The quest to climb the highest peak on each continent has captivated mountaineers for decades. Known as the Seven Summits, these mountains represent the ultimate test of skill, endurance, and sheer determination. From the icy slopes of Antarctica to the towering heights of Asia, each summit presents unique challenges and breathtaking rewards.
But what exactly are the Seven Summits? While the concept seems straightforward, the definition is surprisingly complex. Geographers and climbers often disagree on continental boundaries, especially when it comes to Europe/Asia and Australia/Oceania. This leads to ongoing debates about which mountains truly qualify.
This article dives into the world of the seven highest peaks in the world, exploring their individual characteristics, climbing history, and the controversies that surround their very definition. Prepare to be inspired by the majesty of these natural wonders and the incredible feats of those who dare to conquer them.
The Continental Divides: Defining the Seven Summits
Defining the “seven summits” isn’t as straightforward as you might think, largely because of debates about continental boundaries. For example, are Europe and Asia separate continents, or are they actually a single landmass called Eurasia? This affects which mountain counts as the tallest in Europe. The most commonly accepted choice is Mount Elbrus in Russia. However, the famed climber Reinhold Messner made a case for Mont Blanc.
There’s also debate about what counts as the continent of Australia, versus the larger region of Oceania. This determines the selection for the Australian summit. The “Bass List” considers Mount Kosciuszko in Australia as the highest. The “Messner List” opts for Carstensz Pyramid in Papua, Indonesia.
Kosciuszko is a relatively easy climb. Carstensz Pyramid is significantly more challenging.
Asia: Mount Everest
Of course, the highest of the high is Mount Everest, which straddles the border of Nepal and Tibet (China) in the Himalayas. It rises to a staggering 29,035 feet (8,850 meters) above sea level.
The first successful ascent of Everest took place in 1953, when Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the summit. Today, Everest remains a popular mountaineering destination — though scaling it is not for the faint of heart. Climbers face extreme challenges, including brutal weather, treacherous terrain, and the constant threat of altitude sickness.
The most common routes are the Southeast Ridge from Nepal and the Northeast Ridge from Tibet. Even if you’re not up for summiting the world’s tallest peak, you can still experience its grandeur by trekking to Everest Base Camp, a popular alternative for non-climbers.
South America: Mount Aconcagua
Let’s move on to the Americas. In the Andes Mountains of Argentina, you’ll find Mount Aconcagua. It towers to a height of 22,831 feet (6,959 meters).
The first recorded ascent of Aconcagua was in 1897 by Matthias Zurbriggen. But that doesn’t mean it’s a walk in the park.
Climbing Aconcagua presents several challenges. For one, the altitude is brutal. The wind and weather conditions can also be extremely difficult. There are a few different routes up the mountain, each with its own level of difficulty. The Normal Route is the most popular, but even that is pretty challenging. The Polish Glacier Traverse is considered more technically difficult.
North America: Denali
Here in North America, the highest peak is Denali, which sits in the Alaska Range, in the United States. It soars to 20,310 feet (or 6,190 meters) above sea level. (That’s the figure the USGS confirmed in 2015, by the way.)
The first documented ascent was in 1913, by a group known as the “Sourdough Expedition.” I can only imagine what they packed for lunch.
Even today, Denali is known as a tough climb. You’re talking extreme cold, wildly unpredictable weather, and a location so remote, you practically need to be dropped in by helicopter. It’s not for the faint of heart (or the poorly supplied).
Africa: Mount Kilimanjaro
Let’s travel from Asia to Tanzania, where Mount Kilimanjaro rises to a height of 19,340 feet (5,895 meters).
The first documented ascent was in 1889, accomplished by Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller.
Kilimanjaro is a popular destination for trekkers, thanks to its diverse climate zones and relatively accessible routes. For anyone interested in their first international climb, Kilimanjaro is a good place to start.
Europe: Mount Elbrus
If you’re looking for the highest peak in Europe, you’ll find it in the Caucasus Mountains of Russia. Mount Elbrus reaches 18,510 feet (that’s 5,642 meters) into the sky.
The first successful climb to the summit was in 1874, when a British expedition led by Peter Knubel made it to the top.
Today, Elbrus is known as a relatively accessible climb, with routes that are considered fairly straightforward. Even so, don’t underestimate the challenge. Its slopes are glaciated, and there are plenty of opportunities to get into trouble if you’re not prepared!
Antarctica: Vinson Massif
Let’s leave the other continents behind and head to the bottom of the world.
Vinson Massif sits in the Sentinel Range of Antarctica. It rises to 16,050 feet (4,892 meters). The first ascent took place in 1966. It was achieved by an American expedition.
Climbing Vinson Massif presents challenges unlike those of any other mountain on this list. The extreme cold, the remoteness, and the sheer logistical difficulties of getting to and climbing in Antarctica require specialized equipment and experienced guides. You’re not just battling altitude; you’re battling the most hostile environment on Earth.
Australia/Oceania: Jaya Peak (Mount Carstensz) vs. Mount Kosciuszko
When it comes to the “Seven Summits,” the highest peaks on each continent, there’s debate about which peak represents Australia/Oceania. The two main contenders are Jaya Peak (Mount Carstensz) and Mount Kosciuszko.
Jaya Peak (Mount Carstensz)
Located in Papua, Indonesia, Jaya Peak (also known as Carstensz Pyramid) soars to 16,024 feet (4,884 meters). This peak was first summited in 1962 by Heinrich Harrer. However, reaching the summit requires technical rock climbing skills, as well as trekking through dense jungle just to get to the base.
Mount Kosciuszko
Mount Kosciuszko, located in Australia, stands at a more modest 7,310 feet (2,228 meters). Paul Strzelecki first climbed it in 1840. Unlike Jaya Peak, Mount Kosciuszko is a relatively easy hike, making it a very popular tourist destination.
The Debate
The debate hinges on geographical definitions. Some argue that, because Indonesia is part of Asia, Jaya Peak doesn’t qualify as the highest peak in the Australia/Oceania region, making Mount Kosciuszko the rightful contender. Others argue that the island of Papua is part of the Oceania region, therefore Jaya Peak is the highest in that region.
In Closing
The Seven Summits are more than just a mountaineering challenge. They’re a symbol of human ambition and the drive to explore the limits of what’s possible. As of 2023, only around 370 people have completed ascents of all Seven Summits. That’s a tiny fraction of the world’s population!
There’s some debate about what, exactly, counts as one of the Seven Summits. Some climbers argue about which mountain range is the real one, and these disagreements can affect the whole climbing community.
But no matter which list of mountains you use, the Seven Summits are an incredible opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes on Earth. For those who choose to pursue them, they represent once-in-a-lifetime adventures that will never be forgotten.