When did Zolotaryov first meet members of the Dyatlov expedition?

[RMK]

Happy New Year, everyone!

Speaking of which...Rakitin's book--if I understand its text correctly--claims that Zolotaryov first became acquainted with Dyatlov and Kolevatov at New Year's, that is, almost a month before the start of the fateful Dyatlov expedition.  Is there a known and reliable source for that fact?

For that matter...how much do we know from reliable sources about how Zolotaryov came to be involved with hiking expeditions organized by UPI students in the first place?

[sarapuk]

Happy New Year, everyone!

Speaking of which...Rakitin's book--if I understand its text correctly--claims that Zolotaryov first became acquainted with Dyatlov and Kolevatov at New Year's, that is, almost a month before the start of the fateful Dyatlov expedition.  Is there a known and reliable source for that fact?

For that matter...how much do we know from reliable sources about how Zolotaryov came to be involved with hiking expeditions organized by UPI students in the first place?

Well 'The Dyatlov Pass.com' website seems to be the most comprehensive in the World. And there is plenty in this 'Forum' to dig up.