The United States has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, from the low coastal plains of Florida to the towering peaks of Alaska.
Every state has its own highest natural point, some are massive mountains that attract climbers from around the globe, while others are quiet hills tucked within farmland.
Below is a complete list of the highest points in each U.S. state, along with their names and elevations.
Table: Highest Elevation Points by State
| State | Highest Point | Highest Elevation (ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Cheaha Mountain | 2,405 |
| Alaska | Denali (Mt. McKinley) | 20,237 |
| Arizona | Humphreys Peak | 12,633 |
| Arkansas | Magazine Mountain | 2,753 |
| California | Mount Whitney | 14,494 |
| Colorado | Mount Elbert | 14,433 |
| Connecticut | Mount Frissell (South slope) | 2,380 |
| Delaware | Ebright Azimuth | 448 |
| Florida | Britton Hill | 345 |
| Georgia | Brasstown Bald | 4,784 |
| Hawaii | Mauna Kea | 13,796 |
| Idaho | Borah Peak | 12,662 |
| Illinois | Charles Mound | 1,235 |
| Indiana | Hoosier Hill | 1,257 |
| Iowa | Hawkeye Point | 1,670 |
| Kansas | Mount Sunflower | 4,039 |
| Kentucky | Black Mountain | 4,139 |
| Louisiana | Driskill Mountain | 535 |
| Maine | Mount Katahdin | 5,267 |
| Maryland | Backbone Mountain | 3,360 |
| Massachusetts | Mount Greylock | 3,487 |
| Michigan | Mount Arvon | 1,979 |
| Minnesota | Eagle Mountain | 2,301 |
| Mississippi | Woodall Mountain | 806 |
| Missouri | Taum Sauk Mountain | 1,772 |
| Montana | Granite Peak | 12,799 |
| Nebraska | Panorama Point | 5,424 |
| Nevada | Boundary Peak | 13,140 |
| New Hampshire | Mount Washington | 6,288 |
| New Jersey | High Point | 1,803 |
| New Mexico | Wheeler Peak | 13,161 |
| New York | Mount Marcy | 5,344 |
| North Carolina | Mount Mitchell | 6,684 |
| North Dakota | White Butte | 3,506 |
| Ohio | Campbell Hill | 1,549 |
| Oklahoma | Black Mesa | 4,973 |
| Oregon | Mount Hood | 11,239 |
| Pennsylvania | Mount Davis | 3,213 |
| Rhode Island | Jerimoth Hill | 812 |
| South Carolina | Sassafras Mountain | 3,560 |
| South Dakota | Harney Peak (Black Elk Peak) | 7,242 |
| Tennessee | Clingmans Dome | 6,643 |
| Texas | Guadalupe Peak | 8,749 |
| Utah | Kings Peak | 13,528 |
| Vermont | Mount Mansfield | 4,393 |
| Virginia | Mount Rogers | 5,729 |
| Washington | Mount Rainier | 14,410 |
| West Virginia | Spruce Knob | 4,861 |
| Wisconsin | Timms Hill | 1,951 |
| Wyoming | Gannett Peak | 13,804 |
Notable State Highlights
1. Alaska – Denali (20,237 ft)
Denali is not only Alaska’s highest peak but also the tallest mountain in North America. Its massive elevation and remote location make it one of the most challenging climbs in the world.
2. California – Mount Whitney (14,494 ft)
Mount Whitney stands as the highest point in the contiguous United States. It’s located in the Sierra Nevada range and is a popular hiking destination, offering a direct trail from Whitney Portal.
3. Florida – Britton Hill (345 ft)
Florida’s highest natural point might surprise many — Britton Hill is only 345 feet above sea level, located in Walton County. It’s more of a gentle rise than a peak.
4. Colorado – Mount Elbert (14,433 ft)
Mount Elbert is the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains and the second-highest in the contiguous U.S., known for its relatively accessible hiking route despite the altitude.
5. Hawaii – Mauna Kea (13,796 ft)
Mauna Kea’s summit is home to some of the world’s best astronomical observatories. When measured from its base on the ocean floor, it’s technically the tallest mountain on Earth.
Interesting Facts
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Most Elevated State: Alaska holds the top spot with Denali’s towering height.
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Lowest High Point: Delaware’s Ebright Azimuth, at only 448 feet, is the lowest state high point.
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Mountain States: Colorado and California each have over 50 peaks above 14,000 feet.
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Non-Mountain States: States like Florida, Louisiana, and Delaware have high points that are barely noticeable rises.
SEE ALSO: All U.S. States Elevations: Highest, Lowest & Average
Why Elevation Matters
Elevation affects everything from climate and vegetation to population density.
Higher regions tend to have cooler temperatures and less oxygen, while low-lying areas are often warmer and more humid.
Understanding the elevation of each state helps explain its unique weather patterns, ecosystems, and even lifestyle differences.
Conclusion
From Denali’s snow-covered summit to Britton Hill’s subtle slope, the highest points in each U.S. state tell the story of America’s geographical variety.
Whether you’re a climber chasing state high points or simply fascinated by landscapes, this list captures the immense diversity of the country’s terrain.