The first mountain I ever climbed wasn’t some epic, snow-covered peak in the Rockies. It was a smaller trail in New England that left me sweaty, out of breath, and totally hooked. Since then, I’ve hiked and climbed all over the US, from Colorado’s 14ers to desert ridges in Arizona, and I’ve realized something important: you don’t need to be an expert (or have fancy gear) to feel the thrill of standing on top of a mountain. Some of the most rewarding summits are actually the most approachable.
Over the past 10 years of exploring the outdoors, I’ve found certain peaks that are perfect for beginners…challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment, but safe and manageable for first-timers. From Connecticut’s Bear Mountain to Colorado’s Grays Peak, these 13 mountains prove that anyone can experience the rush of reaching the top.
Best Beginner Mountains to Climb in the US
Want to feel the rush of a summit without needing pro-level gear (or lungs of steel)? These beginner-friendly peaks across the US are the perfect mix of challenge and reward…big views, approachable trails, and bragging rights included.
- Best First Summit in New England: Bear Mountain, Connecticut
- Coolest Above-the-Treeline Trek: Mount Mansfield, Vermont
- Best Views Across Four States: Black Elk Peak, South Dakota
- Top Desert Challenge: Guadalupe Peak, Texas
- Easiest Family-Friendly Climb: Driskill Mountain, Louisiana
- Most Classic New England Hike: Mount Monadnock, New Hampshire
- Easiest 14er to Bag: Grays Peak, Colorado
- Tallest Beginner-Friendly Summit: Mount Elbert, Colorado
- Best National Forest Views: Mount Wrightson, Arizona
- Most Scenic Mining Country Trail: Red Mountain, Colorado
- Closest to a Big City: Mount Olympus, Utah
- Quick Summit with Big Payoff: Camelback Peak, Arizona
- Best Wildlife Spotting: Whiskey Mountain, Wyoming
If I were just getting started, I’d knock out Bear Mountain or Monadnock to get a feel for the climb, then level up to Grays Peak or even Mount Elbert once I was ready for a 14er. No matter which one you pick, these trails guarantee that unbeatable “on top of the world” feeling.
- Read also: My Favorite Mountains in the USA
1. Bear Mountain, Connecticut
Bear Mountain is honestly one of the best places to start your mountain climbing journey in the Northeast. I’ve done this hike multiple times, and it never gets old. At 2,316 feet, it’s Connecticut’s highest peak and you can actually see the Manhattan skyline on clear days, which is pretty awesome for a beginner climb.
The main trail is a 6.1-mile loop that gains about 1,676 feet, and most people finish it in 3-4 hours. The steepest part hits you in the first mile and a half, but don’t let that scare you off – it’s way more manageable than it looks. There’s this rock pile at the summit that you can scramble up for the best views, and honestly, that’s where the magic happens. You’ll see the Hudson Highlands, Hudson River, and if you’re lucky, those Manhattan skyscrapers in the distance.
Park at the Mount Riga State Park lot off Route 41, but get there early because it fills up fast on weekends. The parking lot only fits about 20 cars, so I usually arrive by 8 AM to snag a spot. The trail is well-marked with blue blazes, and you’ll want to go counterclockwise to tackle the scrambles going up rather than down. No permits required, and you can climb year-round, though April through October gives you the best weather. Bring microspikes in winter because things get icy pretty quickly up there.
- Read next: Amazing Things to Do in Connecticut
2. Mount Mansfield, Vermont
Mount Mansfield is Vermont’s tallest peak at 4,393 feet, and honestly, it’s way more accessible for beginners than you’d think. The Sunset Ridge Trail is your best bet – it’s 3.3 miles to the summit with 2,600 feet of elevation gain. I actually prefer this route because you spend a good chunk of time above treeline, walking along this ridgeline with killer views the whole way up.
The coolest thing about Mount Mansfield is how the summit ridge looks like a human face when you see it from the side. You’ve got the Forehead, Nose, Upper Lip, Lower Lip, and Chin (which is the actual summit). It’s one of only three places in Vermont where you can find Arctic tundra, so stick to the marked trails to protect the fragile plants.
If you’re new to hiking, give yourself 4-5 hours for the round trip. The views from up there are absolutely incredible – you can see Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and even parts of Canada on clear days. Start at Underhill State Park where there’s parking, bathrooms, and water. There’s a $4 per person fee (cash only) to hike here. The best time to go is late spring through early fall, and definitely avoid mud season from mid-April to Memorial Day when trails are closed. I’ve done this climb in all sorts of weather, and the scrambles on Maple Ridge are sketchy when wet, so check conditions first.
- Read next: Best Vermont Mountains for Adventure
3. Black Elk Peak, South Dakota
Black Elk Peak is seriously underrated as a beginner mountain. At 7,242 feet, it’s South Dakota‘s highest point and also the highest peak between the Rocky Mountains and the Pyrenees in France, which is pretty cool bragging rights. What makes this mountain special is the incredible Black Elk Wilderness setting and that awesome stone fire tower at the summit.
The standard route from Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park is about 7.1 miles round trip with 1,469 feet of elevation gain. I did the loop version, and it takes you past Cathedral Spires and Little Devil’s Tower, which are these amazing granite formations you can’t miss. The trail’s well-maintained and not too technical, making it perfect for beginners who want a taste of mountain climbing without the intimidation factor.
You’ll need to pay the Custer State Park entrance fee (around $15 for non-residents in 2025), but parking at Sylvan Lake is usually pretty good if you get there early. The fire tower at the summit was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938, and you can actually climb up inside it for even better views. The mountain was renamed from Harney Peak to Black Elk Peak in 2016 to honor the Lakota medicine man Black Elk. Best hiking months are May through October, and you might spot mountain goats, elk, or even black bears in the area.
- Read next: Places to Live in North America
- You may also like: Picture-Perfect Places in Nebraska
4. Guadalupe Peak, Texas
Guadalupe Peak in Texas is honestly one of the most challenging beginner mountains on this list, but it’s so worth it. At 8,751 feet, this is the highest point in Texas, and the views from the “Top of Texas” are absolutely unreal. The desert landscape around Guadalupe Mountains National Park creates this otherworldly hiking experience you won’t find anywhere else.
The trail is 8.4 miles round trip with a brutal 3,000 feet of elevation gain. I’m not gonna lie – this hike will kick your butt, especially the first mile and a half where you’re basically climbing switchback after switchback on rocky terrain. But once you get past that initial climb, the trail mellows out as it passes through this cool pine forest that somehow survives in the desert.
You’ll need to check in at the Pine Springs Visitor Center first, then drive to the Pine Springs Trailhead. Parking fills up early, so get there by 7 AM if possible. There’s no park entrance fee, but bring at least a gallon of water per person because there’s literally no water on the trail and temperatures can get crazy hot. The best hiking months are fall through spring when it’s not blazing hot. Summer hiking means starting at 4 AM to beat the heat. I actually saw sunrise from the summit once, and it was one of those moments that makes all the suffering worth it.
- Read next: Beautiful Spots in Texas
5. Driskill Mountain, Louisiana
Driskill Mountain might not look like much on paper at 535 feet, but it’s honestly the perfect confidence builder for new mountain climbers. Located in Bienville Parish, this is Louisiana’s highest point and it’s incredibly family-friendly. I brought my kids here once, and they absolutely loved it because it felt like a real mountain adventure without being scary.
The “hike” is more like a pleasant walk through Louisiana pine forests, and you can easily do it in under an hour. What’s cool is that despite the modest elevation, you still get these nice views of the surrounding forested landscape. The area around Driskill Mountain is actually part of a larger state forest system, so there are other trails to explore if you want to make a longer day of it.
Getting there is super easy – just follow the signs once you’re in the general area. There’s a small parking area and the trail is obvious. No permits, no fees, no drama. You can literally hike this year-round because Louisiana weather is pretty mild. It’s perfect for people who want to say they’ve climbed a state high point without committing to a major expedition. The trail is also wheelchair accessible in many sections, making it one of the most inclusive mountain experiences you’ll find. Honestly, if you’re just getting into hiking or want to introduce someone to the outdoors, this is where you start.
6. Mount Monadnock, New Hampshire
Mount Monadnock is like the perfect introduction to New Hampshire mountain climbing. At 3,165 feet, it’s not the tallest peak in the state, but it’s got this cool distinction of being one of the most climbed mountains in the world. The White Dot Trail is the most popular route, and I’ve done it probably a dozen times over the years.
The round trip is about 3.8 miles with 1,700 feet of elevation gain, which is totally manageable for beginners. What makes Monadnock special is that the summit is this big bald dome with 360-degree views. On clear days, you can see Boston, Mount Washington, and supposedly even Mount Greylock in Massachusetts. The trail gets pretty rocky near the top, and there are some fun scrambles over granite slabs.
Monadnock State Park charges a small entrance fee, and the main parking lot fills up on nice weekends, so get there early. The mountain is climbable year-round, but spring and fall are definitely the sweet spots for weather. Winter hiking here requires microspikes and some experience because the upper sections get icy. I actually prefer hiking it in late fall when the crowds thin out and you get these amazing views across all the fall foliage. There are several trail options, so you can mix things up if you become a regular like me.
- Read also: The Best Adventure Travel Destinations in 2025
- You may also like: Beautiful Hikes in New England
7. Grays Peak, Colorado
Grays Peak is hands down the best introduction to Colorado’s fourteeners (peaks over 14,000 feet). At 14,278 feet, it’s literally one of the easiest 14ers you can climb, which makes it perfect for beginners who want to experience high-altitude mountain climbing. The Stevens Gulch Trail is the standard route, and I was honestly surprised by how non-technical it is.
The hike is about 8 miles round trip with roughly 3,000 feet of elevation gain. The trail is basically a well-worn path the whole way up – no scrambling, no route-finding, just a steady climb through alpine terrain. What’s really cool is that you can often see mountain goats near the summit, and the views from the top include a bunch of other fourteeners in the Front Range.
Start at the Stevens Gulch Trailhead (about an hour from Denver), and definitely get an early start. I’m talking 5 AM early, especially in summer when afternoon thunderstorms are common above treeline. The altitude will definitely hit you if you’re not used to it, so take your time and drink tons of water. Best hiking months are July through September when the road is clear and weather is most stable. You can actually bag Torreys Peak (another fourteener) on the same hike if you’re feeling ambitious, but Grays alone is plenty satisfying for your first Colorado high-altitude experience.
- Read next: Scenic Mountains in Colorado
- You may also like: Must-Visit Places in the Rocky Mountains
8. Mount Elbert, Colorado
Mount Elbert is Colorado’s tallest peak at 14,440 feet, and I know that sounds intimidating, but it’s actually one of the most beginner-friendly fourteeners out there. The North Mount Elbert Trail is basically a long walk up a mountain – no technical climbing, no scary exposure, just a steady slog to the top.
The round trip is about 9.5 miles with 4,700 feet of elevation gain, so plan on 6-8 hours total. The trail starts in these beautiful aspen groves (incredible in fall), then climbs through evergreen forests before breaking into alpine terrain. The summit views are absolutely massive – you can see Mount Massive to the north and basically the entire Sawatch Range spread out around you.
Park at the North Mount Elbert Trailhead near Leadville (which is already at high altitude, so you’re starting at about 10,000 feet). The altitude thing is real here, so if you’re coming from sea level, maybe spend a day in Denver or Leadville to acclimatize. Start early because afternoon thunderstorms above treeline are no joke in summer. I usually hit the trail by 5 AM in peak season. The hiking season is basically July through September when snow clears, though I’ve done it in October with microspikes. Bring layers because it can be 70 degrees at the trailhead and 30 degrees with 40 mph winds at the summit.
- Read also: My Absolute Favorite Hiking Quotes
- You may also like: Lesser-Known Places in Colorado
9. Mount Wrightson, Arizona
Mount Wrightson in Arizona’s Coronado National Forest is this hidden gem that most people don’t know about. At 9,456 feet, it’s the highest peak in the Santa Rita Mountains, and the climate up there is completely different from the desert below. I was shocked by how green and forested it gets as you climb higher.
The Old Baldy Trail is the most popular route – about 11 miles round trip with 3,600 feet of elevation gain. It’s a steady climb through different ecosystems, starting in desert scrub and ending up in pine and fir forests. The summit has this old fire tower foundation and amazing views across southern Arizona and into Mexico. On clear days, you can see all the way to Tucson.
Start at the Madera Canyon trailhead where there’s decent parking and actually some nice amenities like picnic areas and restrooms. The area is known for incredible birdwatching, so bring binoculars if you’re into that. Best hiking months are October through April when desert temperatures are reasonable. Summer hiking is possible but start super early because it gets brutally hot in the lower elevations. I’ve done this hike in December and it was perfect – cool but not cold, crystal clear skies, and way fewer people. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it great for beginners who want to experience Arizona mountains beyond the typical desert hikes.
- Read next: Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots in Arizona
10. Red Mountain, Colorado
Red Mountain near Ouray is one of those Colorado peaks that gives you serious bang for your buck without being terrifying. The Idarado Legacy Trail is about 4.8 miles round trip and honestly feels more like a really scenic walk than a hardcore mountain climb. The views along this trail are absolutely insane – you’re basically hiking through Colorado postcard scenery the entire time.
What makes this hike special is the mining history scattered all over the mountain. You’ll see old equipment, mine shafts, and remnants from Colorado’s mining boom days. It’s like hiking through a museum, but with way better views. The trail gains about 1,600 feet, which is totally manageable for beginners, and the path is well-maintained and easy to follow.
The trailhead is right off US Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton, so it’s super accessible. Parking can be tricky on busy weekends because this area gets crowded with tourists driving the Million Dollar Highway. Best hiking months are June through October when the high-altitude roads are clear. I actually prefer September when the aspen trees are changing colors and the crowds have thinned out a bit. The scenery is just ridiculous – alpine lakes, 14,000-foot peaks all around you, and that classic Colorado mountain feeling without having to commit to a massive all-day epic.
- Read next: Jaw-Dropping Destinations in Colorado
11. Mount Olympus, Utah
Mount Olympus towers over Salt Lake City at 9,026 feet, and you literally can’t miss it when you’re down in the valley. This hike is kind of like the underdog of beginner climbs because it’s definitely challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The round trip is about 7 miles with over 4,000 feet of elevation gain, so it’s no joke, but the trail is clear and the views are unreal.
The hike starts steep and basically stays that way – you’re gaining about 1,000 feet per mile, which will definitely get your heart pumping. But the cool thing is that you get views of Salt Lake City and the Great Salt Lake pretty much the entire way up. There’s a bit of Class 3 scrambling near the summit that adds some adventure, but it’s totally doable if you take your time.
Park at the Mount Olympus Trailhead in the Wasatch Foothills, and get there early because this is a popular local hike and parking fills up. The trail is hikeable year-round, but I prefer spring and fall when temperatures are more reasonable. Summer can get really hot on the exposed sections, and winter requires microspikes or snowshoes depending on conditions. I did this hike with a bit of snow once and it was actually amazing – way fewer people and the views were even more dramatic. The summit gives you this incredible 360-degree panorama of the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake Valley, and if it’s clear, you can see for miles in every direction.
- Read next: Hidden Gems in Salt Lake City, Utah
- You may also like: Beautiful Places in Utah
12. Camelback Peak, Arizona
Camelback Peak is right in the heart of the Phoenix metro area, making it probably the most accessible mountain climb on this list. At 2,704 feet, it’s not super tall, but the Cholla Trail gains 1,250 feet in just 1.42 miles, which makes it a serious workout. I’ve done this hike probably 50 times because it’s so convenient when I’m in Phoenix.
The trail is basically straight up from the start – no gradual warm-up here. It’s all rocky terrain with some scrambling sections that keep things interesting. What’s cool is that despite being surrounded by suburbs, the summit feels surprisingly wild and the views across Paradise Valley and the Superstition Mountains are fantastic. On clear days, you can see all the way to Four Peaks and beyond.
Park at the Echo Canyon Trailhead off McDonald Drive, but seriously get there early. I’m talking 6 AM in winter, even earlier in summer. The parking lot is tiny and this hike is crazy popular with locals who use it for daily workouts. Summer hiking here is brutal – I’ve seen thermometers hit 115°F on the rock surfaces, so stick to early morning if you must hike in summer. Winter is actually perfect here with temps in the 60s-70s. The trail is open year-round and maintained by the city. It’s also a great training hike if you’re preparing for bigger mountains because the steep terrain and desert environment will definitely test your fitness level.
- Read my guide: The Scariest Hiking Trails Around the World
- You may also like: Exciting Things to Do in Phoenix at Night
13. Whiskey Mountain, Wyoming
Whiskey Mountain in Wyoming is this incredible hidden gem that most people have never heard of. The Torrey Creek Trail is about 5 miles round trip and offers a perfect introduction to Wyoming’s big mountain country. What makes this place special is that it’s home to the largest herd of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in North America, so there’s a decent chance you’ll see some wildlife.
The trail gains about 1,800 feet through classic Wyoming terrain – sagebrush, aspen groves, and eventually into alpine meadows with views of the Wind River Range. The hike isn’t too technical, just a steady climb on a well-marked trail. I was blown away by how remote and wild it feels up there, especially considering it’s not that far from Dubois.
Getting to the trailhead requires driving some dirt roads, but any decent car can make it. The area is pretty remote, so make sure you have a full tank of gas and let someone know your plans. Best hiking months are June through September when high-altitude access roads are clear. The Whiskey Mountain Wilderness allows primitive camping if you want to make it an overnight trip, and honestly, the stargazing out there is incredible. This is Wyoming mountain climbing at its most accessible – not super technical, but you still get that big mountain feeling and wilderness experience that makes the state so special.
