That is a remote area.
he knew they were descending to Bench Lake. Perhaps he caught a glimpse of ANOTHER lake, and went there. I'd look there first.
He's been out over 24 hours. Odds are this was a day hike from a base camp (probably Bench). If so, he doesn't have his camping gear.
His best bet is to light a fire during daytime....always abnormal. Don't know if he has the means, or the knowledge to do so.
Does he know enough to go to water, then stop, stop, stop?
I am often amazed at how close they find these people to their last known position. If he heads east, he hits the JMT/PCT, and a ton of people. Does he know which way is east?
You just hope for the best, and feel for the Dad.
