Helicpoter operations at night are even more risky, even with night vision gear for the pilot. I'm a bit surprised that the authorities would opt for that procedure, rather than sending in a ground team? Or, assuming no one was injured and conditions weren't severe, why not drop them a sleeping bag and tent from the helo, and have them sit tight until morning?

I've only been hiking once in Maryland, a short hike while visiting a friend years ago, so I certainly don't know anything about the area. But my general impression was that there aren't many places that would be too far from a road or trail. Perhaps one of our members fron that area will fill us in with more details.