he did have.

Baxter ain't Ohio, for sure.

Sue
If you survive your bad judgment, it gives you experience; experience may even produce good judgment... eventually.