Rocks spelling “SOS” saved the life of a 56-year-old traveling nurse that became lost in Sequoia National Park for multiple days.

On October 25, Mary Joanna Gomez was reported missing by family after missing her work shift in California’s Bay Area. The last contact she had was on October 24, when she messaged a family member while visiting Kings Canyon National Park, stating her intention of heading to Sequoia next. Her vehicle was found in Sequoia National Park on October 26, helping search crews pin down a more accurate estimation of her location.

Though search crews had an idea of where Gomez was, they weren’t finding many additional clues.

Thankfully, a National Guard aircraft spotted the letters “SOS” spelled out in rocks from above while conducting a flyover. They notified someone on the ground that was able to locate Gomez 3.5 miles away from her vehicle through rough, dangerous terrain. She was thirsty, cold, and hungry when discovered, but still in good health.

Though not a search and rescue that took place in Colorado, this incident with a happy ending serves as a good reminder to always take steps that prevent getting lost. Like Gomez, you should always let someone know where you’re headed when you’re out exploring, though she should have been more specific in regard to what trail she would be on and her planned return. It’s also always important to stay on trail, as failing to do this is a key reason that most become lost in the first place.