Missing Hiker Found Alive 4 Days After Disappearing During Spiritual Quest

A Canadian woman on a spiritual quest in Colorado was found alive several days after she was reported missing. Gina Chase, 53, was part of a group organized by the Animas Valley Institute that went hiking in the backcountry without cell phones. During their time in the wilderness, the hikers were encouraged to fast to "maximize a spiritual experience with nature."

Last Wednesday (August 14), Chase left the group so she could go on a solo journey. She was reported missing on Thursday when her hiking buddy realized she had never returned and hadn't checked in.

After several days of searching, a rescue team located Chase near Lone Cone, Colorado. She was uninjured but was examined by medics as a precaution.

"Obviously, this is the outcome we were all hoping for, and we couldn't be happier for Ms. Chase and her family. The ultimate success of this mission is a real testament to our responders' tenacity, perseverance, and dedication," San Miguel County Sheriff Bill Masters said in a statement posted on Facebook.