I think amateur radio is even more important in mountainous areas. How is your cell coverage? With repeaters, you can communicate in an emergency even when there is no cell coverage.

I don't use my HT often, but take it with me on every trip, no matter where I go. If bad things happen, I only need to get a msg to another HAM and I trust the msg will be relayed. From anywhere, to anywhere, any time of day.