Source says they were indeed facing death, if being unable to move presages death in zero degree chill. Article also says they made contact via their cell phone.
OK- ya’ gots to do, what ya’ gots to do. I’m very close to hiking the PCT (right now) or landing some work in Alaska, or Canada. I guarantee that I will be prepared either way. Note to self: it’s January.
I guess the big debate is whether the hikers should be charged for their rescue due to their plight, owing to their planning, or lack there of, and their decisions, good or bad.