Yes, it's amazing that they waited until just before sunset to realize they were in deep doo doo and call for the cavalry. They had to know they were in trouble when the snow started earlier in the day and they lost visibility. I too am amazed that two 50+ year old's would be doing a hike on the 2nd highest peak in New England in winter without a GPS, or PLB. (I must admit to having done similar things as a youth.. but, these folks should have had a little seasoning?)

I have to assume they had a decent map and compass. If so, they should have been able to know when they lost the trail, if they were following along as they hiked. It's pretty important to keep yourself found... it makes it easier to describe where you got lost <img src="/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />