The United States is home to some of the most awe-inspiring peaks in the world, with the 50 highest mountains showcasing the dramatic diversity of its geological landscape. Dominated by the towering giants of Alaska’s Alaska Range and Saint Elias Mountains, such as Denali at 20,310 feet, and complemented by the rugged fourteeners of Colorado’s Rockies and California’s Sierra Nevada, these summits represent a blend of raw natural beauty, cultural significance, and mountaineering challenges. From active volcanoes to ancient granite spires, each peak tells a story of tectonic forces, Native American heritage, and human exploration, drawing adventurers and nature enthusiasts to their slopes for breathtaking vistas and unparalleled experiences.
- Denali – 20,310 feet (Alaska)
Denali, located in the Alaska Range within Denali National Park, is the highest peak in North America. Known as “The Tall One” in the native Koyukon Athabascan language, it was renamed from Mount McKinley in 2015. Its massive 18,000-foot rise from base to summit surpasses even Mount Everest’s vertical gain. Denali’s extreme weather, with temperatures dropping to -94°F, and its 45-mile-long glaciers make it a formidable challenge. Approximately 1,200 climbers attempt its summit annually, with a 50-60% success rate. Its Wickersham Wall, a 14,000-foot face, is one of the world’s grandest.
2. Mount Saint Elias – 18,008 feet (Alaska/Yukon)
Straddling the Alaska-Yukon border in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Mount Saint Elias is the second-highest peak in the U.S. and Canada. Rising dramatically 10 miles from Icy Bay, it’s renowned for its long ski runs, attracting adventurers since its first ascent in 1897 by the Duke of Abruzzi’s team. Its Tlingit name, Yahtse-tah-shah, reflects its cultural significance. The mountain’s proximity to the Gulf of Alaska brings harsh storms, making climbs rare but rewarding with views of vast glaciers.
3. Mount Foraker – 17,400 feet (Alaska)
Mount Foraker, the third-highest U.S. peak, lies in Denali National Park, named “Sultana” (wife of Denali) by native peoples. Its 17,400-foot summit, first climbed in 1934, towers over the Kahiltna Glacier. Known for its rugged terrain, Foraker sees few ascents due to its remoteness and severe weather. The mountain’s dramatic rise and proximity to Denali make it a striking feature of the Alaska Range, with climbers often training here for larger expeditions.
4. Mount Bona – 16,550 feet (Alaska)
Mount Bona, in the Saint Elias Mountains, is the fourth-highest U.S. peak and the country’s tallest volcano, last active in 847 AD. Located in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, its 16,550-foot summit is a training ground for Denali aspirants due to its high-altitude routes. First climbed in 1930, Bona’s east ridge offers access to Mount Churchill’s peak. Its ice-covered slopes and remoteness deter frequent ascents, but the views of Mount Logan are spectacular.
5. Mount Blackburn – 16,390 feet (Alaska)
The highest peak in the Wrangell Mountains, Mount Blackburn stands at 16,390 feet in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. A dormant volcano with two peaks, its western summit is the tallest. Harsh weather from the nearby Gulf of Alaska limits climbs, with fewer than 50 attempts in recent decades. First summited in 1912 by Dora Keen and George Handy, its icefields feed the Kennicott Glacier, making it a vital ecological feature.
6. Mount Sanford – 16,237 feet (Alaska)
Mount Sanford, a shield volcano in the Wrangell Mountains, reaches 16,237 feet and is one of the highest Quaternary volcanoes in the U.S. Last active thousands of years ago, its ice-covered summit sees few climbers due to its remoteness near the Copper River. First climbed in 1938, Sanford is also known for the tragic 1948 crash of Northwest Airlines Flight 4422, with wreckage found decades later. Its serene isolation defines its allure.
7. Mount Fairweather – 15,325 feet (Alaska/British Columbia)
Mount Fairweather, ironically named by Captain James Cook for pleasant weather, stands at 15,325 feet on the Alaska-British Columbia border in Glacier Bay National Park. First climbed in 1931, its summit offers views of the Pacific Ocean, just 15 miles away. Part of the Saint Elias Range, its glaciers and unpredictable storms make ascents challenging, with the most recent recorded climb in 2011. It’s also British Columbia’s highest peak.
8. Mount Hubbard – 14,951 feet (Alaska/Yukon)Mount
Hubbard, rising 14,951 feet in the Saint Elias Mountains, straddles the Alaska-Yukon border. Named after Gardiner Hubbard, first president of the National Geographic Society, it was first summited in 1951. Its three summits, including Alverstone and Kennedy, and proximity to the Hubbard Glacier make it a striking feature. The mountain’s steep routes and remoteness limit climbs, but its views of Disenchantment Bay are breathtaking.
9. Mount Bear – 14,831 feet (Alaska)
Mount Bear, at 14,831 feet in the Saint Elias Mountains, lies just 4.7 miles from Canada in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. First climbed in 1959, its non-technical routes allow ski mountaineering, though its remoteness deters many. Feeding the Barnard and Klutlan Glaciers, Bear offers stunning views of Mount Logan and Mount Bona. Its 10,000-foot drop to the Barnard Glacier is one of the steepest in the region.
10. Mount Hunter – 14,573 feet (Alaska)
Mount Hunter, or Begguya (“Denali’s Child”), stands at 14,573 feet in Denali National Park, 13 kilometers south of Denali. Known for its steep, technical routes, it’s one of North America’s most challenging climbs. First summited in 1954 by Fred Beckey and Henry Mehbohm, its North Summit is the primary peak. Despite its lower elevation, Hunter’s rugged reputation attracts elite mountaineers seeking a formidable challenge.
11. Mount Whitney – 14,505 feet (California) #1 in the lower 48
Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous U.S. at 14,505 feet, lies in California’s Sierra Nevada near Sequoia National Park. Named for geologist Josiah Whitney, it was first climbed in 1873. A permit is required for its summit, accessible via the John Muir Trail or Whitney Portal. Its granite slopes and proximity to Death Valley’s Badwater Basin (85 miles away) make it a geological marvel.
Mount Alverstone – 14,500 feet (Alaska/Yukon)
Mount Alverstone, at 14,500 feet, is part of the Saint Elias Mountains on the Alaska-Yukon border. Named after a British jurist, it forms the highest point of the Alaska-British Columbia boundary. First climbed in 1951, its steep, glaciated slopes and unpredictable weather make it a difficult ascent. Alverstone’s location near Mount Hubbard and its role in glacial systems add to its remote grandeur.
Mount Elbert – 14,440 feet (Colorado)
Mount Elbert, at 14,440 feet, is Colorado’s highest peak and the tallest in the Rocky Mountains. Located in the Sawatch Range, it’s named for Samuel Elbert, a former governor. Its non-technical trails make it a popular first “fourteener” for hikers, with routes from Twin Lakes offering scenic beauty. Wildlife like lynx and elk roam its slopes, enhancing its ecological significance.
Website: https://www.14ers.com/route.php?route=elbe1
Mount Massive – 14,428 feet (Colorado)
Mount Massive, in Colorado’s Sawatch Range, reaches 14,428 feet and is the third-highest peak in the contiguous U.S. Named for its vast summit plateau, it covers 340 square miles and hosts Massive Glacier. First explored by John C. Fremont in 1845, its five summits above 14,000 feet attract hikers and climbers. Its Ute heritage adds cultural depth to its natural splendor.
Mount Harvard – 14,420 feet (Colorado)
Mount Harvard, at 14,420 feet in Colorado’s Collegiate Peaks, is named for Harvard University by 1869 surveyors. Part of the Sawatch Range, its trails through alpine meadows and rocky ridges draw hikers. Its summit offers panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. Less technical than other fourteeners, Harvard remains a challenging but accessible climb, rich in geological history.
Mount Rainier – 14,411 feet (Washington)
Mount Rainier, a 14,411-foot active stratovolcano in Washington’s Cascade Range, is the tallest volcano in the contiguous U.S. Named for Admiral Peter Rainier, it last erupted in the 19th century. Its glaciers feed regional rivers, and its extreme weather, including a record 93.5 feet of snow in 1971-1972, makes it a dangerous climb. Popular for hiking, it’s a Pacific Ring of Fire icon.
Mount Rainier website: https://www.nps.gov/mora
Mount Williamson – 14,379 feet (California)
Mount Williamson, at 14,379 feet in California’s Sierra Nevada, is the state’s second-highest peak. Known for its challenging ascent through rugged terrain, it’s less frequented than Mount Whitney. Part of the John Muir Wilderness, its granite faces and remote trails offer solitude and stunning views. First climbed in 1884, it remains a test for experienced mountaineers.
Blanca Peak – 14,351 feet (Colorado)
Blanca Peak, rising 14,351 feet in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Range, contrasts sharply with the flat San Luis Valley. Its summit, accessed via a tough four-wheel-drive route to Lake Como, requires scrambling. First climbed in 1874, its rugged beauty and isolation make it a favorite for adventurers seeking dramatic views of the southern Rockies.
La Plata Peak – 14,343 feet (Colorado)
La Plata Peak, at 14,343 feet in Colorado’s Sawatch Range, is named for the Spanish word for silver, reflecting its mining history. Its standard routes, like the Northwest Ridge, are popular for their moderate challenge and wildflower-filled meadows. First summited in the 19th century, it offers sweeping views of Mount Elbert and the Collegiate Peaks.
Uncompahgre Peak – 14,321 feet (Colorado)
Uncompahgre Peak, at 14,321 feet, is the highest in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. Named for a Ute word meaning “red water spring,” its broad summit plateau is accessible via non-technical trails. First climbed in 1874, its volcanic geology and panoramic views of the San Juans make it a standout, with trails passing through vibrant alpine basins.
Crestone Peak – 14,300 feet (Colorado)
Crestone Peak, at 14,300 feet in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Range, is known for its dramatic, jagged profile. Sacred to local Native American tribes, its technical routes, like the South Face, challenge climbers. First summited in 1916, its proximity to Crestone Needle and views of the Great Sand Dunes add mystique to this spiritual landmark.
Mount Lincoln – 14,293 feet (Colorado)
Mount Lincoln, at 14,293 feet in Colorado’s Mosquito Range, is named for President Abraham Lincoln. Its accessibility via the Alma or Leadville trails makes it a popular fourteener, with non-technical routes. First climbed in the 19th century, its mining history and open vistas of the Tenmile Range draw hikers seeking a rewarding day trip.
Grays Peak – 14,278 feet (Colorado)
Grays Peak, at 14,278 feet in Colorado’s Front Range, is the highest point on the Continental Divide. Named for botanist Asa Gray, its straightforward trail from Stevens Gulch is a favorite for first-time fourteener climbers. First summited in 1861, its twin, Torreys Peak, is often climbed in tandem, offering expansive views of the Rockies.
Mount Antero – 14,276 feet (Colorado)
Mount Antero, at 14,276 feet in Colorado’s Sawatch Range, is named for Chief Antero of the Uintah Ute tribe. Known for its gemstone deposits, particularly aquamarine, its four-wheel-drive road to 13,000 feet makes it unique among fourteeners. First climbed in 1877, its high-altitude mining history and views of the Arkansas Valley attract adventurers.
Torreys Peak – 14,275 feet (Colorado)
Torreys Peak, at 14,275 feet in Colorado’s Front Range, is Grays Peak’s twin, often climbed together due to their proximity. Named for botanist John Torrey, its trail from Loveland Pass offers a shorter but steep ascent. First summited in 1861, its rocky summit and views of Denver’s skyline make it a popular hike for urban adventurers.
Castle Peak – 14,265 feet (Colorado)
Castle Peak, at 14,265 feet in Colorado’s Elk Mountains, is named for its fortress-like appearance. Its non-technical routes through Conundrum Basin are popular, though loose rock poses challenges. First climbed in 1873, its volcanic origins and views of the Maroon Bells make it a scenic gem, with hot springs nearby for post-hike relaxation.
Quandary Peak – 14,265 feet (Colorado)
Quandary Peak, at 14,265 feet in Colorado’s Tenmile Range, is one of the easiest fourteeners, with a gentle trail from Blue Lakes. Named for a mining term, its accessibility near Breckenridge draws crowds. First summited in the 19th century, its mountain goat sightings and views of the Mosquito Range make it a beginner-friendly classic.
Mount Evans – 14,265 feet (Colorado)
Mount Evans, at 14,265 feet in Colorado’s Front Range, is unique for its drivable road to 14,130 feet, one of the highest paved roads in North America. Named for Governor John Evans, its summit trail offers panoramic views of the Great Plains. First climbed in 1863, its accessibility and marmot-filled slopes make it a family-friendly destination.
Longs Peak – 14,259 feet (Colorado)
Longs Peak, at 14,259 feet in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park, is a challenging fourteener known for its Diamond Face, a sheer 1,000-foot cliff. Named for explorer Stephen Long, its Keyhole Route is technical and exposed. First climbed in 1868 by John Wesley Powell, its rugged beauty and wildlife, like bighorn sheep, draw experienced climbers.
Mount Wilson – 14,252 feet (Colorado)
Mount Wilson, at 14,252 feet in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, is a technical fourteener with loose rock and steep ridges. Named for surveyor A.D. Wilson, its challenging Southwest Ridge route tests climbers. First summited in 1874, its remote location and views of the Lizard Head Wilderness make it a rewarding, less-traveled peak.
White Mountain Peak – 14,252 feet (California)
White Mountain Peak, at 14,252 feet in California’s White Mountains, is the state’s third-highest peak. Its gentle, 8-mile road-like trail makes it the easiest California fourteener, though high altitude challenges hikers. First climbed in 1864, its bristlecone pine forests, among the oldest trees on Earth, and stark desert views add unique appeal.
Mount Shasta – 14,179 feet (California)
Mount Shasta, a 14,179-foot stratovolcano in California’s Cascade Range, is a sacred site for Native American tribes. Last erupting in 1786, its glaciated slopes require mountaineering gear. First climbed in 1854, its Avalanche Gulch route is popular, offering views of the Klamath Mountains. Shasta’s spiritual significance and snow-covered beauty make it iconic.
Mount Princeton – 14,204 feet (Colorado)
Mount Princeton, at 14,204 feet in Colorado’s Sawatch Range, is named for Princeton University by 19th-century surveyors. Its standard route through alpine meadows and scree fields is moderately challenging. First climbed in 1877, its hot springs at the base and views of the Collegiate Peaks make it a favorite for hikers seeking relaxation post-climb.
Mount Yale – 14,200 feet (Colorado)
Mount Yale, at 14,200 feet in Colorado’s Collegiate Peaks, is named for Yale University. Its Northwest Ridge trail, with scrambling sections, offers a rewarding climb through forests and tundra. First summited in 1869, its accessibility and views of Mount Harvard make it a popular Sawatch Range fourteener, rich in mining history.
Mount Bross – 14,178 feet (Colorado)
Mount Bross, at 14,178 feet in Colorado’s Mosquito Range, is named for miner William Bross. Often climbed with Mount Lincoln and Mount Democrat, its gentle slopes are accessible but cross private land, requiring permission. First climbed in the 19th century, its open summit and mining relics offer a glimpse into Colorado’s past.
Kit Carson Peak – 14,171 feet (Colorado)
Kit Carson Peak, at 14,171 feet in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Range, honors the famed frontiersman. Its technical routes, like the Outward Bound Couloir, demand experience. First summited in 1860, its proximity to Challenger Point and dramatic cliffs make it a striking peak, with views of the San Luis Valley below.
Maroon Peak – 14,163 feet (Colorado)
Maroon Peak, at 14,163 feet in Colorado’s Elk Mountains, is one of the Maroon Bells, famed for its stunning red-hued cliffs. Its technical, loose-rock routes make it one of Colorado’s most dangerous fourteeners. First climbed in 1909, its beauty draws photographers, but climbers face significant risks on its exposed ridges.
Tabeguache Peak – 14,162 feet (Colorado)
Tabeguache Peak, at 14,162 feet in Colorado’s Sawatch Range, is named for a Ute tribe leader. Often climbed with Mount Antero, its non-technical trails wind through alpine meadows. First summited in 1877, its remote location and views of the Arkansas River Valley make it a peaceful, less-crowded fourteener.
Mount Oxford – 14,160 feet (Colorado)
Mount Oxford, at 14,160 feet in Colorado’s Collegiate Peaks, is typically climbed with Mount Belford via a connecting ridge. Named for Oxford University, its trails through pine forests and tundra are moderately challenging. First climbed in 1869, its summit offers views of the Sawatch Range, making it a rewarding day hike.
Mount Sneffels – 14,158 feet (Colorado)
Mount Sneffels, at 14,158 feet in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, is named for an Icelandic volcano from Jules Verne’s novel. Its Lavender Col route, with a steep gully, is a classic climb. First summited in 1874, its rugged beauty and views of the Telluride area make it a favorite for mountaineers.
Mount Democrat – 14,155 feet (Colorado)
Mount Democrat, at 14,155 feet in Colorado’s Mosquito Range, is named for the Democratic Party by miners. Often climbed with Mount Lincoln and Mount Bross, its short but steep trail is popular. First climbed in the 19th century, its mining history and open views of South Park make it a quick, rewarding ascent.
Capitol Peak – 14,137 feet (Colorado)
Capitol Peak, at 14,137 feet in Colorado’s Elk Mountains, is one of the most technical fourteeners, with its knife-edge ridge posing serious risks. Named for its resemblance to the U.S. Capitol, its Northeast Ridge route was first climbed in 1909. Its remote location and stunning views of Snowmass Mountain draw elite climbers.
Pikes Peak – 14,115 feet (Colorado)
Pikes Peak, at 14,115 feet in Colorado’s Front Range, is one of the most famous fourteeners, inspiring “America the Beautiful.” Its Barr Trail or cog railway offers access, with a road to the summit. First climbed in 1820, its accessibility, views of Colorado Springs, and annual marathon make it a cultural landmark.
Snowmass Mountain – 14,099 feet (Colorado)
Snowmass Mountain, at 14,099 feet in Colorado’s Elk Mountains, is named for its permanent snowfields. Its technical West Slope route, with loose rock and glaciers, challenges climbers. First summited in 1873, its remote location and views of the Maroon Bells make it a hidden gem for experienced mountaineers.
Windom Peak – 14,093 feet (Colorado)
Windom Peak, at 14,093 feet in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, is part of the Chicago Basin trio with Eolus and Sunlight Peaks. Named for Senator William Windom, its non-technical routes via Needle Creek are scenic but remote. First climbed in 1874, its alpine meadows and bighorn sheep sightings enhance its wild appeal.
Mount Eolus – 14,090 feet (Colorado)
Mount Eolus, at 14,090 feet in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, is named for the Greek god of wind. Part of the Chicago Basin, its technical Northeast Ridge requires scrambling. First summited in 1874, its remote access via the Durango-Silverton train and views of the Weminuche Wilderness make it a unique adventure.
Challenger Point – 14,087 feet (Colorado)
Challenger Point, at 14,087 feet in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Range, honors the Space Shuttle Challenger crew. Often climbed with Kit Carson Peak, its non-technical routes are steep but manageable. First climbed in 1930, its poignant name and views of the San Luis Valley make it a meaningful destination.
Mount Columbia – 14,077 feet (Colorado)
Mount Columbia, at 14,077 feet in Colorado’s Collegiate Peaks, is named for Columbia University. Its West Slopes trail, with loose scree, is challenging but non-technical. First summited in 1869, its proximity to Mount Harvard and views of the Sawatch Range make it a popular, though strenuous, hike.
Missouri Mountain – 14,074 feet (Colorado)
Missouri Mountain, at 14,074 feet in Colorado’s Sawatch Range, is named for the Missouri River by miners. Its Northwest Ridge trail offers a scenic, moderately technical climb through alpine basins. First climbed in 1877, its wildflower meadows and views of the Collegiate Peaks make it a rewarding, less-crowded fourteener.
Humboldt Peak – 14,070 feet (Colorado)
Humboldt Peak, at 14,070 feet in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Range, is named for naturalist Alexander von Humboldt. Its West Ridge trail, with gentle slopes, is one of the easier fourteeners. First climbed in 1862, its proximity to Crestone Peak and views of the San Luis Valley make it a scenic, approachable