What was Krakauer's planned method for ascending Devil's Thumb in Alaska?

What was Krakauer's planned method for ascending Devil's Thumb in Alaska?

• A. Hitchhiked to Alaska
• B. Drove to Alaska, then abandoned car and got a ride with tree planters to Thomas Bay
• C. Wanted to climb Devil's Thumb, ski inland and then ascend
• D. Tied sleeping bag to the end and waved it

Answer: (C)

The plan being tested is Krakauer’s two-stage approach to Devil’s Thumb: he intended to ski inland to reach a suitable base and then continue the ascent on foot, combining backcountry skiing with technical climbing. This reflects how climbers in Alaska often move quickly over long, snow-covered terrain before switching to mountaineering for the actual ascent. The other options describe travel methods or an unrelated tactic that don’t address how he planned to approach and climb the peak.

The plan being tested is Krakauer’s two-stage approach to Devil’s Thumb: he intended to ski inland to reach a suitable base and then continue the ascent on foot, combining backcountry skiing with technical climbing. This reflects how climbers in Alaska often move quickly over long, snow-covered terrain before switching to mountaineering for the actual ascent. The other options describe travel methods or an unrelated tactic that don’t address how he planned to approach and climb the peak.