Southeast Ridge: May 10, 1996 - 27,600 Feet Summary and Analysis

Krakauer covers some of the technical aspects of the final summit push. There is enough oxygen to last until about 4:00 or 5:00 p.m., after which the danger of contracting HAPE or HACE increases rapidly, along with the risks of frostbite and hypothermia. Hall's intention is to put up fixed ropes to help his climbers reach the top safely. Because no expeditions have been to the summit yet this season, Hall must arrange to put up many of these lines over the hardest parts. The plan had been to send two Sherpas from each expedition ahead of the teams to place the lines, but for some reason this has not happened. Krakauer writes that there are conflicting reasons given for this failure, and nothing is known for certain. What is important, he says, is...