The Seven Summits | Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

The Seven Summits —What Are They And Where Are They? Everything To Know : “You’ll start planning for the next mountain hiking excursion as soon as you summit the first one. Once you’ve experienced the sense of satisfaction that comes with reaching a summit, you’ll never stop seeking it out! As a result, the Seven Summits are on the bucket lists of a lot of people. What are the Seven Summits, though?”

If you enjoy hiking or are just a general nature lover, you probably have a list of experiences that are on your “bucket list.” The ‘Seven Summits’ are a top priority for many people. The Seven Summits and what it takes to hike these enigmatic and magnificent beauties may be on your mind.

The seven summits require extensive planning and time to reach. All climbers must first take a close look at these list of mountains that lie ahead of them and then prepare a plan from there, regardless of the order in which they attempt the seven summits. True mountaineers aim to climb Messner’s version of the seven summits, despite the fact that there are two widely accepted versions (the Bass version and the Messner version).

The Seven Summits are made up of the tallest mountain peaks on each continent. Most of these excursions necessitate hiring a qualified guide, having more experience, and carrying specialized gear in order to reach the summit safely. Continue reading this guide if you want to find out more about the Seven Summits and how to experience their breathtaking beauty.

THE FEELING OF BEING AT THE TOP OF THE SEVEN SUMMITS

Nothing compares to the rush you experience when you reach the top of a majestic mountain and stand on its snow-covered peak, miles above the rest of the world. You take a quick breath of the thin, crisp mountain air, your tired muscles trembling with excitement and exhaustion.

You experience a sense of freedom that makes you feel as though you are the only person on Earth for a brief period of time. It is highly advised that you start training if you have never experienced that feeling, so that you can start crossing things off your bucket list.

THE SEVEN SUMMITS OF THE WORLD

The “Seven Summits” are a group of seven mountain peaks, as was previously mentioned. The tallest mountain peaks on every continent make up this list. The experiences of hikers from all over the world have been combined to create this list. The seven summits of the world includes:

Everest (Asia, 8,848m)
Aconcagua (South America, 6,961m)
Denali (North America, 6,144m)
Kilimanjaro (Africa, 5,885m)
Elbrus (Europe, 4,741m)
Mount Vinson (Antarctica, 4,892m)
Carstensz Pyramid or Puncak Jaya (Australia, 4,884m)

Famous mountaineer Reinhold Messner has set numerous records throughout his life, in addition to compiling the definitive list of the seven summits. He was the first person to ascend Everest without additional oxygen, a feat that was formerly considered unachievable. Additionally, he was the first person to ascend Everest alone. Everest, though, was just the start of Messner’s list of accomplishments. Messner scaled all 14 of Earth’s highest peaks, which are all higher than 26,000 feet, including the notorious K2. It is understandable why thousands of people try to cross off Messner’s coveted list of the seven summits and why he is regarded as an icon in the mountaineering community.

While Messner is remembered as one of the greatest mountaineers in history, there is still time for you to make history of your own and join the select group of winners who have conquered all seven summits. Let’s break down the even summits one by one:

KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA

Continent: Africa
Elevation: 19,341 ft.
Best times to hike: Any months except April and November due to severe daily monsoons

Climbers on Mount Kilimanjaro, commonly referred to as “The Roof of Africa,” tower over the Tanzanian plains at 19,341 feet. Mount Kilimanjaro is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, meaning it is not surrounded by a mountain range. This mountain is surprisingly non-technical for its impressive elevation and can be described as an extended hike. Kilimanjaro has about eight hiking and descending main routes that take between 5-9 days to complete.

Although the mountain is in Tanzania and is on the equator, climbing it requires passing through an area with an arctic climate and subfreezing temperatures, which is undoubtedly difficult. A warm, layered outfit is a necessity. Kilimanjaro is one of the few seven summits that offers climates other than the snowy arctic, even though extreme temperatures are to be expected there. In actuality, hikers pass through five utterly distinct climate zones. The fact that Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano adds even more to its allure.

ELBRUS, RUSSIA

Continent: Europe
Elevation: 18,510 ft.
Best times to hike: May–September

Mount Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe with a height of 18,510 feet, is ranked fifth among the seven summits. Elbrus has two summits, both of which are just a few feet apart. The eastern summit is only 68 feet lower at 18,442 feet than the western summit, which is taller at 18,510 feet. Most people who want to take the most difficult ascent ascend the mountain’s northern face to the west summit.

A dormant volcano, Mount Elbrus is perpetually covered in snow. Since there are no steep sections of the climb, basic technical mountaineering skills are still necessary to manage the snowfall. Consider practicing elsewhere first if you have little experience with technical climbs, and definitely use a guide if you plan to climb Elbrus. The region is cold because it is near Russia’s southern border. In comparison to Kilimanjaro, where the cold temperatures are a little milder, breathing is even more challenging. Additionally, it takes a lot of time to travel to Russia because of the paperwork, interviews, and visa requirements. Give yourself plenty of time to make travel arrangements.

DENALI, ALASKA

Continent: North America
Elevation: 20,322 ft.
Best times to hike: May–July

North America’s tallest mountain, Mount Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, ranks third among the seven summits. Mount Denali, which is in Alaska, USA, sits in the middle of Denali National Park. This mountain, which has a height of 20,308 feet, provides a striking backdrop for tourists visiting the area and is undoubtedly difficult for climbers. Denali is not an easy climb; in fact, it requires a protracted climbing expedition and is very technical. Regardless of the route taken, the trip takes 17 to 21 days on average to complete. Every route calls for a certain level of physical fitness as well as technical expertise that can only be acquired through prior climbing experience.

Denali provides numerous opportunities to expand your skill sets beyond climbing, which heightens the sense of adventure. Before embarking on the expedition, some people decide to become proficient with dog teams. Once they have mastered some fundamental techniques, climbers will partially carry their sled dogs up the mountain, leaving a cache of supplies for themselves along the way. Others opt to carry the extra weight of skis to the top before skiing down Denali, which is the world’s most thrilling ski descent.

ACONCAGUA, ARGENTINA

Continent: South America
Elevation: 22,838 ft.
Best times to hike: December–March

Argentina’s Mount Aconcagua is the second-highest of the seven summits in terms of elevation. With a whopping 22,841 feet, it is the highest mountain in South America. Mount Aconcagua, in contrast to Mount Everest, offers a route to the summit that doesn’t call for technical climbing abilities. While the climb is made simpler by the lack of technical difficulty, one should never undervalue its risks. Climbers on Aconcagua face significant environmental risks due to the mountain’s consistently below-freezing temperatures.

Many people who visit this mountain to climb it arrive unprepared for the chilly weather and suffer injuries from unintentional exposure to the elements. Additionally, those who have never been to a high altitude find it difficult due to the extreme elevation. Since Mount Aconcagua is only a few thousand feet from the “death zone,” which is an altitude above 26,000 feet, climbers must be ready to ascend slowly and take into account the risks of altitude sickness.

VISION MASSIF, ANTARCTICA

Continent: Antarctica
Elevation: 16,050 ft.
Best times to hike: summer season

Mount Vinson, which stands 16,050 feet tall and was only discovered in 1958, is the tallest mountain in Antarctica. It was first climbed in 1966. Of the seven summits, Vinson is by far the most distant, requiring extensive travel to get there. But making the journey to climb to the “top of the bottom of the world” is undoubtedly worthwhile. Except for Mount Kilimanjaro, most of the mountains in the seven summits (including Mount Vinson) call for at least some technical mountaineering expertise.

Climbers need to be trained in crevasse rescue, crampon use, and the use of ice axes. Extreme temperatures are anticipated where Vinson is located, about 700 miles from the South Pole, and while no one has perished there, many have experienced severe frostbite. It is essential to wear thermal clothing and the right equipment. Plan on hiking for 9 to 12 days to climb this mountain, but keep in mind that the Antarctic is unpredictable and that plans frequently change. To travel into the Antarctic and scale this icy spire, one must be in a strong mental state.

PUNCAK JAYA, INDONESIA

Continent: Oceania
Elevation: 16,024 ft.
Best times to hike: year-round

Puncak Jaya, also known as Carstensz Pyramid, has the highest elevation of the seven summits, at 16,024 feet. Puncak Jaya, which is part of continental Australia and Oceania, is without a doubt the most difficult of the seven summits. Rock climbing expertise and knowledge are necessary to reach Puncak Jaya’s summit. Puncak Jaya’s climbing involves scrambling up slick rock as well as adjusting to significant variations in climate and weather. The trek’s beginning is in a dense rainforest, which makes getting to the mountain a challenge in and of itself.

Climbers must navigate through rock and snow after leaving the rainforest in order to reach the summit. Due to these variations, carrying a variety of clothing and equipment is necessary for the entire climb. Standard ascents of Puncak Jaya typically last one week. The rainforest section of the climb can now be avoided by using a helicopter route that takes climbers straight to base camp.

The fact that local tribes in the rainforest frequently kidnap climbers and demand large ransom payments led to the development of this brand new route. Climbers have even occasionally been kidnapped and severely beaten. It takes roughly 12–14 hours to climb to the summit after using the helicopter route to get to base camp. The cost of climbing Puncak Jaya can be high with this additional transportation, but it is well worth the effort to do so safely.

MTT EVEREST, NEPAL/CHINA

Continent: Asia
Elevation: 29,029 ft.
Best times to hike: A typical expedition lasts around two months, beginning in March.

Mount Everest, which is not only the highest mountain in Asia but also the highest point on Earth, is the most difficult of the seven summits to climb. The summit of Mount Everest, which lies on the dividing line between China and Nepal, is 29,029 feet high. Many climbers leave it as the last test on their Mountain hiking bucket list of seven summits, but climbers from all over the world come to take on this beast. Many climbers who attempt Everest are not technical climbers, despite some of them having years of experience.

There are no technical requirements to reach Everest base camp (17,500 feet), but to reach the summit, one needs knowledge and mountaineering skills. Climbers will need to understand how to use a harness, carabiner, crampons, and an ice axe. Beyond this equipment, the duration and altitude alone call for prior climbing experience from the climber. The decision to attempt the tallest point on Earth should be made with careful thought, preparation, and direction because hundreds have perished on their expedition there.

BEING PREPARED FOR THE SEVEN SUMMITS PREVENTS POSSIBLE DISASTERS

It is essential to have the appropriate clothing and equipment in order to successfully climb these mountain peaks without needing rescue. When you reach higher elevations, you risk freezing if you don’t have the right equipment. You can’t simply dash back to the base camp to grab an additional layer once you are up there.

Depending on which peaks you are climbing, experts advise having several pairs of footwear. In general, you need to be more insulated at higher elevations. The following are a few of the essentials you should put in your pack:

1-2 pairs of thermal long-underwear tops and bottoms
3 pairs of boots
1 pair of 7,000-meter double boots
1 pair of 8,000-meter double boots
1 pair of sturdy trekking boots
Big down jacket (800 fill)
Crampon ice cleats
Down jumpsuit
Figure-eight carabiner
For upper-body clothing, use wool or synthetic materials.
Goggles
Hand protection
Lightweight liner gloves
Midweight climbing gloves
Heavy-duty mittens

Hardware and accessories:

Helmet
Hiking backpack
Ice axe
Insulated pants
Jacket with a hood
Lightweight GortexTM shell pants
Locking carabiners
Non-locking carabiners
Nylon trekking pants
Sattelite phone/weather radio
Sleeping bag rated for extreme conditions
Sleeping pad or air mattress
Soft-shell climbing pants
Sunglasses
Trekking poles

DON’T GO UP ALONE TO THE SEVEN SUMMITS; HIRE A GUIDE.

Many people believe they are competent enough to complete one of these hikes without a trained guide. This can occasionally be a fatal error. It is not advised to attempt these hikes alone unless you are a seasoned climber who has already completed them.

There are knowledgeable hiking guides who make a living by scaling these peaks. An expert guide can show you the way safely to the top and up the awesomeness factor of your hike by giving you insider knowledge and advice that you might miss if you hike alone.

OTHER HIKING TIPS AND ADVICE FOR TACKLING THE SEVEN SUMMITS

Never leave someone in the dark about where you’re going or how long you’ll be gone. They will have a general idea of where to look in case of an emergency. If at all possible, leave a trail map for the hike you intend to take.
Bring chapstick and sunscreen.
Avoid going it alone. Always take a hiking companion.
To prevent altitude sickness, move slowly.
Prepare an emergency plan.
In case of unforeseen extreme weather, keep a tent or tarp nearby as a form of emergency shelter.
If you regularly take medication, make sure to pack extra doses in case you can’t make it back to your base in time.
Maintain a basic first-aid kit on hand.
Keep flashlights and fresh batteries on hand.
Keep waterproof matches on hand.
Keep an eye on the weather, as it can change quickly at higher elevations.
Maintain your position on the trail (if one exists). You’ll get lost if you wander around aimlessly. If you do decide to go rogue, make sure you have the necessary equipment and that someone is aware of your general location.
Stay hydrated and consume plenty of high-calorie and high-carbohydrate foods.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CLIMB EACH OF THE SEVEN SUMMITS?

The following list is a general idea of what each trip to the summit will cost you, from the least expensive to the most expensive:

Elbrus, Russia- $800.00
Kilimanjaro, Tanzania-$3,000.00
Aconcagua, Argentina- $3,500.00
Denali, Alaska- $8,000.00
Puncak Jaya, Oceania- $13,000.00
Vision Massif, Antarctica-$32,000.00
Everest, Nepal/China-$42,000.00
Total cost for all seven trips: $133,800.00

TOP INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE SEVEN SUMMITS

The Seven Summits: Interesting Facts

Denali, at 63° north latitude, is the farthest north of the seven summits.
Richard Bass became the first person to climb all seven summits in 1985.
Kilimanjaro is made up of three volcanoes.
Vinson was named after Carl Vinson, a Georgia congressman who served from 1935 to 1961.
Some people define the seven summits differently depending on what they consider to be the true continents.
A 13-year-old boy is the youngest person to have climbed all seven summits.
Those who want to climb Mount Everest must first perform a puja ceremony to gain permission from the mountain gods. This is an ancient Buddhist ceremony that is usually performed at the base camp before a climb by two or three monks.
Only about 280 people have successfully climbed all seven summits to date.
The oldest person to date to climb the seven summits was 76 years old.

START YOUR SEVEN SUMMITS EXPEDITION

The seven summits can be reached in any order, but there is a logical progression that can be followed to improve mountaineering abilities. If you’re prepared to begin your ascent of the seven summits, Mount Kilimanjaro should be your first objective. The fourth-highest mountain on the list, Kilimanjaro, is also the most accessible. The only technical expertise needed is for the altitude; nothing else. Consider climbing the seven-day Machame route, which includes an extra day for acclimatization, if you’ve never been to high altitudes. A different option is the Lemosho route, which is the longest of the main Kilimanjaro routes, takes eight days to complete, and provides the best mountain panoramas.

THE SEVEN SUMMITS HIKING END RESULT IS WELL WORTH THE TIME AND EFFORT

You will be met with the most breathtaking views that are difficult to describe once you have spent the time and effort necessary to ascend the peak. It’s a sensation that is indescribably intense. These seven treks may be exactly what you’re looking for if you love the outdoors and discovering new things that make you appreciate how tiny you and I are in relation to the rest of creation. Get in shape, start making plans, and reserve your expedition right away!

CONCLUSION

These hikes are not suitable for those who are weak of heart or weekend joggers. You will encounter extreme weather and physically demanding conditions if you decide to take on these treks, so you better be in the best physical shape of your life and be well-versed in survival skills. While physical strength is essential, a positive outlook and the ability to persevere under pressure rank equally high.