It took us 16 hours to ascend. And yes, the pack got dropped at the 1.9 mile marker, where many backpackers leave their packs. We had DAY packs with water that I had filtered just before the switchbacks. I had what was left in mine, a 2.5 liter bladder that was inside the pack. I had filled her water as well. We spent 28 hours total, 35 hours awake straight.
I go with the belief that we don't leave people behind no matter what. I can't help you, and you can't help me if we are separated.
