The story of a woman rescued this month after nine days in a remote area of Arizona is a good reminder to be cautious when traveling in the state's less-visited areas.
Ann Rodgers, 72, a Tucson artist and horse trainer, told the Phoenix New Times' Ray Stern that she survived her time on White Mountain Apache Tribe land northeast of Phoenix by eating plants, catching and cooking a turtle, and building shelters.
Rodgers' ordeal, as recounted to Stern, began when she was on her way to Cave Creek to visit friends. She somehow "got off track" and ended up on U.S. Route 60, headed northeast through Salt River Canyon and toward Show Low. The lesson here: Always have a clear idea of your route before you start a trip, and take a road map in case you get lost, since some areas don't have smartphone data coverage. And, of course, let someone know where you're going and when you plan to be back.
Rodgers eventually found herself on a dirt road off the highway. She managed to make contact with two people but then lost her cellphone signal and ran out of gas. She stayed at the car for two days, as temperatures dropped below freezing. She had two gallons of water, which is good — it's more than most people bring on car trips. But when her supply ran low, she hiked to a ridge and spotted running water nearby. It turned out to be Canyon Creek, near the western edge of the tribe's land.
For the next week or so, Rodgers survived mostly on edible plants, with which she was familiar through her knowledge of the work of herbalist Charles Kane. That's important: If you find yourself stranded and hungry, don't go eating wild flora unless you're positive it won't make you sick.
Rodgers' ordeal ended April 9 when she was spotted by a Department of Public Safety helicopter. Despite slightly suffering from exposure, she said, she was OK physically. Her entire story is worth a read.
Arizona is a big place, and much of our state is sparsely populated and rarely visited. It's part of what makes it such a unique and special place, but it also can be dangerous if you're not prepared. Stay safe out there, people!
For more survival guidance, pick up a copy of our Arizona Highways Hiking Guide, which includes several tips for staying safe in the wild — along with 52 excellent Arizona hikes, one for each week of the year.