12 Most Beautiful Mountains in the US for Nature Lovers

When it comes to stunning natural landscapes, the United States has it all. The US is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with towering waterfalls and lush forests, pristine beaches, and towering mountain peaks. However, while America’s beautiful beaches and vast national parks are lovely, the nation’s breathtaking peaks take the crown.

From Mount Denali, the highest summit in America, to the uniquely shaped Half Dome, there are countless mountains to visit. To learn more about the impressive mountains the United States offers, we’ve compiled a list of 12 beautiful mountains. These mountains have been selected because you must see them in person to appreciate their beauty truly.

Table of Contents

Mount Denali, Alaska

Must-Visit American Landscapes for Stunning Photography Denali National Park, Alaska — © evenfh / Adobe Stock

Let’s start with Mount Denali in Alaska. At 20,310 feet (6,190 meters), Mount Denali is the highest peak in North America. Its summit is topped by snow all year round, and its reflection in Reflection Pond is a sight to behold. Another great place to view the mountain is Talkeetna Riverfront Park.

Previously known as Mount McKinley, Denali was returned to its native name in 2016. In the indigenous languages, Denali stands for “The Tall One.” Quite unbelievably, from its base, Mount Denali is almost one mile (1.6 kilometers) taller than Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.

Half Dome, California

Half Dome is a fascinating quartz monzonite batholith located at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park. It’s named after its unique shape. One side of the mountain is a sheer cliff face, while the others are round and smooth, making the mountain look like a dome that’s been cut in half.

The Ahwahnechee people called the mountain “Tis-sa-ack,” which means cleft rock. Half Dome is 8,839 feet (2,694 meters) tall and is one of the most recognizable peaks in the United States. For centuries, climbers have traveled to the mountain to reach the peak. Climber Greg Anderson first ascended the mountain in 1875.

El Capitán, California

Another outstanding mountain standing tall above Yosemite National Park in California is El Capitán. This icon of the United States can be found above the western side of Yosemite Valley, surrounded by picturesque forests and wildflower meadows.

A haven for climbers, El Capitán stands at 7,572 feet (2,308 meters) tall and features a vertical sheer granite face. Even experienced climbers take up to six days to reach the mountain’s peak. Some even use a cot-like platform to sleep on El Capitán’s cliff face. If you’d prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, El Capitán Meadow offers panoramic views straight up El Capitán and an excellent view of Cathedral Rocks.

Baring Mountain, Washington

Baring Mountain in the Cascade Range is a postcard-perfect peak standing 6,127 feet (1,868 meters) tall. Despite its two steep peaks, Baring Mountain is only the third steepest mountain in Washington. However, it’s arguably the most beautiful.

Snow-capped throughout the year, this mountain’s double peak is also challenging to climb. Its sheer north face, which rivals some of the steep walls in Yosemite, has gone years without ascents. The landscape around the mountain is impressive, too, featuring large lakes, dense forests, and other enormous mountains with sharp and steep peaks.

Maroon Bells, Colorado

Like the Baring Mountain, Maroon Bells offers a buy-one-get-one-free deal on beautiful peaks. Separated by less than half a mile (0.5 kilometers), the two Maroon Bells peaks are called Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, and they both look spectacular. These gorgeous peaks are located in the Elk Mountains on the border between Gunnison County and Pitkin County.

The two jagged peaks are similar in height, sitting around the 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) mark. Climbing both peaks is possible, but the best views of the mountains can be found at Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Here, you’ll be spoiled with unparalleled views of the mountains, the surrounding forest, and a beautiful lake.

Mount Foraker, Alaska

Most Beautiful Mountains in the US Mount Borah, Idaho — © Larson755 / Adobe Stock

It would be rude not to include another Alaskan giant on our list, so here’s Mount Foraker. Often referred to as “Denali’s wife,” this beautiful snow-capped mountain is only 14 miles (23 kilometers) from Denali. It is also the second-highest peak in the Alaskan Range, measuring 17,400 feet (5,304 meters) tall.

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Despite its impressive size and beauty, few climbers reach Mount Foraker’s rocky peak. Clearly, the lure of the mountain’s husband is too enticing for most climbers. You can observe Mount Foraker and the Alaska Range from the Denali View Pullout at Mile 13 of the spur road.

Mount Borah, Idaho

Most Beautiful Mountains in the US Mount Borah — © Larson755 / Adobe Stock

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Mount Borah, known as ‘Beauty Peak,’ is famed for its rugged terrain and challenging hiking trails. Dominating the Idaho landscape, Mount Borah’s peak stands at 12,662 feet (3,859 meters), making it the highest mountain in the state. The mountain takes its name from William Borah, a famous Idaho politician and state senator.

Mount Borah is one of the “Nine Peaks” in Idaho, a group of nine mountains above 12,000 feet (3,657 meters). As expected, this makes the region one of the best places in the US for hiking, climbing, and landscape photography. The standard route to the top of Mount Borah is 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) long, with an elevation gain of more than 5,000 feet (1,524 meters).

Mount Sneffels, Colorado

At 14,150 feet (4,315 meters) tall, Mount Sneffels is the highest summit in Colorado’s Sneffels Range. Situated in the Rocky Mountains of North America, this peak sits in the wilderness of Uncompahgre National Forest, surrounded by lush meadows, dense forests, and alpine lakes.

One of the most photographed places in Colorado, Mount Sneffels’ picturesque peak is a big hit with photographers, hikers, and mountaineers alike. While the peak looks excellent from every angle, it looks particularly impressive from the western side. From this side, the mountain has a unique appearance, often compared to a volcano crater. During your trip to Mount Sneffels, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, too, as the area around the mountain is home to elk, deer, wolves, and grizzly bears.

Mount Mitchell, North Carolina

Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River in North Carolina’s Black Mountains. First measured by science professor Elisha Mitchell, hence the name, in 1835, it stands at 6,684 feet (2,037 meters) tall. Mount Mitchell has a less dramatic peak than the other mountains on our list.

Relatively flat, this mountain is so special because of the dense spruce-fir forest that covers it. This forest type can only be found at high elevations in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. It creates a stunning scene, perfect for landscape photography. Furthermore, the summit features a sub-alpine environment with rocky terrains, windswept trees, and rare bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for the Red Crossbill and northern saw-whet owl.

Mount Rainier, Washington

Located 59 miles (95 kilometers) southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier is one of the most iconic mountains in America. It’s found in the heart of Mount Rainier National Park and belongs to the Cascade Range. This mind-blowing stratovolcano is much loved for its postcard-perfect snowy peak that stands proudly above lush forests and vibrant wildflower meadows.

Mount Rainier is 14,409 feet (4,392 meters) high, so you won’t struggle to find a viewpoint offering scenic views of its peak. In fact, more than 130 hiking trails surrounding the mountain offer beautiful views. The 1.7-mile (2.7-kilometer) Alta Vista Trail is a relaxed trail that offers spectacular views.

Grand Teton, Wyoming

The penultimate US mountain we have for you is Grand Teton in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. The Teton Range is extraordinary, but Grand Teton steals the show. A popular mountaineering destination, the Teton Range’s highest peak is 13,770 feet (4,197 meters) tall. It has a jagged and rocky peak, and the beautiful Teton Glacier sits below its north face.

Surrounded by dense forest, pristine lakes, and Wyoming wildlife as well, it’s no surprise Grand Teton is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking is the most popular activity at Grand Teton, but skiing, climbing, and wildlife watching are also popular. Alternatively, you can take things easy and simply admire the snowy peak from one of the many colorful meadows.

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

You can find the final mountain on our list on the island of Hawaii. This inactive shield volcano makes our list for two reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly beautiful. It has a classic volcano dome covered in snow throughout the year and a summit dotted with mysterious tiny cinder and pumice cones.

Secondly, Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world. Mount Everest might be the highest, but Mauna Kea takes the crowd as the world’s tallest. Unfortunately for Mauna Kea, though, the majority of it’s underwater. From its underwater base to its peak, this mountain is an astounding 33,476 feet (10,203 meters) tall. Sadly, only 13,803 feet (4,207 meters) is above sea level.