If we are going off purely what is known.
Nothing points to abduction.
Nothing points to meeting up with a buddy for a weekend of party and drinks.
Nothing points to starting up a new life in Canada.
So what does that leave ...
Maura's father believed she came to the white mountains to do personal harm to herself. (once his daughter's case became public, strategically wise, he changed his tune to keep pressure on police).
Maura was an avid hiker and lover of the white mountains in particular, who loved the book Not Without Peril which is all about people who entered the white mountains ill-prepared yet came up with creative ways to at least attempt to survive. I will go out on a limb and say Maura really enjoyed those stories and was not horrified by the stories end results.
Maura tied up loose ends before she left.
Maura left a personal note on top of her packed up boxes on top of her bed.
Maura headed right for the white mountains.
Maura at least packed Tylenol PM with her as well.
Mixing Tylenol PM with alcohol is a no-no.
Maura did not take clothes or valuables when she ditched her car, just alcohol and a backpack.
The dog search that led 100-feet from her car WAS NOT A SURPRISE TO THE INVESTIGATING OFFICERS. They knew it had been days later and the dog that was used wasn't going to be very effective (even before they started the scent trail).
At best, the dog search gave them a starting point, because the dog did pick up her scent from her car going EAST on foot. That is all they officially got out of the search, everything else is complete speculation.
Everyone keeps bringing up this mixed drinks theory and that Maura was in a "party" mood.
Keep in mind, Maura likely was wanting to stay the night somewhere (hence the opportunity to make her favorite drinks) it was her wreck that changed her plans. Maura grabbed what alcohol was left and dashed away from the accident site.
Wishful thinking would have Maura starting a new life somewhere and living happily ever after.
Unfortunately, we live in reality.