10 Major Mountain Ranges in the US [with Map]

Last Updated: May 29, 2025

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Key Takeaways:

Mountain Range	What's Inside?
Rocky Mountains	North America's longest range, known for dramatic peaks, wildlife, and the Continental Divide.
Appalachian Mountains	One of the world’s oldest ranges, famed for rolling forested hills and the Appalachian Trail.
Sierra Nevada	Dominated by granite cliffs and home to Yosemite, giant sequoias, and Mount Whitney.
Cascade Range	Volcanic chain with peaks like Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens, shaping the Northwest.
Alaska Range	Rugged and icy, this range includes Denali—the tallest peak in North America.
	And More Below >>

The United States boasts some of the most breathtaking mountain ranges globally, each distinct in its geological features, ecosystems, and cultural heritage.

From the iconic Rockies to the remote Brooks Range, let’s explore 10 major mountain ranges across America, highlighting essential details and intriguing facts. To help you explore these major mountain ranges in the US with maps, here we provide you the ins and outs.

1. Rocky Mountains

Stretching over 3,000 miles from British Columbia to New Mexico, the Rocky Mountains form North America's longest mountain range. Majestic and imposing, this range is renowned for its spectacular vistas and varied recreational activities like skiing, hiking, and wildlife watching.

Geologically formed 80-55 million years ago during the Laramide Orogeny, the Rockies feature prominent granite peaks such as Longs Peak (14,259 ft) and Grand Teton (13,775 ft). The Continental Divide runs through it, separating waters flowing towards the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, highlighting its ecological significance.

2. Appalachian Mountains

The Appalachian Mountains, extending about 1,500 miles from Newfoundland, Canada, to Alabama, USA, represent one of the world's oldest mountain ranges. They are famous for their gentle, forest-covered slopes and historical trails, attracting millions of hikers each year.

Geologically ancient, these mountains were formed around 1.2 billion years ago during the Grenville Orogeny and reshaped by subsequent geological events. Notable peaks include Mount Mitchell (6,684 ft) in North Carolina, and the Appalachian Trail (2,190 miles) showcases their ecological diversity, including hardwood forests and rich wildlife.

3. Sierra Nevada

Primarily located in California, the Sierra Nevada range is best known for its striking granite cliffs, alpine lakes, and giant sequoias—the world's largest trees. Its scenery includes iconic locations like Yosemite National Park and Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous U.S. at 14,505 feet.

Formed about 150-100 million years ago, the Sierras were significantly shaped by glacial activity. They are historically important for the California Gold Rush, and economically vital for tourism, agriculture, and hydropower generated from numerous mountain streams.

4. Cascade Range

Stretching from southern British Columbia to Northern California, the Cascade Range is characterized by its volcanic peaks, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls. Active volcanoes, including Mount Rainier (14,411 ft), Mount Hood (11,249 ft), and Mount St. Helens (famous for its 1980 eruption), define its dramatic landscape.

Geologically formed by volcanic activity through subduction processes, the Cascades play an essential role in the Pacific Northwest's climate. Economically, the range supports timber, tourism, and hydropower industries, significantly impacting local communities.

5. Alaska Range

Situated in south-central Alaska, the Alaska Range is notable for housing North America's tallest peak, Denali (20,310 ft). Rugged terrain, harsh weather, and vast glaciers such as Kahiltna make it a premier destination for experienced climbers and adventurers.

Formed around 60-70 million years ago by tectonic uplift, the range is rich in biodiversity despite its severe conditions, hosting species like grizzly bears, caribou, and Dall sheep. Denali National Park attracts substantial tourism, contributing to Alaska's economy.

6. Brooks Range

One of the most remote ranges in the U.S., the Brooks Range extends approximately 700 miles across northern Alaska into the Arctic Circle. Its isolated, pristine wilderness features minimal human impact and offers habitats to caribou, musk oxen, and wolves.

Geologically ancient, dating back about 400-300 million years, the Brooks Range primarily comprises sedimentary rocks. The region remains largely untouched by modern development, protected partially by Gates of the Arctic National Park and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

7. Coast Range

The Coast Range runs along the Pacific coastline from California through Oregon to Washington, known for rugged terrain, dense temperate rainforests, and dramatic coastal cliffs. The proximity to the ocean creates unique, foggy climates ideal for dense forests.

Geologically formed around 100-50 million years ago by tectonic uplift, the range hosts notable peaks like Saddle Mountain (3,283 ft). Economically, the Coast Range supports industries such as timber, fishing, and tourism, benefiting coastal communities.

8. Adirondack Mountains

Located in upstate New York within the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park, these mountains stand apart for their dome-shaped peaks and picturesque lakes. Mount Marcy, at 5,344 feet, is the range's highest peak, offering panoramic views.

Geologically about 1 billion years old, the Adirondacks were formed during the Grenville Orogeny. They are culturally significant, inspiring early American conservation efforts, and economically driven by tourism, including hiking, skiing, and water-based activities.

9. Ouachita Mountains

Spanning western Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma, the Ouachita Mountains uniquely run east-west, contrasting with most U.S. ranges. Characterized by dense oak-hickory forests and scenic rivers, they offer vibrant outdoor recreation.

Formed around 300 million years ago during the Ouachita Orogeny, notable peaks include Magazine Mountain (2,753 ft). Economically, they support tourism, logging, and natural gas industries, with attractions like Hot Springs National Park drawing visitors.

10. Olympic Mountains

Situated on Washington's Olympic Peninsula, the Olympic Mountains feature incredibly diverse ecosystems, from alpine meadows to lush temperate rainforests. Mount Olympus (7,979 ft), the highest peak, is surrounded by impressive glacial valleys and abundant wildlife.

Formed roughly 35 million years ago by tectonic activity, this range hosts unique biodiversity, including Roosevelt elk and rare plants. Protected within Olympic National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the mountains are a prime destination for tourists seeking nature's untouched beauty.