Ellsworth Mountains

The Ellsworth Mountains are the highest mountain range in Antarctica, located in Western Antarctica and first sighted by explorer Lincoln Ellsworth in 1935. The range is the continent’s principal alpine massif and includes its highest summit.

The range’s northern section, the Sentinel Range, contains the continent’s major peaks and glaciated ridges while the southern Heritage Range has lower peaks and broad glaciers. Terrain includes steep rock faces, ice-filled valleys and long outlet glaciers; climbing and scientific expeditions focus on high-altitude mountaineering and glaciology.

Lincoln Ellsworth’s 1935 flights first brought the range to global attention; subsequent aerial mapping and ground surveys by 20th century Antarctic programs refined its topography and names. Scientific research stations and temporary camps have supported geological and glaciological studies rather than permanent settlement.

Geographically the mountains sit in Ellsworth Land, roughly between the Antarctic Peninsula and the Ronne Ice Shelf, oriented primarily north-south and rising from the ice plateau into sharp alpine relief. There are no nearby towns; access is by ski-equipped aircraft and long overland or flight support from Antarctic research logistics hubs.

• Mount Vinson: Contains Mount Vinson, the highest mountain in Antarctica at 4,892 metres.
• Visiting season: Best visited during the austral summer - roughly November to January - when weather windows for flights and climbs are most likely.

What to See #

• Sentinel Range: Subdivision of the range that contains Antarctica's highest peak, Mount Vinson (4,892 m), and the highest concentration of major summits in the Ellsworth Mountains.
• Heritage Range: Southern part of the Ellsworth Mountains with lower ridges and glaciers that contrast with the higher Sentinel peaks.