I've lived around coyotes all of my life here in the Southwestern US, and they are generally shy and not aggressive toward humans at all. This is a rare anomaly, and very tragic indeed. What a horrible thing...

I completely agree that hiking alone can be dangerous and should be avoided. I also agree that being armed in any 'wilderness' area is a good idea, as there are some rather large beasts that may well attack you. Recently here in Texas we've had some folks attacked [and killed] by mountain lions, which also are usually very shy around humans.

Virtually any death is a tragedy, and this young woman seemed very talented and full of life. It's a shame.

Fire, the wheel, and the I IV V -- foundations of civilization.