This sounds kind of like the streetlight effect. (Not to be confused with gaslighting in today's politics.)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streetlight_effect
But I don't blame anybody. There were many other areas to search in the beginning. I also don't want to become the next Bill Ewasko, and there are still some easier areas left to search. The question of ping accuracy really complicated things. Without the 10.6-mile statement by Verizon, it's likely this area would have at least been searched by helicopter, if not also some ground searches. I would imagine that the ridges are easier than the ravines.
I noticed that Ewasko listed Johnny Lang Canyon on his itinerary. From Tom's typed version it appears that Ewasko thought Crown Prince Lookout and Lucky Boy Vista were also accessed from the Quail Springs Picnic Area. Another indication that there might have been something happening mentally before beginning his hike.
I came across a nice web site while looking up those places:
https://www.hikespeak.com/trails/crown- ... shua-tree/
https://www.hikespeak.com/trails/lucky- ... shua-tree/
Wasn't able to find a partner for tomorrow, so I'll just do something else.