The worlds most beautiful mountains
Visit: Chile & Argentina | Canada | Colorado | Iceland | India | Dolomites | New Zealand | Patagonia | Peru | South Africa | Switzerland | Great Smokey Mountains | Hawaii | Japan |
The 15 Most Beautiful Mountains in the World
October 7, 2020
The word “Mountain” is one that invokes feelings of adventure, strength, happiness, and purity. Their beautiful shapes, ranges of size, and breathtaking scenery pulls people into a state where time slows down and awe takes over.
Which of these 15 beautiful mountains is on your bucket list?
1. Cerro Torre, Argentina/Chile
The Cerro Torre Mountain, also known as The Sunkissed Beauty, resides in South America and is a part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
It is also a part of a group of four mountains and holds the position of the tallest mountain out of the group. It’s jagged shape gives off a medieval or vikings feel. Thus incorporating that wonderful aura of timelessness.
If You Go…
It is important to keep in mind that Cerro Torre’s weather calls for cautious thinking and deep planning for any potential climbers.
The mountain’s location resides in an area that receives dangerous winds and high levels of rain. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring suitable clothes and gear for your trip while also remembering that even some of the most experienced climbers did not make it to the top.
2. Castle Mountain, Canada
This fortress shaped mountain takes one back into a time of Kings and Queens, while also being known as a landmark that sparked a great battle.
The name of this mountain was a subject of controversy as in 1946 Prime Minister Mackenzie King boldly changed it to “Mount Eisenhower,” causing mass objection which eventually led to the original name of “Castle Mountain” to be reinstated.
If You Go…
Castle Mountain is located within the Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies which allows for many different activities for you and your loved ones. Including:
- Exploring Banff National Park
- Camping at Castle Mountain Campground
- Relaxing at the Castle Mountain Chalets
- Hitting the slopes at The Castle Mountain Ski Resort
- Heading out to Lake Louise
This beautiful, pinterest-worthy, mountain is an easier trek as many visitors flock to the back side of the mountain for better access.
3. Maroon Bells, Colorado
Made up of the Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, The Maroon Bells mountaintops offer a lively atmosphere with its vivid photo-worthy color and wilderness environment.
Just below the mountain is its clear reflection within the stunning Maroon Lake. All together, this scenery is one that will make it almost impossible to put your camera down as every snapshot will take your breath away.
Wildlife?
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is filled with beautiful wildlife that attracts many visitors, hikers, and cyclists. Keep your eyes peeled for red foxes, bighorn sheep, bobcat, elk, moose, and black bears.
Nearby Attractions?
There are many hiking trails including Crater Lake Trail and the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail, a mile nature trail that circles the lake. The trails are dog friendly but must be kept on a leash. Also, there is an opportunity for camping and fishing at the Silver Bell Campground!
If You Go…
The mountain attracts heavy amounts of traffic, especially in the summer. Which is why we suggest taking the public bus (The Maroon Bells bus) to get to the Mountain and Wilderness area with ease as parking can be scarce and expensive.
Also, be prepared to adapt to the weather changes on the trails. Please dress appropriately, bring the necessary shoes and supplies, and enjoy all the aesthetically pleasing visuals Maroon Bells has to offer.
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4. Kirkjufell Mountain, Iceland
Kirkjufell is located in Grundarfjordur, Iceland and is easily one of the most photographed landmarks in the country.
It’s 463 metre peak coupled with it’s waterfall and extension into the ocean makes it a strikingly beautiful scene especially during a sunset. It’s so eye catching that it was used as a filming location for the popular tv show “Game of Thrones''!
If You Go…
Please note that in order to officially climb the mountain, you must be accompanied by an experienced guide due to safety precautions.
If not, you are allowed to peacefully walk along the trail at the base of the mountain enjoying it’s alluring surroundings. Also, for other opportunities for a different angle or view of the mountain, make sure to check out Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and the lake connected to the mountain.
Or stroll into the town of Grundarfjordur for some other fun outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and horseback riding!
5. The Himalayas, India
The Himalayas are a mountain range that is composed of the Greater Himalayas, the Lesser Himalayas, and the Outer Himalayas. Also, it contains the very famous Mount Everest while maintaining its rich and vast eco-regions.
Wildlife?
The Himalayas are surrounded by many subtropical forests along with rivers who are filled with a wide range of bird species, insects, plant life, and even sightings of endangered animals including tigers and elephants.
6. The Dolomites, Italy
These snow-dusted mountains have a lot of rich history, heritage, and beauty. Most enjoy the skiing in the winter but the summer is just as beautiful, and offers many outdoor adventures.
The mountains themselves are not the only picturesque worthy aspect of the area, the scenery along the hiking trails, bodies of water, the lovely resorts along with the towns and villages around the mountains are just as lovely.
If You Go…
Public transportation is offered and a great way to get around, but if you decide to drive in Italy you must acquire an International Driver’s Permit.
Also, there are so many villages and towns to choose from when it comes to choosing a place to stay that it can become overwhelming. So make sure that you choose a place that best fits your needs, gives you a suitable amount of opportunities to explore while giving you easy access to the Mountain.
More tips for hiking in the Dolomites from Travelstride expert Michelle Peters!
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7. Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand
Located in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Aoraki/Mount Cook is the highest mountain recorded in New Zealand.
The surroundings of this mountain include 19 smaller mountains and glaciers that cover 40% of the land including the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in the country.
These contrasting sides of nature placed together in one place is surely something that one would love to pull their camera out for.
Wildlife?
The park is filled with hundreds of different species of plants including the largest mountain buttercup Mount Cook lily, Ranunculus lyallii, in the world. Some of the most beautiful and uncommon insects thrive here along with many different species of birds.
One special bird is the mischievous mountain parrot kea along with one of New Zealand's rarest birds, the kakī/black stilt.
8. Mount Fitz Roy, Patagonia
This remarkable mountain catches the attention of many with it’s smoking volcano look due to its appearance of being a cloud-encased mountain. The visual is so convincing that the mountain’s original name was “Chaltén” which means “smoking mountain”.
Can You Climb Mount Fitz Roy?
There is a nice walk along trails that lead up to the base of the mountain, but once you reach the main viewpoint of Cerro Fitz Roy, you should take note of the sign alerting you of the upcoming difficulty that lies ahead.
If You Go…
Make sure to bring these essentials to maximize the enjoyment for your trip:
- A great pair of sturdy and reliable hiking boots
- A refillable water bottle (as there are stops along the trails that allow you to refill your water)
- A good Windbreaker or All Conditions Gear
- Sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
- A backpack or light bag filled with snacks, drinks, and food that you can carry along with you during your hike as the duration of each trail available is different and can last for many hours.
9. Vinicunca, Cusco Region, Peru
Montaña de Siete Colores (Mountain of Seven Colors), or Rainbow Mountain is certainly at the top of the list for beautiful mountain scenery.
The colors, created by the mixing of melted ice water and the minerals of the Earth, are most noticeable during morning (sunrise) and evening hours (sunset).
If You Go…
One of the most important things to note is that this mountain has a 5,200m altitude. So if you can, when you arrive, try to make sure that you are absolutely prepared to endure such pressure.
If not, it is perfectly fine to opt out for some alternative tours that still allow you to get a glance at the many different colors and scenic imagery. For example:
- Ausangate Trek (Which has the opportunity for a close encounter to the mountain)
- Palcoyo Mountain ( Which has a lower altitude and an opportunity to view other colorful scenery)
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10. Table Mountain, South Africa
This flat-top mountain is located in southwestern South Africa, overlooking Cape Town and Table Bay.
Previously named one of the 7 Wonders of The World, this rich bio-diversified mountain is considered to be one of the oldest mountains in the world. One photo is a captured moment of history.
If You Go…
The Table Mountain National Park is one of the most visited national parks. To accommodate, there are many provided including hiking , trail running, horse riding and mountain biking.
With over 350 trails leading to the top of the mountain, there are certainly more than enough opportunities for you to get that perfect shot.
11. Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps aka “The Magical Mountains” holds some of the highest recorded mountain peaks in all of Western Europe. Also, it includes the Matterhorn, one of the most photographed mountains in the world.
The astonishing scenery is enough to make anyone want to pack their bags and indulge themselves in the Alpine culture.
Nearby Attractions?
The Swiss Alps hold many breath-taking mountain trails to choose from so you have a plethora of options to make your trip worthwhile. (Make sure to check out the Swiss Alpine Club).
Also, there are many villages within the Swiss Alps that allow you to take part in the culture and traditions in the area while still being close to nature. The enchanting aura and uniqueness of the place will surely create memories you will never forget.
12. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
This subrange of the Appalachian Mountains got its name from the smokeyblue-colored mist that hangs above mountain peaks and valleys.
It is a beyond captivating group of landmarks that will mesmerize you, especially if you are lucky to catch a glimpse of the top at sunset with the blue mist merging with the reddish-orange colors coming illuminating the sky.
If You Go…
The area has lots of picture worthy aspects with its wildflowers, beautiful waterfalls, and charming wildlife.
So if you hurry, you should be able to get a glimpse of the national park’s large population of black bears as the area is one of the biggest protected areas in the eastern U.S. where wild black bears live.
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13. Mauna Kea, Hawaii
Mauna Kea is actually a dormant volcano that is known as the tallest mountain in the world. The mountain has a small lake along with a 6-mile trail to the summit and its observatories.
If You Go...
Remember Mauna Kea is also a very sacred place for the Hawaiian residents. The mountain is regarded as many things including a shrine for worship, as a home to the gods, and as the piko of Hawaiʻi Island.
14. Grand Teton Mountains, Wyoming
The Grand Teton mountains or ”Les Trois Tetons” (The Three Big Breasts) are a mountain range in Northwest Wyoming that holds “Grand Teton” the highest mountain in Grand Teton National Park.
The mesmerizing beauty these mountains provide for onlookers allows for some of the most enchanting pictures or background for pictures.
If You Go…
Check out some of the amazing trails and tours offered at the park including The Snake River float trip!
Along this tour you will get an up close view of the Grand Tetons’ diverse wildlife like moose, beaver, river otters, osprey and American bald eagles.
Also, if the river float interests you, you should definitely look into kayaking Jackson Lake as well.
15. Mount Fuji, Japan
Mount Fuji, one of Japan’s 3 sacred mountains, is a major cultural symbol for Japan. The mountain is a sacred site for practicers of Shinto. It’s also the tallest mountain in Japan.
It’s beauty is so prominent that it has been the muse for many pieces of art. So why not, use your camera to capture what so many consider art.
Can You Climb Mount Fuji?
Mount Fuji is an active volcanic mountain, but the summer months attract the most amount of hikers attempting to climb this volcanic mountain and almost all of them make it to the summit successfully.
The climb (depending on the trail you choose) is an average of 5-10 hours long.
The 4 main trails leading up to the summit of Mt. Fuji:
- Yoshida
- Fujinomiya
- Subashiri
- Gotemba trail
Regardless of what trail you decide to take please make sure to be attentive to your surroundings on the descent as the trails leading down are made up of loose rock and pebbles.
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