Looking for a missing hiker when there is only an indefinite, vague area in which they were last seen is extremely challenging, since you automatically must cover many more miles. Interestingly, none of the reports mention any use of aerial resources, although it is hard to believe that none would have been used.

Hiker on a high point, a deployed mylar blanket, possibly even a fire would have made her rescue rather routine by a plane or helo.

Weather is described as rainy, which makes disorientation easy. She had a compass, but was not a competent user. She had left her Spot device in her last motel room. There is no mention of a map in her possession - that alone should have been enough for her to find the trail.

Sad, sad story. Do not rely too much on your cellphone....