It isn't like here in western WA, the climate is more desert-like, and the major trees are stunted pines and mesquite. The elevation is fairly high, five or six thousand feet, I think. It would be far easier to see a signal flash or smoke there than it would be here, despite the rough terrain.

Here's more info: UPDATED: Gila hikers recount blizzard survival

It sounds like they did a good job, considering two feet of snow and -15F temps. Someone getting sick really does change the equation.

Sue