What was the original name given to Denali by the native Alaskans?
- Denali
- Mount McKinley
- The Great One
- Denali’s Wife
Correct Answer: Denali
Correct Answer Explanation: The native Alaskans referred to Denali as “Denali,” which translates to “The Great One.” This name was later adopted by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names in 2015.
What year did the devastating earthquake occur that significantly altered the Northeast Ridge of Denali?
- 1910
- 1911
- 1912
- 1913
Correct Answer: 1912
Correct Answer Explanation: The 1912 earthquake shattered the Northeast Ridge, making the ascent more dangerous. This seismic event significantly impacted the terrain, forcing the team to navigate a chaotic landscape of ice blocks and shifting snow.
Which glacier provided the only practical route to the summit of Denali?
- The Muldrow Glacier
- The Kahiltna Glacier
- The Ruth Glacier
- The Peters Glacier
Correct Answer: The Muldrow Glacier
Correct Answer Explanation: The Muldrow Glacier proved to be the most accessible route to the summit, offering a challenging yet feasible path for the team. It was discovered by the “sourdough” expedition of 1910, marking a pivotal moment in Denali’s ascent history.
What was the name of the experienced guide who played a crucial role in the expedition?
- Walter Harper
- Harry P. Karstens
- Archdeacon Hudson Stuck
- Robert Tatum
Correct Answer: Harry P. Karstens
Correct Answer Explanation: Harry P. Karstens was an experienced guide who provided valuable knowledge and expertise to the team, navigating them through the treacherous terrain. His contributions proved vital to the expedition’s success.
What was the team’s highest camp elevation during the ascent?
- 14,000 feet
- 16,000 feet
- 18,000 feet
- 20,000 feet
Correct Answer: 18,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The team’s final camp was established at an elevation of 18,000 feet, marking the highest camp ever established in North America at the time. This high-altitude camp showcased their resilience and determination in facing the challenges of thin air and extreme weather conditions.
What type of stove did the team use for cooking and heating?
- Coleman stove
- Primus stove
- Kerosene stove
- Wood-burning stove
Correct Answer: Primus stove
Correct Answer Explanation: The primus stove was a crucial tool for the expedition, providing warmth and the means to cook meals. However, it faced a near-disastrous malfunction when a wire became lodged in the burner hole, highlighting the potential dangers and challenges associated with using such equipment in harsh environments.
What was the boiling point of water at the summit of Denali?
- 180° F
- 190° F
- 174.9° F
- 160° F
Correct Answer: 174.9° F
Correct Answer Explanation: At the summit of Denali, the boiling point of water is significantly lower due to the reduced atmospheric pressure. This effect was noticeable during the expedition, as it took one hour to boil rice due to the decreased heat transfer.
What was the highest temperature recorded by the team during the expedition?
- 50 degrees Fahrenheit
- 40 degrees Fahrenheit
- 30 degrees Fahrenheit
- 20 degrees Fahrenheit
Correct Answer: 50 degrees Fahrenheit
Correct Answer Explanation: Despite the extreme altitude, the team experienced a surprising range of temperatures. The highest temperature recorded was 50 degrees Fahrenheit, highlighting the unexpected variations in weather patterns that could occur even at high altitudes.
What was the name of the Alaskan interpreter and dog driver who accompanied the team?
- Harry P. Karstens
- Archdeacon Hudson Stuck
- Walter Harper
- Robert Tatum
Correct Answer: Walter Harper
Correct Answer Explanation: Walter Harper, a half-breed Alaskan interpreter and dog driver, played a vital role in the expedition. His strength, endurance, and knowledge of the Alaskan terrain were invaluable to the team’s success.
What was the name of the American prospector who named the mountain “Mount McKinley” in 1896?
- William Dickey
- Robert Tatum
- Hudson Stuck
- Harry P. Karstens
Correct Answer: William Dickey
Correct Answer Explanation: William A. Dickey, an American prospector, named the mountain “Mount McKinley” in 1896. This name was used for over a century until it was officially changed back to “Denali” in 2015.
What type of equipment did the team use to navigate the treacherous ice and snow?
- Ice axes
- Climbing-irons
- Safety ropes
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: The team relied on specialized equipment, including ice axes, climbing-irons, and safety ropes, to traverse the challenging terrain. These tools were essential for navigating the crevasses, ice falls, and shifting snow.
What was the name of the expedition that planted a flagpole on the North Peak in 1910?
- The Lloyd Expedition
- The Stuck Expedition
- The Wickersham Expedition
- The Sourdough Expedition
Correct Answer: The Lloyd Expedition
Correct Answer Explanation: The Lloyd Expedition, led by Frederick Cook in 1910, was the first to successfully reach the North Peak of Denali. They planted a flagpole on the summit, leaving a marker for future expeditions.
Which peak of Denali is higher?
- North Peak
- South Peak
Correct Answer: South Peak
Correct Answer Explanation: The South Peak of Denali is higher than the North Peak. This distinction was identified during the Stuck Expedition, showcasing the complexity of the mountain’s terrain and the need for precise mapping.
Where did the team leave a record of their ascent?
- At the summit
- In a tin can at Parker Pass
- At their base camp
- In a log cabin
Correct Answer: In a tin can at Parker Pass
Correct Answer Explanation: The team left a record of their successful ascent in a tin can cached at Parker Pass. This act ensured that future expeditions would have a physical testament to their historic journey.
What was the name of the man who patiently cared for the dogs at base camp?
- Walter Harper
- Robert Tatum
- Johnny Fred
- Harry P. Karstens
Correct Answer: Johnny Fred
Correct Answer Explanation: Johnny Fred, a loyal member of the team, stayed behind at base camp to care for the dogs and maintain the camp while the rest of the team ascended Denali. His dedication and commitment to the expedition were crucial for their safe return.
What was the approximate distance covered by the team on their return journey?
- 20 miles
- 30 miles
- 40 miles
- 50 miles
Correct Answer: 50 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: The team’s return journey from the summit to base camp was approximately 50 miles, highlighting the immense distance they covered during the expedition.
What was the approximate weight of the supplies and equipment hauled by the team?
- 200 pounds
- 250 pounds
- 300 pounds
- 350 pounds
Correct Answer: 300 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: The team hauled nearly three hundred pounds of supplies and equipment, showcasing the physical demands of mountaineering and the essential provisions needed for a successful expedition.
What did the team discover near Glacier City on their descent?
- A group of native Alaskans
- A moose with two calves
- A large glacier
- A hidden cave
Correct Answer: A moose with two calves
Correct Answer Explanation: The team encountered a moose with two calves near Glacier City, highlighting the abundance of wildlife in the region. The sighting showcased the diverse ecosystem that surrounds Denali and the unexpected encounters that could occur during such expeditions.
What did the team find on the North Peak that confirmed the Lloyd Expedition’s previous ascent?
- A note
- A photograph
- A flagstaff
- A collection of stones
Correct Answer: A flagstaff
Correct Answer Explanation: The team discovered the flagstaff planted by the Lloyd Expedition of 1910 on the North Peak. This discovery provided physical evidence of their historic ascent and confirmed the accuracy of previous accounts.
What did the team encounter on their descent that illustrated the changing conditions of the glacier?
- A large crevasse
- A group of climbers
- A group of ice falls
- Several pools of water
Correct Answer: Several pools of water
Correct Answer Explanation: The team encountered several pools of water on their descent, indicating the shifting nature of the glaciers and their dynamic evolution over time. This observation highlighted the ever-changing nature of the Alaskan wilderness.
What is a pile of stones built as a marker or landmark called?
- A cairn
- A cornice
- A crevasse
- A sérac
Correct Answer: A cairn
Correct Answer Explanation: A cairn is a pile of stones used as a marker or landmark to guide travelers through challenging terrain. They played an important role in the expedition’s navigation, especially in the vast and unforgiving landscape of Denali.
What is a cornice of snow or ice overhanging a steep slope called?
- A cairn
- A cornice
- A crevasse
- A sérac
Correct Answer: A cornice
Correct Answer Explanation: A cornice is a shelf of snow or ice that overhangs a steep slope. They can be dangerous hazards for climbers, as they can collapse suddenly, creating a significant risk of falling.
What is a deep crack or fissure in a glacier called?
- A cairn
- A cornice
- A crevasse
- A sérac
Correct Answer: A crevasse
Correct Answer Explanation: A crevasse is a deep crack or fissure in a glacier, often hidden beneath a thin layer of snow. They can be extremely dangerous for climbers, as they can be difficult to detect and can lead to serious injuries or even death.
What is a block or tower of ice formed by the intersection of crevasses called?
- A cairn
- A cornice
- A crevasse
- A sérac
Correct Answer: A sérac
Correct Answer Explanation: A sérac is a block or tower of ice formed by the intersection of crevasses. They are often unstable and can collapse, posing a significant threat to climbers.
How many native Alaskan boys were part of the team?
- One
- Two
- Three
- Four
Correct Answer: Two
Correct Answer Explanation: Archdeacon Hudson Stuck’s team consisted of four men and two native Alaskan boys. The boys were vital to the success of the expedition, providing valuable knowledge of the terrain and its resources.
How many days did it take Stuck and his companions to reach the summit of Denali?
- 10
- 20
- 30
- 40
Correct Answer: 20
Correct Answer Explanation: It took Stuck and his companions 20 days to reach the summit of Denali. This arduous journey involved navigating treacherous terrain, enduring harsh weather conditions, and pushing their physical and mental limits.
What is the name of the mountain that is considered the highest peak in North America?
- Denali
- Mount McKinley
- Mount Whitney
- Mount Elbrus
Correct Answer: Denali
Correct Answer Explanation: Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, is the highest peak in North America. It is located in the Alaskan Range and is a challenging climb that attracts mountaineers from around the world.
How many miles was the base camp from the summit of Denali?
- 10
- 20
- 30
- 40
Correct Answer: 20
Correct Answer Explanation: The base camp was located about 20 miles from the summit of Denali. This distance was covered over several weeks, as the team carefully navigated the treacherous terrain and established camps at various elevations.
Who was the first person to attempt to climb Denali?
- Archdeacon Hudson Stuck
- Judge Wickersham
- Harry P. Karstens
- Walter Harper
Correct Answer: Judge Wickersham
Correct Answer Explanation: Judge Wickersham, a lawyer and politician, made the first recorded attempt to climb Denali in 1903. This early expedition set the stage for future attempts and ultimately paved the way for the successful ascent by Stuck’s team.
What type of barometer did the expedition use to measure atmospheric pressure?
- Aneroid Barometer
- Mercurial Barometer
- Digital Barometer
- GPS Barometer
Correct Answer: Aneroid Barometer
Correct Answer Explanation: The expedition used an aneroid barometer to measure atmospheric pressure, which is an essential tool for determining altitude. This device allowed them to monitor their progress as they ascended and provided valuable data for the expedition’s success.
What did the team encounter that caused a near-disastrous malfunction in their primus stove?
- A clogged burner
- A leak in the tank
- A malfunctioning pump
- A wire lodged in the burner hole
Correct Answer: A wire lodged in the burner hole
Correct Answer Explanation: A wire became lodged in the burner hole of their primus stove, causing a near-disastrous malfunction. This event highlighted the potential dangers of using equipment in harsh environments and the importance of meticulous maintenance and care.
What is the name of the temporary encampment set up at the foot of a mountain?
- Base camp
- Advance camp
- Summit camp
- High camp
Correct Answer: Base camp
Correct Answer Explanation: A base camp is a temporary encampment established at the foot of a mountain, serving as a starting point for expeditions. It provides shelter, supplies, and a base for the team to regroup and prepare for their ascent.
What was the name of the instrument used to determine altitude based on the temperature at which water boils?
- Aneroid Barometer
- Mercurial Barometer
- Boiling-Point Thermometer
- Digital Thermometer
Correct Answer: Boiling-Point Thermometer
Correct Answer Explanation: The expedition used a boiling-point thermometer to determine their altitude based on the temperature at which water boiled. This instrument proved to be a vital tool for navigating the mountain’s terrain and understanding the impact of altitude on the expedition’s progress.
What is the meaning of the word “sourdough,” which refers to the expedition that first discovered the key route to the summit?
- A person who is experienced in the Alaskan wilderness
- A type of bread that is baked in Alaska
- A group of mountaineers
- A type of expedition
Correct Answer: A person who is experienced in the Alaskan wilderness
Correct Answer Explanation: “Sourdough” refers to a person who is experienced in the Alaskan wilderness, often having lived and worked in the region for a significant period. The “sourdough” expedition of 1910, who first discovered the key route to the summit, showcased their knowledge and understanding of the Alaskan terrain.
What is the name of the glacier that provides the only practical route to the summit of Denali?
- The Muldrow Glacier
- The Kahiltna Glacier
- The Ruth Glacier
- The Peters Glacier
Correct Answer: The Muldrow Glacier
Correct Answer Explanation: The Muldrow Glacier is the only practical route to the summit of Denali. This glacier has been used by countless climbers, providing a challenging but feasible pathway to the highest point in North America.
What is the elevation of Denali?
- 20,000 feet
- 20,310 feet
- 20,700 feet
- 21,000 feet
Correct Answer: 20,700 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Denali, the highest peak in North America, is estimated to be 20,700 feet above sea level. This makes it a challenging climb that attracts mountaineers from around the world.
What is the difference in elevation between the base of Denali and the summit?
- 19,200 feet
- 19,500 feet
- 19,700 feet
- 19,900 feet
Correct Answer: 19,200 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The base of Denali is barely 1,500 feet above sea level, meaning that the difference in elevation between the base and the summit is approximately 19,200 feet. This significant change in elevation presents a major challenge for climbers, as they must acclimate to the thin air and reduced atmospheric pressure.
What is the name of the half-breed interpreter and dog driver who was essential to the expedition’s success?
- Harry P. Karstens
- Archdeacon Hudson Stuck
- Walter Harper
- Robert Tatum
Correct Answer: Walter Harper
Correct Answer Explanation: Walter Harper, a half-breed Alaskan interpreter and dog driver, played a vital role in the expedition’s success. His knowledge of the terrain, strength, and endurance were invaluable to the team, particularly in navigating the challenging conditions and providing essential communication with the native Alaskans.
What is the name of the expedition that first attempted to climb Denali in 1903?
- The Stuck Expedition
- The Wickersham Expedition
- The Lloyd Expedition
- The Sourdough Expedition
Correct Answer: The Wickersham Expedition
Correct Answer Explanation: Judge Wickersham’s 1903 expedition marked the first attempt to climb Denali. This early effort paved the way for future expeditions and demonstrated the challenge and allure of this iconic peak.
What was the name of the person who saved the expedition’s sugar ration while they were away on their climb?
- Johnny Fred
- Walter Harper
- Robert Tatum
- Harry P. Karstens
Correct Answer: Johnny Fred
Correct Answer Explanation: Johnny Fred, a loyal member of the team, stayed behind at base camp to care for the dogs and maintain the camp. He also carefully saved the expedition’s sugar ration, ensuring they had a vital source of energy upon their return.
What did the expedition find at the highest camp ever established in North America at the time?
- A note
- A photograph
- A flagstaff
- A collection of stones
Correct Answer: A flagstaff
Correct Answer Explanation: The Lloyd Expedition of 1910 planted a flagstaff on the North Peak, and the Stuck Expedition found this marker at the highest camp ever established in North America at the time. This discovery provided physical evidence of the Lloyd Expedition’s previous ascent and confirmed the accuracy of their account.
What is the name of the type of barometer that uses a sealed metal chamber to measure atmospheric pressure?
- Aneroid Barometer
- Mercurial Barometer
- Digital Barometer
- GPS Barometer
Correct Answer: Aneroid Barometer
Correct Answer Explanation: The expedition used an aneroid barometer to measure atmospheric pressure. This type of barometer relies on a sealed metal chamber that expands or contracts in response to changes in atmospheric pressure.
What is the name of the type of barometer that uses a column of mercury to measure atmospheric pressure?
- Aneroid Barometer
- Mercurial Barometer
- Digital Barometer
- GPS Barometer
Correct Answer: Mercurial Barometer
Correct Answer Explanation: A mercurial barometer uses a column of mercury to measure atmospheric pressure. This type of barometer has been used for centuries and provides a highly accurate measurement of pressure.
What is the name of the person who played a crucial role in the expedition, providing valuable knowledge and expertise in navigating the treacherous terrain?
- Walter Harper
- Archdeacon Hudson Stuck
- Harry P. Karstens
- Robert Tatum
Correct Answer: Harry P. Karstens
Correct Answer Explanation: Harry P. Karstens, an experienced guide, played a vital role in the expedition, providing invaluable knowledge and expertise in navigating the treacherous terrain. His contributions were essential to the team’s success.
How many days did Stuck and his companions spend cutting steps up the Northeast Ridge of Denali?
- 10
- 15
- 20
- 25
Correct Answer: 20
Correct Answer Explanation: It took Stuck and his companions three weeks, or approximately 20 days, to cut steps up the Northeast Ridge of Denali. This arduous task involved navigating a chaotic landscape of ice blocks and shifting snow, requiring immense effort and resilience.
What is the name of the mountain range where Denali is located?
- The Rocky Mountains
- The Appalachian Mountains
- The Alaskan Range
- The Sierra Nevada
Correct Answer: The Alaskan Range
Correct Answer Explanation: Denali, the highest peak in North America, is located in the Alaskan Range, a rugged and majestic mountain chain that stretches across south-central Alaska.
What is the name of the person who first attempted to climb Denali in 1903?
- Archdeacon Hudson Stuck
- Judge Wickersham
- Harry P. Karstens
- Walter Harper
Correct Answer: Judge Wickersham
Correct Answer Explanation: Judge Wickersham, a lawyer and politician, made the first recorded attempt to climb Denali in 1903. This early expedition set the stage for future attempts and ultimately paved the way for the successful ascent by Stuck’s team.
What is the meaning of the word “sourdough,” which refers to the expedition that first discovered the key route to the summit?
- A person who is experienced in the Alaskan wilderness
- A type of bread that is baked in Alaska
- A group of mountaineers
- A type of expedition
Correct Answer: A person who is experienced in the Alaskan wilderness
Correct Answer Explanation: The term “sourdough” refers to a person who is experienced in the Alaskan wilderness, often having lived and worked in the region for a significant period. The “sourdough” expedition of 1910, who first discovered the key route to the summit, showcased their knowledge and understanding of the Alaskan terrain.
What was the name of the expedition that planted a flagpole on the North Peak in 1910?
- The Lloyd Expedition
- The Stuck Expedition
- The Wickersham Expedition
- The Sourdough Expedition
Correct Answer: The Lloyd Expedition
Correct Answer Explanation: The Lloyd Expedition, led by Frederick Cook in 1910, was the first to successfully reach the North Peak of Denali. They planted a flagpole on the summit, leaving a marker for future expeditions.