Does Antarctica Have Mountains?

Yes—Antarctica has many mountains, mountain ranges, and peaks. The statement "Antarctica does not have any mountains" is incorrect.

Major Mountain Systems

• Transantarctic Mountains – 3,500 km divide separating East/West Antarctica; peaks >4,500 m.
• Ellsworth Mountains – Highest range; Mount Vinson (4,892 m) = continent's highest peak.
• Prince Charles Mountains, Queen Maud Mountains, Thiel Mountains, Heritage Range, Sentinel Range.
• Volcanic peaks – Mount Erebus (3,794 m, active), Mount Sidley (4,285 m).

Why the Confusion?

Ice sheets bury most topography; only nunataks (rock peaks protruding through ice) are visible. But the bedrock is intensely mountainous.