Ian Hughes
On a mission to complete the Explorer’s Grand Slam: the highest peak on every continent and a ski to both Poles.
From Soldier
To Subsea
To Summits
Ian Hughes is pushing his limits while raising vital support for veterans.
Behind every summit is a cause that matters.
The Journey so Far
From the summit of Kilimanjaro to the top of Everest, the South Pole and Mount Vinson, each expedition has pushed me further, mentally, physically, and professionally.
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Mount Vinson
Mount Vinson
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Straight after the South Pole Solo, Ian stayed in Antarctica and summited Mount Vinson, the continent's highest peak, in January 2026: his sixth of the Seven Summits.
January 2026
Antarctica, Sentinel Range, Ellsworth Mountains
Antarctica, Sentinel Range, Ellsworth Mountains
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South Pole Solo
South Pole Solo
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After 40 days alone on the ice, the expedition concluded at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, bringing the journey to a close on Christmas Day.
November 2025
Antarctica
Antarctica
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Everest
Everest
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Summited the world’s highest peak after weeks on the mountain, a major turning point.
May 2025
Nepal/Tibet, Himalayas
Nepal/Tibet, Himalayas
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Carstensz Pyramid
Carstensz Pyramid
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A technical rock climb through jungle and limestone that pushed precision and focus.
October 2024
Papua Province, Indonesia
Papua Province, Indonesia
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Elbrus
Elbrus
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Elbrus was the third of my Seven Summits, and it left a lasting impression. It wasn’t the hardest climb physically, but mentally, pushing through that sickness tested me.
August 2024
Caucasus Mountains, Russia
Caucasus Mountains, Russia
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Denali
Denali
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A brutal cold-weather climb with heavy loads and altitude sickness. Summit reached.
May 2024
Alaska, USA
Alaska, USA
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Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro
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The first summit of the Grand Slam journey. a high-altitude test that marked the starting line.
January 2024
Tanzania, Africa
Tanzania, Africa
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