A Victoria resident was found alive after four days of being lost in the rugged Colorado backcountry during a spiritual retreat.
The retreat, organized by the Animas Valley Institute, led participants into the wilderness near the Lone Cone trailhead outside Norwood, Colorado, for solo journeys meant to enhance their spiritual connection with nature.
However, the expedition took a turn when 53-year-old Gina Chase of Victoria did not return to camp as expected on August 14th.
Chase was last seen around 11 a.m. on August 14th as she embarked on her solo hike from the Lone Cone trailhead.
The retreat, which promotes fasting and disconnection from modern conveniences like cellphones to deepen participants’ spiritual experiences, typically involves a buddy system to ensure each participant’s safe return.
When Chase failed to check in with her designated buddy on August 15th, concern quickly escalated.
The camp guides initiated a search but were unable to locate her. The San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office was contacted later that day, initiating a more extensive search effort.
Authorities were deeply concerned about the group’s preparedness for such an isolated and demanding environment.
San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Lane Masters noted that both the participants and their guides were “grossly unprepared” for the rigours of the Colorado backcountry, especially given the unpredictable weather and the physical challenges posed by the terrain.
Despite these challenges, Chase managed to survive by filtering water and constructing a makeshift shelter to protect herself from the monsoonal rains.
Her daypack, which contained an emergency blanket, a whistle, a power bar, and some water, proved crucial for her survival.
Rescuers found her within the search area on August 17th, exhausted but alive.
The Animas Valley Institute, which has organized such outings since 1980, expressed relief and gratitude upon hearing the news of Chase’s rescue.
In a statement released on social media, the organization said, “The Institute is immensely grateful to the team of professionals and volunteers who led the search. Their commitment and dedication have been exemplary.”
The group added, “The safety of our participants remains our highest priority. We have been in direct contact with the participant’s family during this immensely difficult time and remain committed to supporting them over the coming days and weeks.”
While the Animas Valley Institute celebrates the positive outcome, the incident raises important questions about the preparedness and safety protocols of such retreats.
