Woman, 53, Found Alive 4 Days After She Disappeared During 'Spiritual' Colo. Hike Without a Phone

Mar. 15, 2025

San Miguel County Sheriff/Facebook

A woman who went missing for four days while hiking solo in the Colorado backcountry has been found alive, authorities said.

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Chase’s “daypack,” which carried an emergency blanket, a whistle, a power bar, and some water, also disappeared, said authorities.

“Obviously this is the outcome we were all hoping for and we couldn’t be happier for Ms. Chase and her family,” said San Miguel County Sheriff Bill Masters in the news update following the discovery of the missing hiker. “The ultimate success of this mission is a real testament to our responders’ tenacity, perseverance, and dedication.”

The Animas Valley Institute of Durango oversees the program that Chase and the group were part of, said the sheriff’s office. Based in Durango, Colo., the organization, per itswebsite, “offers a rich assortment of journeys into the mysteries of nature and psyche, including Soulcraft intensives, contemporary vision fasts, and training programs for nature-based soul guides.”

The organization added that it provides “multi-day, experiential explorations into wild landscapes and into the wilds of soul with the goal of discovering the meaning and destiny at the heart of each life.”

PEOPLE has reached out to the Animas Valley Institute for comment.

“The Institute is immensely grateful to the team of professionals and volunteers who led the search,” Animas wrote. “Their commitment and dedication have been exemplary.”

“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,” the organization added.

source: people.com