The United States boasts an incredible range of elevation, encompassing sun-kissed coastlines, sprawling plains, and breathtaking summits. But have you ever wondered where the tallest peaks are? Join us on a virtual expedition to discover the tallest points in the U.S. and each state, which promises amazing vistas from above and a rush of adrenaline for every stride you take.
The Highest Elevation In The U.S.
Denali, also known as Mount McKinley in Alaska, stands as the U.S. highest elevation, with a height of 20,310 feet. While the precise height of this mountain peak is still being discussed, the discrepancies differ by a few meters. With Mount Denali, Alaska has become the state with the highest elevation of over 20,000 feet.
There are 12 other states with the highest elevations surpassing 10,000 feet, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. Nestled within the western region, these locations feature elevated mountains, plateaus, and deserts.
As one traverses eastward across the country, the terrain gradually diminishes in elevation. This region owns six states with elevations below 1,000 feet, including Delaware, Florida, the District of Columbia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Rhode Island. The U.S. lowest point, Florida, rests at a mere 345 feet above sea level at its highest elevation.
The Highest Point In Every State
| State | Highest Point | Elevation (ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | Britton Hill | 345 |
| District Of Columbia | Fort Reno Park | 409 |
| Delaware | Ebright Azimuth | 447.85 |
| Louisiana | Driskill Mountain | 535 |
| Mississippi | Woodall Mountain | 806 |
| Rhode Island | Jerimoth Hill | 812 |
| Illinois | Charles Mound | 1,235 |
| Indiana | Hoosier Hill | 1,257 |
| Ohio | Campbell Hill | 1,549 |
| Iowa | Hawkeye Point | 1,670 |
| Missouri | Taum Sauk Mountain | 1,772 |
| New Jersey | High Point | 1,803 |
| Wisconsin | Timms Hill | 1,951 |
| Michigan | Mount Arvon | 1,979 |
| Minnesota | Eagle Mountain | 2,301 |
| Alabama | Mount Cheaha | 2,413 |
| Connecticut | Mount Frissell | 2,454 |
| Arkansas | Mount Magazine | 2,753 |
| Pennsylvania | Mount Davis | 3,213 |
| Maryland | Hoye Crest | 3,360 |
| Massachusetts | Mount Greylock | 3,489 |
| North Dakota | White Butte | 3,506 |
| South Carolina | Sassafras Mountain | 3,554 |
| Kansas | Mount Sunflower | 4,039 |
| Kentucky | Black Mountain | 4,145 |
| Vermont | Mount Mansfield | 4,393 |
| Georgia | Brasstown Bald | 4,784 |
| West Virginia | Spruce Knob | 4,863 |
| Oklahoma | Black Mesa | 4,973 |
| Maine | Mount Katahdin | 5,269 |
| New York | Mount Marcy | 5,344 |
| Nebraska | Panorama Point | 5,429 |
| Virginia | Mount Rogers | 5,729 |
| New Hampshire | Mount Washington | 6,288 |
| Tennessee | Clingmans Dome | 6,643 |
| North Carolina | Mount Mitchell | 6,684 |
| South Dakota | Black Elk Peak | 7,244 |
| Texas | Guadalupe Peak | 8,751 |
| Oregon | Mount Hood | 11,249 |
| Arizona | Humphreys Peak | 12,633 |
| Idaho | Borah Peak | 12,662 |
| Montana | Granite Peak | 12,799 |
| Nevada | Boundary Peak | 13,147 |
| New Mexico | Wheeler Peak | 13,161 |
| Utah | Kings Peak | 13,528 |
| Hawaii | Mauna Kea | 13,803 |
| Wyoming | Gannett Peak | 13,804 |
| Washington | Mount Rainier | 14,411 |
| Colorado | Mount Elbert | 14,440 |
| California | Mount Whitney | 14,505 |
| Alaska | Mount Denali | 20,310 |
51. Britton Hill – Florida (345 ft)
Given Florida’s nearly sea-level average elevation, it comes as no shock that the state’s highest point holds the title of being the lowest peak in the United States. Britton Hill is located in Lakewood Park within Walton County, near the Alabama border. This area is home to a subtropical ecosystem with lush vegetation teeming with a quiet atmosphere to get closer to nature.
50. Fort Reno Park – The District Of Columbia (409 ft)
Fort Reno serves as an urban park under the stewardship of the National Park Service. Before the 1920s, it was home to the Black community called Reno. Despite efforts by the residents to preserve their land, it was razed. Today, Fort Reno derives its name from a historical landmark that witnessed fierce combat during the American Civil War.
49. Ebright Azimuth – Delaware (447.85 ft)
Ebright Road is the second lowest elevation in the United States, followed by Florida. The Delaware Geological Survey, in collaboration with the National Geological Survey, marked the roof of Delaware with a benchmark. It was named in honor of Grant and James Ebright, the landowners upon which the marker stands. Despite the absence of grand mountain vistas, it retains its allure with the subtle topographical nuances of the frontier countryside and the undulating hills of the Brandywine Valley.
48. Driskill Mountain – Louisiana (535 ft)
At first glance, Driskill Mountain appears more akin to a gently rolling hill than a towering peak. Positioned in Bienville Parish in northern Louisiana, the area develops from unlithified Palrogene deposits and holds ties to James Christopher Driskill, its proprietor in the 1850s. Without geographical complexity, a well-maintained trail to the summit offers a pleasant hike through the hardwood forests.
47. Woodall Mountain – Mississippi (806 ft)
Once you approach Mount Woodall in Tishomingo County, a sad history unfolds. Formerly known as Yow Mountain, this site underwent the fierce Battle of Iuka in 1862 during the Civil War. Renamed in 1878 in honor of Tishomingo County Sheriff Zephaniah Woodall, the echoes of conflict have faded, leaving behind landscapes of serene beauty.
46. Jerimoth Hill – Rhode Island (812 ft)
Jerimoth Hill stays close to the Connecticut border in the state’s northwest. It was formerly in private hands but is now under the control of the Rhode Island government. This facilitates easier access to its peak. A straightforward 0.3-mile hike from Hartford Pike leads visitors to the federal geological survey landmark marking the summit.
45. Charles Mound – Illinois (1,235 ft)
Charles Mound stays within the Driftless Area in the northwest, close to the town of Scales Mound. The area survived the crushing of the last continental glaciers. Today, the highest point in Illinois features typical landscapes of the untouched prairie and farmlands. From the summit, visitors can admire the great green patch of farmland. Restricted by private ownership, Charles Mound opens its doors to the public on designated weekends.
44. Hoosier Hill – Indiana (1,257 ft)
Hoosier High Point is located in a quaint park within Wayne County. A modest stone monument distinguishes the loftiest spot in Indiana. The encompassing scenery mirrors the typical charm of the Midwest, with verdant farms and dense woodlands. A short hike along the trail presents an opportunity for a leisurely picnic beneath expansive trees amidst the embrace of fresh air.
43. Campbell Hill – Ohio (1,549 ft)
Standing on the Ohio High-point Career Center campus, Campbell Hill is a modest elevation that once hosted a radar station established by the United States Air Force during the Cold War. Its name pays tribute to Charles O. Campbell – the former owner of this property. Long ago, Campbell Hill took root from Bellefontaine Outlier, an ancient mountain range weathered over time.
42. Hawkeye Point – Iowa (1,670 ft)
Hawkeye Point offers a small yet significant glimpse into the agricultural landscapes of northwest Iowa. A plaque from mosaic stones marks this summit. The landmark’s surface depicts a compass incorporating a map of Iowa. Visitors are drawn to its unassuming allure and profound ties to the farming community.
Once in the possession of the Sterler family, Hawkeye Point now belongs to the local government. It serves as a venue for showcasing farm equipment, paying homage to the rich agricultural legacy of Iowa.
41. Taum Sauk Mountain – Missouri (1,772 ft)
Named after the Piankeshaw chief Sauk-Ton-Qua, Taum Sauk Mountain emerges from the St. Francois Mountains and finds its home within a nearly 7,500-acre State Park. The location reveals a contrasting picture of romantic allure and rugged landscapes. You can spend a whole day here doing outdoor activities. The Ozark Trail opens avenues to explore the magnificent Mina Sauk Falls or delve into this region’s rich ecology and geology.
40. High Point – New Jersey (1,803 ft)
As the highest point in New Jersey, High Point stands tall in the state park of the same name. It is marked by a 220-foot-tall Monument that pays tribute to veterans who died during wartime. Geologically, High Point sits atop the Kittatinny Ridge – a mountain range formed by continental collisions over the centuries. In winter, the area is a hub for ski enthusiasts, while throughout the rest of the year, its expansive picnic areas draw visitors seeking leisure within the park.
39. Timms Hill – Wisconsin (1,951 ft)
Diverse terrains of crystal clear lakes, dense forests, and gentle hills embrace Timmis Hills. As a part of the Wisconsin Upland characterized by glacial remnants, a visit to Timmis Hills takes you through a unique landscape system from the ancient Ice Ages. If you reach the top, stop by the observation tower at the site. This structure offers a 30-mile vista extending across Wisconsin Northwoods.
38. Mount Arvon – Michigan (1,979 ft)
Mount Arvon features picturesque landscapes in the Upper Peninsula, located within the Huron Range in the Upper Peninsula. Despite private ownership of Weyerhaeuser, visitors are allowed to visit this stunning summit. Without tough terrain, the adventure to Arvon promises a serene escape amidst nature’s embrace.
Enhanced road conditions benefit driving to the dense forests. Upon reaching the summit, behold the sublime grandeur of Lake Superior and let your heart synchronize with the rhythmic pulse of nature.
37. Eagle Mountain – Minnesota (2,301 ft)
Eagle Mountain arises from a giant granite structure known as the Duluth Complex. It is situated within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), which promises an unparalleled encounter with nature wonders. The trek to the summit unveils the untamed splendor like never before. Every stride leads you through lush forests and pristine lakes, captivating your soul with their unspoiled allure.
36. Mount Cheaha – Alabama (2,413 ft)
Cheaha Mountain, also known as Delta, forms a part of the Talladega Range, or in a broader sense, the ancient Appalachian Mountains. Its name originates from the Creek word “Chaha,” translating to “high place.” Located within the Cheaha State Park, the mountain region exhibits numerous camping areas and trails for enthusiastic explorers.
Bunker Hill Tower stands at the highest point of Cheaha Mountain – a dream come true for the most daring hikers. Constructed of wood and sandstone, its rustic charm blends with the natural surroundings. Inside the structure, a staircase leads to an observation deck, opening to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the vast forest.
35. Mount Frissell – Connecticut (2,454ft)
The south slope of Mount Frissell is the highest peak in Connecticut. Its meandering trail across Taconic Mount guides hikers through the convergence point of three states: Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts. Ascending Mount Frissell promises a delightful adventure characterized by towering trees, lush forests, and rugged rock formations.
34. Mount Magazine – Arkansas (2,753 ft)
The name Magazine Mountain has sparked tourists’ curiosity. According to some legends, French explorers took the term after a landslide that resonated as an ammunition magazine exploded. Others suggest that the name comes from the French word “magasin” (meaning storehouse), which describes the mountain’s role as a repository for natural wonders.
Located in the Ozark National Forest, the mountain is enveloped by picturesque landscapes characterized by rugged cliffs and hardwood forests. Beyond its natural charm, Magazine Mountain offers numerous outdoor activities, such as birdwatching, hiking, or paragliding.
33. Mount Davis – Pennsylvania (3,213 ft)
Named in honor of the pioneer settler and scholar John Nelson Davis, Mount Davis stands as a tribute to his efforts in conserving the region. Located in southwestern Pennsylvania, this unassuming summit boasts geological and plant diversity. From the base, trails lead visitors past wetlands and boulders. An observation tower beckons at the highest point, providing 360-degree views of Forbes State Forest and the Appalachian Plateau.
32. Hoye Crest – Maryland (3,360 ft)
Hoye Crest, a sub-branch of Backbone Mountain, claims the title of the loftiest point in Maryland. While under private ownership, curious travelers can access this site via a trail from Virginia along Route 219. The adventure is a moderately challenging hike through the vast Garrett State Forest, leading you to the highest point marker.
31. Mount Greylock – Massachusetts (3,489 ft)
Located in northwestern Massachusetts, it became the state’s first conservation area in 1898, which now covers over 12,500 acres. At its highest spot, visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of the picturesque Berkshire landscapes. Greylock Mountain is known for its distinctive vegetation during the summer, notably the ancient red spruce trees.
As winter approaches, the slopes become a sought-after destination for skiers and snowboarders. Those venturing along the 11.5-mile section of the Appalachian Trail make their way to the War Memorial Tower atop the summit.
30. White Butte – North Dakota (3,506 ft)
Positioned within the expanse of the Little Missouri National Grassland, White Butte is under the ownership of the Dennis family. The owners have set up a donation box near the parking lot for visitors. At the time of our writing, each person should contribute a $5 fee to support the area’s upkeep.
White Butte earns its popularity due to its unique geological characteristics. This location showcases sedimentary rock layers deposited over 60 million years ago. The white peaks contrast against the lush grasslands, crafting a lively scene.
29. Sassafras Mountain – South Carolina (3,554 ft)
Sassafras Mountain is positioned on the border between South Carolina and North Carolina. In 2019, the local government built an observation tower called Sassafras Mountain Tower atop the summit. This 11-foot-tall structure provides sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This enhances the experience of tourists who opt for the Foothills Trail. Along the path leading to the peak, the presence of Sassafras trees accompanies every step of the ascent.
28. Mount Sunflower – Kansas (4,039 ft)
Despite its name, Mount Sunflower is a modest outcrop blending into the expansive high plains that define Kansas. It lies close to the Colorado border on private property. However, the generous owners allow visitors to reach this site. This scenic vista reflects the character of Kansas, with rolling hills meeting vast skies. A sunflower sculpture garden crafted from railroad spikes adds a unique touch to the surroundings.
27. Black Mountain – Kentucky (4,145 ft)
Previously recognized as Mount Katahdin, Black Mountain was historically a bustling mining locale. In 1999, the Commonwealth of Kentucky reached an agreement with local miners to cease mining operations at the summit and establish a Timber Conservation Area. These efforts have fostered a pleasant habitat for hardwood forests and wild animals, such as the Indiana bat and Wehrle’s salamander.
Black Mountain stands out as one of the most accessible mountains thanks to its well-developed automobile infrastructure. Contrary to expectations, the summit area is not a tourist hotspot, allowing visitors to find solace in the tranquility of the surroundings.
26. Mount Mansfield – Vermont (4,393 ft)
Mount Mansfield features a unique silhouette reminiscent of the human jawline, with its peak resembling a chin. Positioned within the Green Range, the locale earned the prestigious designation of the National Natural Landmark in 1980. It is the only place in the northeast where alpine tundra and arctic flora have survived since the Ice Ages.
A trek to explore this unique ecosystem is an enticing option for those seeking adventure. Alternatively, the Nature Reserve serves a network of cable cars to shorten the time to the summit, a convenience particularly valuable for winter skiing enthusiasts.
25. Brasstown Bald – Georgia (4,784 ft)
Brasstown Bald rises from the Blue Ridge Mountains in northeastern Georgia. It forms a part of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, straddling the borders of Union and Towns Counties. It is accessible via a well-maintained paved road leading to an observation tower.
Our spirits soared as we ascended the last step. An amazing spectacle unfolded around us – a 360-degree vista spanning four states: South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. Additionally, the summit area houses a museum and visitor center where visitors can delve into the rich history, geology, and diverse ecosystems of Brasstown Bald.
24. Spruce Knob – West Virginia (4,863 ft)
Spruce Knob is a modest mountain in the Allegheny Mountains. It is enveloped in dense spruce forests within the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area. A well-developed trail system facilitates convenient passage to the summit, unveiling captivating viewpoints. Ascending to the peak proves rewarding as an observation tower constructed of stone and steel awaits, providing sweeping vistas of the rugged terrain and clear skies.
23. Black Mesa – Oklahoma (4,973 ft)
Black Mesa stretches across several states, including New Mexico and Colorado, but it peaks in Oklahoma. Its name comes from the black lava rock coating the flat-topped mesa. The rugged environment in this area accentuates the severe climate, exuding a sense of untamed wilderness and intrigue. Not typically viewed as a tourist attraction, Black Mesa is a center of archaeology since it contains remarkable dinosaur fossils.
22. Mount Katahdin – Maine (5,269 ft)
As the launching pad for the Northern Appalachian Trail, Mount Katahdin earns its moniker from the Penobscot Indians. The title with its meaning “The Greatest Mountain” captures the magnificence of this geological marvel. Despite its rugged alpine setting, the mountain teems with diverse wildlife.
Katahdin Mount is also a favored haunt for climbers. Located in Baxter State Park, the mountain attained a National Natural Landmark in 1967 as part of a conservation effort initiated by Governor Percival Baxter to safeguard wilderness areas.
21. Mount Marcy – New York (5,344 ft)
Mount Marcy possesses numerous ancient nicknames, including Tahawus (meaning “cloud divider”) and Tewawe’éstha (meaning “it pierces”). However, Mount Marcy was officially christened in the 19th century to honor Governor William L. Marcy, who conducted important environmental surveys of the area.
Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, Mount Marcy is one of the few places to witness a tapestry of mountains from above. You can witness 43 other peaks from the summit on clear days. Meanwhile, the winter alpine tundra provides an ideal training ground for those preparing for Arctic expeditions.
20. Panorama Point – Nebraska (5,429 ft)
Located in western Nebraska within Kimball County, Panorama Point diverges from other high points with its expansive flat plateaus, symbolic of the central United States. A nominal fee grants access to the mountain summit. However, your money is worth it to capture the green carpet of grass stretching to the horizon.
19. Mount Rogers – Virginia (5,729 ft)
Mount Rogers is named after the father of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, William Barton Rogers, the first geologist in Virginia. Unlike other Appalachian mountains, this place stands out for its unique ecosystem. First, Mount Rogers captivates visitors with its dense spruce-fir forest. Visitors encounter at least one wild horse along the trails in the National Recreation Area. These creatures have adapted to the high-altitude environment, harmoniously maintaining the ecosystem.
18. Mount Washington – New Hampshire (6,288 ft)
Also known as Agiocochook Mount by Native American tribes, Mount Washington rises from the White Mountains. While a complete driving route offers a swift path to the summit, the mountain retains its allure as a favored spot for hikers.
One of the defining features of Mount Washington is its formidable winds. The summit observatory once recorded a wind speed of 231 mph, holding a world record from 1934 to 1996. Mount Washington is further distinguished by its diverse vegetation, which transitions from hardwood forest at the base to alpine tundra at higher elevations.
17. Clingmans Dome – Tennessee (6,643 ft)
Clingman Dome emerges within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Visitors can reach the summit via a well-maintained paved road. However, the moderate incline adds a touch of challenge to the ascent.
On this hike, it is easy to notice the area’s distinctive flora of spruce-fir and broadleaf forests. On clear days, the observation tower, built in 1959, provides a breathtaking vista spanning up to 100 miles of neighboring peaks and surrounding valleys. Beginning early offers the chance to witness the ethereal “smoke” that defines Clingman Dome.
16. Mount Mitchell – North Carolina (6,684 ft)
Mount Mitchell is a prominent feature on the east side of the Mississippi River. In 1915, the local government established a state park for recreational purposes, such as camping, educational exhibits, and climbing. The summit is easily accessible by road, but the final stretch remains impassable by car. Mount Mitchell is named after Professor Elisha Mitchell, who determined its height. Unfortunately, he lost his life while surveying the hillside.
15. Black Elk Peak – South Dakota (7,244 ft)
Recognized as Harney Peak, the Black Hills were renamed in tribute to a legendary Lakota Sioux medicine man. Since the late 1890s, numerous surveys have been conducted to ascertain the precise elevation of the region. However, it wasn’t until 2016 that the official result of 7,231.32 feet tall was confirmed.
Various trails leading to the summit cater to hikers of all proficiency levels, guiding them through the Black Elk Reservation and Custer State Park before culminating at the fire tower by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
14. Guadalupe Peak – Texas (8,751 ft)
Guadalupe Peak, located in Guadalupe National Park, grew from an ancient limestone reef dating back to the Permian Period. Once a vast inland sea from hundreds of millions of years ago, the terrain has transformed into a barren Chihuahuan Desert.
In 1958, American Airlines erected a stainless steel pyramid on the summit. The structure marked the 100th anniversary of the Butterfield Overland Mail. It bears three distinct faces with logos that pay homage to important organizations in the United States.
13. Mount Hood – Oregon (11,249 ft)
Mount Hood is a stratovolcano in the east of Portland. Despite its last eruption dating back to 1781, it is still considered an active volcano. In June 2021, the movement of a magnitude 3.9 earthquake beneath sea level underscored its latent power.
The terrain of Mount Hood proves a blend of snowfields and ancient glaciers on the summit. Beyond its reputation for skiing, the Timberline Trail meandering through the mountain takes hikers to Timberline Lodge, where the WPA era unfolded in the 1930s.
12. Humphreys Peak – Arizona (12,633 ft)
Humphrey, an ancient extinct volcano amid the San Francisco Peaks, finds its home within the Coconino National Forest. It holds deep spiritual significance for some Native American tribes. It is also known for its extensive hiking trails leading through diverse ecosystems.
Each of your steps reveals new nature wonders, from alpine forests to arctic tundra. Fortunate adventurers are greeted with awesome views of the crimson rocks of Sedona and the Grand Canyon.
11. Borah Peak – Idaho (12,662 ft)
Much like Mount Elbert, Borah Peak resides in the Rocky Mountains but distinguishes itself within the Lost River Range. In 1983, the largest earthquake in Idaho increased its elevation by a foot. Further insights from the U.S. The Geological Survey revealed that its height surpasses the current recorded measurement by four feet.
Renowned for its challenging terrain, the expedition to Borah Peak, named the “Chicken-Out Ridge,” ignites the adrenaline pumping. Adventurous climbers are then treated to active glaciers and deep valleys.
10. Granite Peak – Montana (12,799 ft)
Granite Peak is part of the Beartooth Mountains, standing as a pinnacle of challenging climbs. The tough terrain maintains its spot on the must-conquer list of seasoned mountaineers. Facing the mountain’s technical challenges and volatile weather requires a strong will and peak physical condition. Yet, your courage will be compensated with a pristine landscape at the top, seemingly untouched by human presence. The high-altitude scenery, shaped by the glacial forces of the last Ice Age, promises an awe-inspiring experience.
9. Boundary Peak – Nevada (13,147 ft)
True to its name, Boundary Peak perches near the border of California and Nevada. Like other peaks in the White Mountains, this place challenges climbers with its demanding ascent. Upon reaching the summit, breathtaking panoramas captivate your soul. The expanse of the Great Basin unfolds before you, while the beauty of Mono Lake and the White Mountains Wilderness awaits to the south. Casting your gaze eastward reveals the majestic expanse of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
8. Wheeler Peak – New Mexico (13,161 ft)
Wheeler Peak rises from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, a subset of the Rocky Range to the south. A plaque at its summit commemorates Major George Montague Wheeler, whose studies significantly contributed to the geological and topographical records of New Mexico.
In the Natural Reserve, Wheeler Peak harbors a diverse array of wildlife. There are many things to do here, from fishing and camping to simply basking in the beautiful views of the desert landscapes.
7. Kings Peak – Utah (13,528 ft)
Kings Peak is part of the Uinta Range, another subset of the Rocky Mountains. Its most striking feature points to the unique east-to-west orientation rather than the north-to-south alignment of neighboring mountains.
This characteristic draws experienced climbers seeking to push their limits. The rough terrain and vast alpine basins pose extreme challenges. As you reach the top, your efforts pay off with stunning scenes of numerous lakes and the vast tundra below.
6. Mauna Kea – Hawaii (13,803 ft)
Mauna Kea is an ancient dormant volcano whose submerged eruptions shaped the formation of Hawaii. Located on the Big Island, this majestic peak has earned several records, including being the world’s tallest mountain when measured from its base to the ocean bed and the second-highest island summit.
Mauna Kea boasts profound spiritual importance to the indigenous communities and invaluable scientific insights to researchers. The diverse climate has fostered the flourishing growth of endemic flora and fauna, while its low-pollution environment has facilitated the installation of the world’s largest astronomical observatory.
5. Gannett Peak – Wyoming (13,804 ft)
Gannett Peak is located near Sublette County and Fremont County – almost isolated from the broader expanse of the Rocky Mountains. The remote location helps preserve the pristine alpine environment here. The adventure to the summit is undeniably a formidable exercise, necessitating days of traversing challenging trails flanked by expansive glaciers and jagged cliffs. In return, you are treated to awe-inspiring landscapes encompassing sprawling plains and crystalline lakes.
4. Mount Rainier – Washington (14,411 ft)
Mount Rainier is a symbol of Washington state. In addition to its height, the snow-capped peak and glacial terrain define its charm. The wildflower meadows encircling the mountain base during the summer offer a dramatic contrast.
Nevertheless, Mount Rainier is not a destination for the unprepared hiker. This region often contends with rain, clouds, and snow-laden glaciers riddled with crevasses. The abundant wildlife, such as mountain goats and black bears, present significant hazards to visitors.
Most importantly, the USGS remains concerned about its potential for reactivation. While Mount Rainier has not erupted for 500 years, frequent earthquakes raise the specter of unexpected volcanic activity.
3. Mount Elbert – Colorado (14,440 ft)
Mount Elbert, the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains, ranks second among the highest summits in the contiguous United States. It is located near the San Isabel National Forest and the Sawatch Mountains and offers a challenging yet rewarding ascent for adventurers. The standard route, the South Mount Elbert Trail, takes you through rows of pine and aspen groves while filling your lungs with refreshing mountain air.
You should monitor the weather before setting out. Beginning your hike between July and mid-June is not advisable due to the frequent evening thunderstorms. If you notice dark clouds developing, retreat to safety.
2. Mount Whitney – California (14,505 ft)
Mount Whitney stood as the highest peak in the lower 48 states before the inclusion of Hawaii and Alaska to the U.S. Extending from the Sierra Nevada range, it spans the boundary between the Inyo National Forest in California and Sequoia National Park.
Over time, Mount Whitney has maintained its appeal as a popular destination for backpacking and hiking along the Pacific Crest Trail. Adequate preparation takes you to the summit, offering sweeping scenery of the Owens Valley, the Alabama Hills, and the Sierra Nevada Range.
1. Mount Denali – Alaska (20,310 ft)
As mentioned above, Denali is the highest peak in the United States and North America. As the core of the Alaska Range, it holds the record for the greatest vertical elevation situated entirely above sea level. Nestled within the Denali National Park, its landscape remains in a pristine wilderness state.
This location was originally named after presidential candidate William McKinley. In 2015, it received its current title, which has resonated with the Koyukon people for generations. Translated as “The Great One,” this appellation mirrors the mountain’s majestic stature.
See more: Top 10 U.S. Tallest Mountains
Conclusion
The United States’ highest elevation is a testament to the power of Mother Nature and the enduring spirit of human exploration. Additionally, the remaining peaks in each state are also a gift of natural creation, proving the unparalleled beauty of the country. Whether you are an avid climber, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates the natural heritages, these landscapes will leave a lasting impression.
