The Tallest Peak in the U.S. and 7 Other Noteworthy Competitors

Though Asia hosts the majority of the world’s tallest peaks, like Mount Everest and the Himalayas, the United States boasts some of the most awe-inspiring mountain ranges around.

Ever wondered which is the tallest mountain in the U.S.? Keep reading to uncover this mighty peak and explore other natural wonders the country has to offer.

1. Denali: Denali National Park, Alaska

Once referred to as Mount McKinley, Denali reigns as the highest peak in North America, attracting numerous climbers to Denali National Park and Preserve each year to conquer its northern and southern summits.

The National Geographic Society reports that the mountain's peak rises to 20,310 feet (6,191 meters) above sea level, making Denali approximately two-thirds the height of Mount Everest.

Denali National Park is located in southeastern Alaska, just northeast of Anchorage. Beyond its towering peaks, the park shelters some of America's most untamed wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, and moose.

Even if scaling Denali isn't in your plans, the park offers a wealth of natural beauty to explore and enjoy within its expansive preserve.

2. Mount Saint Elias: Saint Elias Range, Alaska

To the Indigenous K'ineix Kwaan, Mount Saint Elias holds great spiritual significance, and they have named it Was'eitushaa.

The highest peak of Saint Elias rises 18,000 feet (5,486 meters), commanding a view over the gulf of Alaska. This towering presence has served as a crucial landmark for sailors throughout the years, allowing them to spot the mountain from afar long before other landmasses appear on the horizon.

Among other significant peaks in the Saint Elias Mountains are Mount Bear and Mount Bona, both of which soar above 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) at their highest points.

3. Mount Foraker: Alaska Range, Alaska

Situated just 8 miles (12.9 km) from Mount McKinley in Denali National Park, Mount Foraker offers a great challenge for seasoned climbers seeking a more "manageable" ascent.

That said, scaling Foraker is far from a leisurely endeavor. With its summit towering at 17,400 feet (5,304 meters), even expert climbers require 22 days to complete a successful climb with a professional team.

4. Mount Blackburn: Wrangell Mountains, Alaska

Mount Blackburn, a dormant volcano, is distinguished by its two prominent peaks that rise from the east and west sides. The western peak is the tallest, reaching an elevation of 16,390 feet (4,996 meters) above sea level.

Climbing to the summit of this peak typically takes about 15 days to complete both ascent and descent, but expeditions are infrequent due to the Wrangell Mountains being known for some of the coldest and harshest weather in North America.

5. Mount Whitney: Sierra Nevada Mountains, California

This is the first of the tallest mountains situated outside Alaska, making it the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Mount Whitney is located at the edge of Sequoia National Park in Northern California, standing at 14,494 feet (4,418 meters) above some of the world's oldest and largest trees.

6. Mount Elbert: Sawatch Range, Colorado

Mount Elbert, located just west of Pikes Peak, is the tallest peak in the vast Rocky Mountains and ranks as one of the highest major summits in the contiguous United States.

With its summit standing at 14,433 feet (4,399 meters) above sea level, Mount Elbert is slightly shorter than Mount Whitney. The presence of paved roads makes reaching its peak much quicker and easier than many other towering mountains.

7. Mount Rainier: Cascade Range, Washington

Mount Rainier stands as the tallest peak in the Pacific Northwest and is also the highest volcano in the continental United States.

At 14,410 feet (4,392 meters), its summit is blanketed by glaciers, with ice falling from them to nourish rivers across Washington. The surrounding forests are renowned for hiking and camping, offering a home to over 280 species of wildlife.

8. Blanca Peak: Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Colorado

Blanca Peak towers dramatically over Colorado's San Luis Valley, a rare flat region of the state. Its towering summit reaches 14,351 feet (4,374 meters).

Climbing Blanca Peak begins with several miles of off-road driving near Lake Como, following one of the most challenging four-wheeling routes in the country. The remainder of the ascent must be completed on foot.