Ever stared at a map and thought, “Wow, these mountains look like shark fins poking up from the earth?” Me too. And after years of sweaty backpacking, shaky knees, and way too many granola bars, I’ve got some wild tales and up-to-date tips about the top 5 mountains in North America. If you love trekking, camping, or just daydreaming about standing on a summit yelling “I did it!”, this one’s for you.
1. Denali (Alaska): The Big Boss
Denali is the king. At 20,310 feet, it’s taller than any other peak on the continent and honestly, it makes my knees shake just typing that number. I still remember my first attempt—didn’t make it, got stuck in a snowstorm, ate cold beans for dinner. But the view? Unreal. Denali rises so steeply that folks say its base-to-peak climb is even more brutal than Mount Everest’s (no, really).
- Height: 20,310 ft / 6,190 m
- Location: Alaska Range, Alaska
- Trend: The number of climbers dropped slightly in 2024, but the National Park Service reported a surge in winter camping—maybe because social media is full of epic sunrise shots.
- Fun fact: Temperatures can drop to -94°F. If you think that’s cold, try taking off your gloves for a selfie.
If you’re trekking Denali, expect glaciers stretching for miles. The weather changes faster than my mood after coffee. You need permits, and the rangers don’t mess around. Trust me, pack extra socks and check your gear twice.
2. Mount Logan (Yukon): The Canadian Giant
Mount Logan is Canada’s biggest and, let’s be real, it’s a showoff. Located in the Saint Elias Mountains, Logan stands at 19,541 feet. I camped near Logan last fall—mosquitoes tried to eat me alive, but the sunrise made it worth every itchy bite. The mountain is still growing (about 0.35 mm each year, thanks to tectonic shenanigans).
- Height: 19,541 ft / 5,956 m
- Location: Saint Elias Mountains, Yukon
- Recent news: Kluane National Park upgraded its backcountry safety system in 2024. Now you can check avalanche risks by text—so futuristic!
- Fun fact: Logan has a base so massive, it’s got 12 peaks on one mountain. I got lost twice and only found my way by following marmots.
Logan is a snow-lover’s dream but also a logistical headache. Getting there involves bush planes and, sometimes, snowmobiles. If you love wild places and hate crowds, Logan’s your best shot.
3. Pico de Orizaba (Mexico): Volcano With Style
Pico de Orizaba is Mexico’s tallest and a favorite for climbers who want a taste of volcanic drama. At 18,491 feet, it’s an actual volcano, which means the summit sometimes smells a bit… sulfur-y. Last month, I hiked the lower slopes with a local guide who told me legends about spirits guarding the mountain. Not sure about spirits, but the tacos after the hike were magical.
- Height: 18,491 ft / 5,636 m
- Location: Border of Puebla and Veracruz, Mexico
- 2025 update: Mexican authorities added extra trail markings this year and new emergency huts. Good news for those of us who wander off trail (me, every time).
- Fun fact: Orizaba is part of the “Seven Summits” challenge for North America. Some climbers do it in one day—don’t ask me how.
The climb is usually non-technical, but icy sections can be tricky. Spanish helps, but mostly you need strong legs and a love for the bizarre.
4. Mount Saint Elias (Alaska/Yukon): The Border Beast
Mount Saint Elias straddles the US and Canada, just to keep things interesting. At 18,008 feet, it’s the second tallest in both countries (depending who you ask). The weather? Pure chaos. I tried to photograph the sunrise here once, but my camera froze solid—true story.
- Height: 18,008 ft / 5,489 m
- Location: Saint Elias Mountains, Alaska/Yukon border
- Current trend: More climbers are using drones for mapping. I saw three last summer, buzzing around like angry bees.
- Fun fact: The vertical relief from glacier to summit is one of the greatest in the world. Imagine climbing straight out of an ice field—that’s Saint Elias for you.
Camping here means snow, ice, and the occasional bear print. If you go, bring lots of batteries. Cold eats them alive.
5. Popocatépetl (Mexico): The Smoking Mountain
Popocatépetl is probably the most unpredictable of the bunch. It’s still erupting, making it the only mountain on this list that could literally wake up and make headlines. At 17,749 feet, it’s Mexico’s second highest, but number one for dramatic Instagram stories. I trekked here last spring, and the ground shook a little—my heart did too.
- Height: 17,749 ft / 5,410 m
- Location: Central Mexico, near Mexico City
- 2025 update: Authorities closed some routes due to ash activity, but the nearby Iztaccíhuatl trails are open and just as stunning.
- Fun fact: Locals call it “El Popo.” It had a major eruption in 2024, so always check the volcano status before planning your trip!
I recommend camping at a safe distance and bringing a dust mask. Ash storms are real, and they don’t care about your fancy hiking boots.
Quick Table: Top 5 Mountains Snapshot
| Mountain | Country | Height (ft) | Type | Current Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denali | USA | 20,310 | Glaciated | Winter camping up, climber permits steady |
| Mount Logan | Canada | 19,541 | Non-volcanic | Safety tech upgrades |
| Pico de Orizaba | Mexico | 18,491 | Volcano | Trail improvements |
| Mount Saint Elias | USA/Canada | 18,008 | Glaciated | Drone mapping |
| Popocatépetl | Mexico | 17,749 | Active volcano | Route closures, eruptions |
FAQ
- Which mountain is hardest for beginners? Denali. The cold alone is enough to keep most folks in the parking lot.
- Can you camp on all these mountains? Sort of. Some have restrictions (like Popocatépetl during eruptions), but Logan and Denali have classic backcountry camping—just bring bear spray.
- Are there any easy trails? Pico de Orizaba’s lower slopes are doable for strong hikers; Denali and Saint Elias are for pros.
- What gear do I need? Layers, waterproof boots, and emergency chocolate. Never skimp on chocolate.
Conclusion: Your Next Mountain Adventure Awaits
So there you have it: my honest, sometimes silly, and always up-to-date guide to the top 5 mountains in North America. Whether you’re dreaming about climbing Denali or just want to snap a photo of Popocatépetl from a safe distance, these peaks will blow your mind (and probably your budget for gear).
If you take one thing away, let it be this: respect the mountain, pack smart, and never trust a weather forecast in Alaska. Seriously.
- Plan for wild weather
- Check recent news for closures and eruptions
- Take a friend, or at least a good story to tell when you get back
Now get out there. Your adventure’s waiting for you, and maybe a marmot or two.