RENO, Nev. The couple, both military veterans, set out in their Suzuki Samurai to explore the ghost towns they love in Nevada. It might be three in the morning, but we come back. However, their adventure took a turn when their vehicle became stuck in the playa desert southwest of Gerlach.
Accompanied by their dog Greta, the couple huddled together with a thin blanket, using the car's heater sporadically throughout the night. On Friday morning, thick fog prevented them from seeing any landmarks, complicating their efforts to hike out.
Once the fog lifted, Boni attempted to call for help from a ridge, but her phone died after unsuccessful attempts to reach and SOS services. The Bernals spent another night in the desert, enduring cold winds and a winter storm. They sought shelter against a sand dune and a prickly bush. Meanwhile, a friend who knew of their day trip grew concerned when they didn't return, prompting police to issue an alert.
By Saturday morning, the couple reached a pottery shop near Gerlach, where the owner drove them to town to contact their family. In total, they walked approximately 25 miles from their car to find help. The Suzuki remains stuck in the mud on the playa, but the Bernals and their dog are safely home. Despite their harrowing experience, they plan to continue exploring Nevada's backcountry, though they vow to avoid the playa in the future.
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