The United States is home to some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring high points, from Alaska’s frozen giants to the sunlit crests of the Rockies and beyond. These summits challenge climbers, inspire hikers, and captivate sightseers with their raw beauty. Here’s a fresh take on five of America’s highest elevations, packed with their unique draws and practical tips for your next adventure.
1. Denali, Alaska (20,310 feet) Denali, the crown of the Alaska Range, is North America’s tallest peak. Its name, meaning “the High One” in Koyukon, suits its towering presence. Climbers face a brutal 20-day slog through ice and storms, with only 40% summiting. For non-climbers, Denali National Park’s Wonder Lake offers postcard-worthy views. Visit in June for longer days, but brace for frigid winds. Climbers need permits and rigorous training; check Alaska Mountaineering School for guided trips.
2. Mount Bona, Alaska (16,550 feet) A lesser-known titan in the Saint Elias Mountains, Mount Bona is a volcanic behemoth draped in glaciers. Its remote location and technical ice routes make it a serious climber’s quest, with few attempts each year. Sightseers can glimpse it via flightseeing tours from McCarthy, near Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. July is prime for clearer skies, but pack for subzero conditions. Only experienced teams with glacier gear should attempt an ascent.
3. Longs Peak, Colorado (14,259 feet) The monarch of Colorado’s Front Range, Longs Peak is a Rocky Mountain classic. Its Keyhole Route, a 15-mile round-trip, blends hiking and scrambling but demands respect—falls are common. Hikers love the views from Chasm Lake, even if they don’t summit. July to September offers snow-free trails, but start before dawn to avoid afternoon storms. Estes Park is a great base; pack water and layers for sudden weather shifts.
4. Humphreys Peak, Arizona (12,633 feet) Arizona’s highest point, Humphreys Peak, rises above Flagstaff in the San Francisco Peaks. This 10-mile round-trip hike through alpine meadows and scree is strenuous but non-technical, making it a favorite for fit hikers. The summit offers views of the Grand Canyon on clear days. Late summer avoids snow, but monsoon storms can strike—check forecasts. Flagstaff’s craft breweries make a perfect post-hike stop; bring trekking poles for stability.
5. Wheeler Peak, New Mexico (13,161 feet) New Mexico’s tallest peak, Wheeler Peak, sits in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Taos. The 8-mile Williams Lake Trail is a moderate ascent with stunning vistas of alpine basins. Summer is ideal, though snow lingers into June—microspikes help. The trailhead’s high altitude (10,200 feet) demands acclimatization. Taos Ski Valley offers nearby lodging; respect the sacred land, as it’s tied to Taos Pueblo traditions.
These peaks are more than heights—they’re gateways to adventure and reflection. Whether you’re summiting or sightseeing, plan ahead, pack smart, and honor the land. Which peak will you explore next?
