The planet is full of incredible peaks, with each continent hosting its own contenders. Long used as a symbol for challenges and overcoming, these natural wonders are solemn and majestic. You don’t have to be an avid hiker to appreciate their beauty, but are there any you would dare to climb?
1. Mount Fuji, Japan
This Japanese pinnacle is picture-perfect and is the country’s tallest peak. Mount Fuji was a pilgrimage site for centuries, but summit hikes remain popular among travelers and locals alike. Several famous Edo Period artworks also capture its iconic shape.
2. Kirkjufell, Iceland
Kirkjufell can thank Game of Thrones for its prominence. Indeed, after appearing in the sixth and seventh seasons, it quickly gained popularity as a tourist attraction. Covered in lush greenery with Kirkjufellsfoss falls cascading at its feet, it has become the most photographed peak on the island.
3. Mount Everest, China-Nepal
Our third contender needs no introduction. After all, it is the planet’s highest peak. Standing at an elevation of over 29,000 ft, Everest calls the border between Nepal and China home. Approximately 800 brave souls tackle the climb each year.
4. Matterhorn, Switzerland-Italy
Straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, the Matterhorn is the Alps’ most well-known treasure. It sits in isolation like a jagged tooth piercing the heavens and is a natural magnet for adventurers with its near-symmetrical pyramid shape.
5. Mount Rainier, USA
Mount Rainier – also known as Tahoma, which means “the mother of waters” among the native Puyallup tribe – is a glacial peak in the Pacific Northwest. It is also home to the largest volcanic-glacier cave system in the world, while the nature that encircles the peak is divine.
6. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Kilimanjaro also has a revered reputation as the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing peak in the world. Despite stretching a mighty 19,000 ft, the trail is not so steep. It is mainly the altitude that poses a challenge to climbers.
7. Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Now, here is a mountain with a surplus of personality. But did you know Peru has several rainbow mountains? The postcard-worthy peak that most tourists flock to is Vinicunca, but we opted for Palccoyo when we went.
This less-frequented alternative gets barely any visitors. It is a much easier hike and has three distinct rainbow mountains within the same range.
8. Mount Bromo, Indonesia
Mount Bromo makes for a stunning and fairly easy ascent. From the top, you have a spectacular vantage over Java’s Tengger Caldera National Park. Most travelers time their summit for sunrise. Just take a glimpse at photos online, and you will understand why.
9. Mount Cook, New Zealand
The national park that hosts this gem is nothing short of glorious. Towering peaks, glaciers, and snowfields make this an alpine wonderland of the purest kind. As for the mountain itself, it also goes by Aoraki. The ancient name comes from an old Maori legend.
10. Cotopaxi, Ecuador
An active stratovolcano of the Andes Mountains, Cotopaxi lies south of the capital, Quito. Meanwhile, the surrounding wilderness that circles the peak is home to vast Limpiopungo Lake, tantalizing trails, and enchanting valleys.
11. K2, Pakistan-China
Alongside its recognition as the world’s second tallest summit, K2 is considered the world’s toughest mountain. Compared to Mount Everest’s 1% death rate, this challenging peak defeats roughly 25% of its climbers!
12. Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia
Nestled on the luscious island of Borneo, Mount Kinabalu holds a special place in my heart. I may not have climbed it (yet), but I spent several mornings gazing upon it during an 18-day jungle trek. Statistically, it is also the third tallest peak of any island on Earth.
13. Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka
Another common bucket list placeholder, Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka, has a sacred story. It is believed to be the site where Adam arrived following his expulsion from Paradise. Each year, pilgrims and travelers continue to embark upon this holy mountain.
14. Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina
This Argentinian jewel is tucked within the iconic Patagonian region, close to El Chalten Village and Viedma Lake. The rugged summit is a sight for sore eyes, with a backdrop adorned by further peaks and glacial waters.
15. Castle Mountain, Canada
Castle Mountain is based in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Perched ominously over spruce and fir trees, it sits among the beauty of Banff National Park. The splendid summit gets its name from its unique shape, which resembles the form of a turreted fortress.
To gaze upon the mountain in all its glory, follow the Castle Lookout Trail. This 4-mile path loops around to a scenic viewpoint, from which you can also take in the surrounding park.
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