America has plenty of mountains. From the snowy peaks of the Rockies to the rolling Appalachians, the U.S. has one of the most diverse topographies of any country. Makes sense, since it’s technically a massive continent, too.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Global Mountain Explorer report, being ‘mountainous’ isn’t just about tall peaks. It’s also about slopes, elevation, and the ruggedness of a landscape. Basically, any relief greater than 200 meters is considered a mountainous area.
You might think all the best mountains are out West, but the East Coast has its fair share of mountainous states, too. However, I would say that the towering Sierra Nevada and Cascades do dominate the scene.
Whether you’re into skiing, hiking, or just appreciating the world-class views, these are the most mountainous states in America:
14. Wyoming (47%)
With 47% of its landscape classified as mountainous, Wyoming is home to the majestic Teton Range and a sizable portion of the Rockies. It’s also the least populous state of all 50, with most of the state’s western part comprising the Rocky Mountains.
The state’s highest peak is Gannett Peak, which reaches 13804 feet. The lowest point of elevation is at Bella Fourche, at 3125 feet. Between these two points, the state boasts the iconic Grand Teton National Park near Jackson Hole – a skiing and hiking paradise.
Wyoming is also the point where the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains meet, so it makes sense that it is the 14th most mountainous state in the U.S.
13. Colorado (54,3%)
I was surprised to find Colorado so low on this list. What I thought might have been one of the most mountainous states is actually only the 13th most mountainous. Sure, Colorado is home to the bulk of the Rockies, but much of the state is actually relatively flat and desert-like.
Nevertheless, Colorado is a mountain lover’s paradise. The state has 58 peaks that surpass the 14000 feet mark – affectionately called the ‘Fourteeners.’ Climbing one of these is a rite of passage here.
And the mountains bring more than just rugged hiking trails and world-class ski slopes. Colorado is packed with alpine lakes, dense forests, and plenty of wildlife.
12. West Virginia (56,7%)
West Virginia is one of the few East Coast states on this list. It’s pretty much synonymous with beautiful mountains. Tucked away in the heart of the Appalachians, it is a top destination for Mid-West and East Coast locals looking for a change of scenery.
The rolling hills and forested peaks make it a hotspot for hikers. The Monongahela National Forest is one of the best places for a hike, while the New River Gorge National Park is the better option for climbing and river rafting.
As you can imagine, this part of the Appalachians is spectacular during peak fall foliage.
11. Alaska (57,0%)
Alaska has the tallest and most mountains of any state, but taking its massive size into account, it sits far below the average mountainous state. Its big claim to fame is being home to Denali, North America’s highest peak. But in any mountainous area, this state feels larger and more impressive in every way.
The Alaska Range dominates the landscape, mostly sweeping along the southern part of the state. In winter, Alaska transforms into a wintery playground for skiers, snowmobilers, and those chasing the elusive northern lights. When summer rolls around, the snow gives way to glacier trekking, fishing, and kayaking on the pristine icy fjords.
10. Arizona (62,6%)
When you think of Arizona, you probably picture red rocks and stark deserts. Surprisingly, this state is loaded with mountains – 62.6% of the landscape is considered mountainous, to be precise.
Arizona is home to the San Francisco Range and Humphreys Peak, the highest point in the state at 12637 feet. Arizona is even considered part of the Southern Rocky Mountains. Most of the highest mountains are just outside Flagstaff, offering plenty of hiking trails through incredibly unique volcanic terrain. Flagstaff alone is located at an elevation of 6910 feet, making it the highest city in the state.
9. Washington (68,6%)
Washington State has always had a reputation for adventure. In its impressive lineup of mountains, it boasts the 14410-foot-high active volcano called Mount Rainier, which looms over Seattle. This is a bucket list mountain for most hikers and mountaineers, with trails to suit all sorts of adventurers in the Mount Rainier National Park.
But Mount Rainier is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Cascade Range. Head north, and you’ll find the North Cascades. They’re often called the Alps of America for their dramatic peaks and craggy ridges.
On the state’s western side, the Olympic Mountains deliver unique landscapes, from misty subalpine meadows to glacier-capped peaks to moody beaches—all within Olympic National Park.
8. New Hampshire (73,3%)
New Hampshire might be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to mountains. Because of its small size, 73.3% of the state is technically classified as mountainous.
The White Mountains are the main players here, where rugged tree-lined peaks meet the classic charm of New England’s towns. At the heart of it all is Mount Washington, the Northeast’s tallest peak and a bit of a daredevil itself. Not only for its terrain but also for having some of the most extreme weather on earth.
For a less adrenaline-fueled adventure, the Franconia Notch State Park is a peaceful escape with Flume Gorge and Echo Lake as the major standouts.
7. Idaho (73,7%)
Idaho is sometimes called the ‘Gem State’ because just about every type of gemstone has been found here. And this is all thanks to the incredible mountain ranges that cover 73.7% of the state.
The main mountain range here is the Sawtooth Range, which really lives up to its name with jagged, rocky peaks. You’ll also find Hells Canyon here – a ten-mile-wide canyon along western Idaho, which forms part of the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
And then there is Sun Valley, one of the country’s first ski resorts, and a haven for winter sports and the odd celebrity sighting.
6. Utah (74,4%)
Utah is known for two things: mountains and salty inland lakes. And its mountains are straight out of a movie set. With the Wasatch Range framing Salt Lake City and the Uinta Mountains to its east, this state is an all-season mountain wonderland.
When winter comes, Utah is famous for having the ‘Greatest Snow on Earth,’ thanks to the snowfall at ski resorts like Park City, Deer Valley, and Snowbird. But summer is just as impressive, with the Big Cottonwood Canyon leading the way for hikes and climbing adventures.
5. Oregon (75,6%)
Oregon has its fair share of legendary mountains, and Mount Hood is the state’s crowning jewel. Year-round, you’ll find skiers, climbers, and hikers enjoying everything this rugged landscape has to offer. It’s so iconic it even makes an appearance on the state license plate.
The Cascade Range also cuts through the state, with volcanic peaks like the Three Sisters, Mount Bachelor, and Mount Jefferson boasting some stunning viewpoints. And we can’t forget about Crater Lake National Park, with its deep blue lake that shows the remnants of a historic volcano.
4. California (76,9%)
California might be all about beaches and coastline, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful mountains in the country. The Sierra Nevada range carves through the landscape from north to south. It includes some iconic spots like Yosemite National Park and the granite giants, aka – Half Dome, El Capitan, and Mount Whitney.
In Central California, Mount Whitney even holds the title of the tallest peak in the contiguous U.S. Head further north, and you’ll run into the volcanic beauty of Mount Shasta and the Lassen Volcanic National Park.
3. Nevada (83,0%)
Most people think Nevada is just a desert, but it surprises us with some of the most mountainous landscapes in America. The Sierra Nevada range brushes its western edge along its border with California. Then there are the Ruby Mountains and some smaller ranges like Wheeler Peak and Mount Jefferson, which crisscross the middle of the state.
Closer to Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon offers a striking contrast from the barren desert with its rugged cliffs and interesting rock formations. It’s this mix of desert and mountains that makes this place one of the most unique outdoor destinations in the U.S.
2. Vermont (87,5%)
Vermont is home to the famous Green Mountains, which run straight through the center of the state. In fact, the state itself is nicknamed the ‘Green Mountain State’ after this range.
This range is technically a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains, with beautiful hills, valleys, and rivers. Vermont’s lush forested mountains are a show-stopper during peak fall foliage. But when winter comes, the state transforms into a skier’s paradise, with resorts like Stowe and Killington drawing a large crowd of East Coast snow-seekers.
1. Hawaii (92.1%)
With 92.1% of its islands made up of hills and mountains, Hawaii takes the top spot as the most mountainous state in America. And it’s easy to see why. The islands are basically giant volcanoes rising out of the Pacific Ocean. Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island are two of the tallest peaks.
Hiking in Hawaii is like stepping into another dimension. It’s truly unlike anywhere else in the U.S. You can trek through lush jungles, across volcanic craters, and under stunning waterfalls. Maui’s Haleakala is the ultimate showstopper, delivering a sunrise experience like no other.
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