With mountains in the United States over 20,000 feet, the country has some of the most beautiful peaks in the world. From the famous Mount Whitney in California to the magnificent Denali in Alaska, these peaks provide travelers with amazing landscapes and difficult climbs. Where are the 20 highest mountains in the US? Discover the special characteristics, locations, and heights of the top 20 highest mountains in the United States.
Top 20 highest mountains in the US
Discover their elevations, locations, and unique characteristics that attract climbers and adventurers seeking breathtaking views and challenging ascents. Experience the majesty of these towering summits across the diverse American landscape.
20. Mount Augusta
Mount Augusta, also known as Boundary Mountain 183, is a significant Alaskan mountain reaching 14,072 feet. It is in the Saint Elias Mountains, 25 km south of Mount Logan and 25 km east of Mount Saint Elias. The mountain’s cliffs and snow make climbing difficult. Mount Augusta is a high peak in the area with excellent views and is near the first and second-highest mountains in Canada. It has the tallest peaks in Alaska.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Augusta | Alaska, USA | 14,072 | 1,000 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Saint Elias | Yukon/Alaska Border | 18,008 | 10,000 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
19. Crestone Peak
Crestone Peak, with an elevation of 14,300 feet (4,359 meters), is the seventh-highest summit in the Rocky Mountains and the highest point in the Crestones of Colorado.
Among the most difficult climbs in the state, this well-known fourteen stands out for its rocky terrain and cliffs.
Climbers climb a unique red gully in the mountain to reach the summit. Located among the highest mountains in the USA, Crestone Peak provides breathtaking views and attracts professional mountaineers looking for adventure as part of the Sangre de Cristo Range.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crestone Peak | Colorado, USA | 14,300 | 1,900 |
| Mount Elbert | Colorado, USA | 14,440 | 9,093 |
| Mount Massive | Colorado, USA | 14,428 | 1,928 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 10,080 |
18. Uncompahgre Peak
Uncompahgre Peak, with an elevation of 14,321 feet (4,365 meters), is the sixth-highest summit in the Rocky Mountains and the highest point in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado.
This well-known mountain has a rocky volcanic landscape with unique summit massifs and cliffs. Known for its remarkable beauty, the peak provides amazing views of the surrounding countryside.
As the highest point in the Colorado River drainage basin, Uncompahgre Peak attracts hikers and climbers seeking one of the highest mountains in the USA.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncompahgre Peak | Colorado, USA | 14,321 | 4,278 |
| Mount Elbert | Colorado, USA | 14,440 | 9,093 |
| Mount Massive | Colorado, USA | 14,428 | 1,928 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 10,080 |
17. Blanca Peak
Blanca Peak, with an elevation of 14,351 feet (4,374 meters), is the fourth highest summit in the Rocky Mountains and the highest peak in the Sierra Blanca Massif of Colorado.
Known for its rugged terrain and dramatic cliffs, the mountain features a striking granite and metamorphic rock composition. Beautiful alpine scenery, including glacial lakes and varied animals, surrounds the mountain.
Blanca Peak is a challenging climb, attracting experienced hikers and mountaineers seeking to conquer one of the highest mountains in the USA.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blanca Peak | Colorado, USA | 14,351 | 2,551 |
| Mount Elbert | Colorado, USA | 14,440 | 9,093 |
| Mount Massive | Colorado, USA | 14,428 | 1,928 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 10,080 |
16. Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier, also known as Tahoma, is a large active stratovolcano in the Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest in the United States.
Standing at 14,411 feet (4,392 meters), it is the highest mountain in Washington and the Cascade Range, and the fifth highest peak in the contiguous United States.
The mountain is located in Mount Rainier National Park, about 59 miles south-southeast of Seattle. Its glaciated, conical shape and prominent location make it one of the most recognizable peaks in the region.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Rainier | Washington, USA | 14,411 | 13,210 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 10,080 |
| Mount Elbert | Colorado, USA | 14,440 | 9,093 |
15. Mount Harvard
Mount Harvard, standing at 14,421 feet (4,395 meters), is the third highest summit of the Rocky Mountains and the U.S. state of Colorado.
It is the highest peak in the Collegiate Peaks and the fourth highest in the contiguous United States.
Located in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness of San Isabel National Forest, Mount Harvard offers a high, rounded summit and mild slopes that are accessible by well-maintained hiking paths. Despite its height, it is less well-known than some other Colorado 14ers owing to its position northwest of Buena Vista, away from main routes.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Harvard | Colorado, USA | 14,421 | 1,401 |
| Mount Elbert | Colorado, USA | 14,440 | 9,093 |
| Mount Massive | Colorado, USA | 14,428 | 1,928 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 10,080 |
14. Mount Massive
Mount Massive, standing at 14,428 feet (4,398 meters), is the second-highest peak in Colorado and the Rocky Mountains of North America. It is part of the Sawatch Range and is located in the Mount Massive Wilderness of San Isabel National Forest.
The mountain is notable for its long form, with five peaks over 14,000 feet and a summit ridge almost 3 miles long. This results in more territory over 14,000 feet than any other peak in the contiguous United States, just edging out Mount Rainier.
The major approach to Mount Massive is via the Mount Massive Trailhead near Elbert Creek Campground. The peak may be accessed by many routes, including the normal Southeast Slopes and the more demanding Southeast Ridge.
Although the mountain’s mild slopes and well-kept paths draw a lot of hikers and climbers, its height and unpredictable climate make it still a challenging rise.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Massive | Colorado, USA | 14,428 | 1,928 |
| Mount Elbert | Colorado, USA | 14,440 | 9,093 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 10,080 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
13. Mount Elbert
Mount Elbert, with an elevation of 14,440 feet (4,401 meters), is the highest summit of the Rocky Mountains and the tallest mountain in Colorado. It is also the second-highest peak in the contiguous United States, just behind Mount Whitney.
The mountain has a large, rounded peak and is distinguished by mild slopes accessible with well-kept hiking paths.
Popular for its amazing views of the surrounding Sawatch Range, Mount Elbert attracts a lot of hikers eager to explore one of the highest mountains in the United States.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Elbert | Colorado, USA | 14,440 | 10,080 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 10,080 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Massive | Colorado, USA | 14,421 | 1,000 |
12. Mount Alverstone
Mount Alverstone, also known as Boundary Peak 180, is a prominent peak in the Saint Elias Mountains, straddling the border between Alaska and Yukon. With an elevation of 15,299 feet (4,664 meters), it shares a large massif with the higher Mount Hubbard to the south and the slightly lower Mount Kennedy to the east.
The mountain is difficult to climb because of its rocky, steep profile and glaciers. Rising as one of the tallest peaks in Alaska, it attracts seasoned mountaineers looking for adventure in this remote area.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Alverstone | Alaska/Yukon Border | 15,299 | 3,000 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Hunter | Denali National Park, AK | 14,573 | 3,000 |
11. Mount Whitney
Mount Whitney, standing at 14,505 feet (4,421 meters), is the highest mountain in the contiguous United States and is located in the Sierra Nevada range of California. Its steep eastern slope rises dramatically from Owens Valley, showcasing impressive granite cliffs and a rugged landscape.
The top provides amazing panoramic views of the surrounding forest on a quiet level, table-like surface. Popular for hikers and climbers, Mount Whitney is a well-known landmark among the highest mountains in the USA.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Whitney | Sierra Nevada, California | 14,505 | 10,080 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Foraker | Alaska, USA | 17,400 | 7,200 |
| Mount Hunter | Denali National Park, AK | 14,573 | 3,000 |
10. Mount Hunter
Mount Hunter, also known as Begguya, is a striking mountain located in Denali National Park, approximately eight miles south of Denali, the highest peak in North America. Standing at 14,573 feet (4,472 meters), it is the third-highest major peak in the Alaska Range.
The mountain has a convoluted summit form with steep, corniced peaks and a sizable glacier plateau. Attracting experienced mountaineers, Mount Hunter is regarded as one of the toughest 14,000-foot climbs in North America, well-known for its technical climbing difficulties.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Hunter | Denali National Park, AK | 14,573 | 3,000 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Foraker | Alaska, USA | 17,400 | 7,200 |
| Mount Bona | Alaska, USA | 16,550 | 4,000 |
9. Mount Bear
Mount Bear is a prominent, glaciated peak in the Saint Elias Mountains of Alaska, standing at 14,831 feet (4,519 meters). Situated within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, it lies about 4 miles west of the Yukon border.
The mountain has steep, icy slopes; the Klutlan Glacier runs north from its southwest side while the Barnard Glacier flows. Mount Bear, known for its remote location, is less often ascended than other mountains, so it is a special place for adventurous mountaineers wishing to see the highest peaks in Alaska.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Bear | Alaska/Yukon Border | 14,831 | 5,000 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Fairweather | Alaska/British Columbia | 15,325 | 12,995 |
8. Mount Hubbard
Rising at 14,511 feet (4,557 meters), Mount Hubbard is a notable mountain in the Saint Elias Range situated on the boundary between Alaska and Yukon. It is a difficult climb because of its rocky, glaciated topography and high cliffs.
The mountain is situated within Kluane National Park in Canada and Wrangell–St. Elias National Park in the United States.
Its striking appearance and significant prominence contribute to its status as one of the tallest peaks in Alaska and the highest mountains in the USA.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Hubbard | Alaska/Yukon Border | 14,951 | 5,000 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Bona | Alaska, USA | 16,550 | 4,000 |
7. Mount Fairweather
Mount Fairweather, located on the Canada–United States border, rises to an elevation of 15,325 feet (4,671 meters) and is one of the highest peaks in British Columbia.
These mountaineers are seeking to conquer one of the tallest peaks in North America. Rising steeply and with stunning vertical relief, this magnificent peak is well-known in the Fairweather Range of the Saint Elias Mountains. Fairweather, despite its name, is renowned for severe weather that often clouds the peak from view. Attracting skilled mountaineers aiming to summit one of the highest mountains in North America, is a difficult climb.
6. Mount Sanford
Mount Sanford, a massive shield volcano in the Wrangell Volcanic Field of eastern Alaska, stands as the sixth highest mountain in the United States and the third tallest volcano behind Mount Bona and Mount Blackburn.
Rising to 16,236 feet (4,949 meters), its unusual bulbous peak is primarily covered in perpetual snow and ice, making study and observation impossible. With its steep south slope reaching nearly 8,000 feet in about one mile, the volcano claims among the greatest slopes in North America.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Sanford | Alaska, USA | 16,236 | 11,486 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 600 |
5. Mount Blackburn
Mount Blackburn, standing at 16,390 feet (4,996 meters), is the highest peak in the Wrangell Mountains of Alaska and the fifth-highest mountain in the United States. This massive shield volcano is the second-tallest volcano in the US after Mount Bona.
Its dramatic massif features steep faces dropping 8,000 to 11,000 feet, with the west face plunging over 11,000 feet across just 4 miles. The mountain is blanketed in ice fields and glaciers, including the 45-mile Kennicott Glacier.
Mount Blackburn, while the 12th highest peak in North America, sees few ascents because of its isolated position, severe climate, and difficult technical climbing.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Blackburn | Alaska, USA | 16,390 | 11,640 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 600 |
4. Mount Bona
Mount Bona, reaching an elevation of approximately 16,550 feet (5,050 meters), is one of the prominent peaks in the Saint Elias Mountains of eastern Alaska. It is the fourth-highest independent peak in the United States and ranks as either the tenth or eleventh highest in North America.
This ice-covered stratovolcano’s remarkable look comes from its peak, which is often covered in snow and glaciers. Experienced mountaineers especially seek out the peak because of its difficult climbing conditions.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Bona | Alaska, USA | 16,550 | 4,000 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Foraker | Alaska, USA | 17,400 | 7,200 |
3. Mount Foraker
Mount Foraker, at 17,400 feet (5,304 meters), is the second-highest peak in the Alaska Range and the third highest in the United States. Located in Denali National Park, it rises dramatically above the Kahiltna Glacier, approximately 14 miles southwest of Denali.
Foraker is well-known for its rough, rocky terrain; its two main peaks have a somewhat higher north peak. Mountaineers find great difficulty on the mountain’s difficult climbing paths and strong weather conditions, confirming its rank among the highest mountains in the USA and the tallest peaks in Alaska.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Foraker | Alaska, USA | 17,400 | 7,200 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Saint Elias | Yukon/Alaska Border | 18,008 | 10,000 |
2. Mount Saint Elias
Mount Saint Elias, standing at 18,008 feet (5,489 meters), is the second-highest mountain in both Canada and the United States, located on the border of Yukon and Alaska.
Its remarkable pyramidal form and high vertical relief of about 18,000 feet from the fjord below define its presence very powerfully. Comparatively to the highest mountains in the USA and the tallest peaks in Alaska, the mountain is a component of the St. Elias Range and is known for its difficult climbing conditions, strong weather, and breathtaking glacier landscapes.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Saint Elias | Yukon/Alaska Border | 18,008 | 10,000 |
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Logan | Yukon, Canada | 19,551 | 6,000 |
| Mount Whitney | California, USA | 14,505 | 600 |
1. Denali is the highest mountain in the USA
Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, is the highest mountain in North America, standing at 20,310 feet (6,190 meters) above sea level. It is renowned for its impressive vertical rise of 18,000 feet (5,500 meters) from base to peak, making it the tallest mountain in the United States.
Located in the Alaska Range, Denali is part of Denali National Park and Preserve. Its challenging climate and steep terrain attract climbers globally, solidifying its status among the tallest peaks in the world.
| Mountain Name | Location | Elevation (feet) | Prominence (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denali | Alaska, USA | 20,310 | 20,194 |
| Mount Everest | Nepal/Tibet | 29,032 | 29,029 |
| Aconcagua | Argentina | 22,841 | 23,000 |
| Mount Foraker | Alaska, USA | 17,400 | 4,000 |
Conclusion
There are many outstanding high mountain peaks in the United States; some rise beyond 14,000 feet. The top 20 highest mountains in the US are mostly found in Alaska, including the Wrangell Mountains, Alaska Range, and Saint Elias Mountains.
These high peaks provide amazing vistas, difficult climbs, and a window into the rough beauty of the American wilderness. From the great Denali to the far-off Mount Augusta, every mountain offers unique characteristics and allure for those who journey to the highest parts of the US.
FAQ ON Top 20 highest mountains in the US
1. What is the highest mountain in the United States?
The highest mountain in the United States is Denali, located in Alaska, with an elevation of 20,310 feet (6,194 meters).2. How many of the highest mountains are located in Alaska?
Alaska is home to the majority of the highest mountains in the U.S., including all of the top seven peaks.3. What are the second and third highest mountains in the U.S.?
Mount Saint Elias is the second highest at 18,009 feet, followed by Mount Foraker at approximately 17,400 feet.4. Are these mountains open for climbing?
Yes, many of the highest mountains are open for climbing, but they require proper preparation, equipment, and sometimes permits.
Refer: Top 20 Highest Mountains in the U.S
- https://blog.batchgeo.com/highest-us-summits/ – This link provides a detailed overview of the top 200 highest summits in the U.S., with a focus on the top 10.
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_highest_major_summits_of_the_United_States – This Wikipedia page lists the highest major summits in the U.S., which is used as a reference in the article.
- https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/highest-mountains-in-the-united-states/ – This article from GeeksforGeeks provides a list of the top 7 highest mountains in the U.S., all located in Alaska.
- https://bestdiplomats.org/highest-mountains-in-the-usa/ – This article from Best Diplomats explores the top 15 highest mountains in the U.S., including detailed descriptions of each peak.
Additional relevant links:
- https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/denali-the-highest-mountain-in-north-america.htm – This National Park Service article provides more information on Denali, the highest mountain in the U.S. and North America.
- https://www.summitpost.org/mount-whitney/150172 – This page on SummitPost offers detailed information on Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous U.S.
- https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/mountaineering.html – This REI expert advice page covers essential mountaineering skills and gear for climbing high peaks.
- https://www.climbing.com/news/the-7-highest-mountains-in-the-lower-48/ – This Climbing.com article focuses on the highest mountains in the contiguous United States.
- https://www.americansouthwest.net/nevada/boundary-peak/index.html – This page provides information on Boundary Peak, the highest mountain in Nevada.
- https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/the-highest-peaks-in-the-lower-48.htm – This National Park Service article discusses the highest peaks in the contiguous United States.
