What is the highest peak in the Sierra Nevada of the United States?

The highest peak in the Sierra Nevada of the United States is Mount Whitney, with an elevation of 4,421 metres.

Mount Whitney is in eastern California on the boundary of Inyo and Tulare counties. Its summit lies on the Sierra Crest and reaches above the surrounding alpine landscape, making it the highest point in both the Sierra Nevada and the contiguous United States. The mountain’s western side is protected within Sequoia National Park, while its eastern slopes are managed largely by the Inyo National Forest.

A common mix-up is confusing Mount Whitney with the highest point in the entire United States, which is Denali in Alaska. Whitney is instead the highest point in the lower 48 states. It is also near Death Valley: Badwater Basin, North America’s lowest point, lies roughly 85 miles away.

The peak was named for Josiah Whitney, California’s state geologist. Its first recorded ascent took place on August 18, 1873, by Charles Begole, Albert Johnson, and John Lucas. The Mount Whitney Trail begins near Lone Pine and requires a permit for standard day hikes.