Montana is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the United States, from the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the sweeping plains of the Great Plains. But which is the highest point in Montana? The answer is Granite Peak, which stands at 12,807 feet above sea level in the Beartooth Mountains of Montana's southernmost region.
Granite Peak is the highest mountain in Montana and the third-highest peak in the Rocky Mountains. The peak is located in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, which is part of the larger Custer Gallatin National Forest. The peak is surrounded by alpine meadows and jagged ridges, making it a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The peak is also accessible via a long, difficult hike from the Beartooth Highway, which is about 25 miles away.
Granite Peak, like many of the peaks in Montana, is part of the Lewis Range, a group of peaks that stretches from Montana into Idaho and Wyoming. The peak was named for the granite outcroppings on its slopes, which give the peak a unique and rugged appearance. The peak was first climbed in 1923 by a party led by local mountaineer Bill Putnam. Since then, it has become a popular destination for mountaineers and climbers from around the world.
The summit of Granite Peak is a rocky outcrop, but it is surrounded by a wide variety of alpine vegetation, including wildflowers and grasses. The peak is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk. The peak is part of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, which is the largest wilderness area in the lower 48 states. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and wolverines.
What is the Closest Town to Granite Peak?
The closest town to Granite Peak is Red Lodge, Montana, which is located about 25 miles from the peak. Red Lodge is a small mountain town with a population of about 2,500. The town is located at the base of the Beartooth Mountains and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Red Lodge is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and lodging, making it a great place to stay when visiting Granite Peak.
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Granite Peak?
The best time to visit Granite Peak is between late June and early September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and the snow has melted off of the peak, making it easier to reach the summit. The peak can be climbed year-round, but snow can make the route more difficult and dangerous. Winter ascents are possible, but they should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers.
What is the Easiest Way to Climb Granite Peak?
The easiest way to climb Granite Peak is via the South Face route. This route is the shortest and most direct route to the summit, and does not require any technical climbing skills. The South Face route is about 5 miles round trip and involves a steep hike up to the summit. The route is not particularly difficult, but it requires a good level of physical fitness.
Are There Any Other Peaks Near Granite Peak?
Yes, there are several other peaks in the area near Granite Peak. The Beartooth Mountains are home to a variety of peaks, including Index Peak (12,743 feet), Pilot Peak (12,707 feet), and Electric Peak (12,804 feet). The area also has a variety of smaller peaks, including Pilot Knob (12,329 feet) and Pilot Butte (11,837 feet).
Are There Any Other Activities Near Granite Peak?
In addition to hiking and climbing, there are a variety of other activities near Granite Peak. The nearby town of Red Lodge has a variety of restaurants, shops, and lodging. Nearby Beartooth Lake is a popular destination for fishing and boating, and there are also a number of trails for mountain biking and horseback riding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest point in Montana?
The highest point in Montana is Granite Peak, which stands at 12,807 feet above sea level in the Beartooth Mountains.
What is the closest town to Granite Peak?
The closest town to Granite Peak is Red Lodge, Montana, which is located about 25 miles from the peak.
What is the best time of year to visit Granite Peak?
The best time to visit Granite Peak is between late June and early September.
What is the easiest way to climb Granite Peak?
The easiest way to climb Granite Peak is via the South Face route.
Are there any other peaks near Granite Peak?
Yes, there are several other peaks in the area near Granite Peak, including Index Peak (12,743 feet), Pilot Peak (12,707 feet), and Electric Peak (12,804 feet).
Are there any other activities near Granite Peak?
In addition to hiking and climbing, there are a variety of other activities near Granite Peak, including restaurants, shops, fishing, boating, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Is Granite Peak a difficult climb?
Granite Peak can be climbed without any technical climbing skills, but it requires a good level of physical fitness. Winter ascents should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers.
Is there camping near Granite Peak?
Yes, there is camping near Granite Peak in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness area. There are also a variety of campgrounds in the area, including Beartooth Lake Campground and Woodbine Campground.
Is Granite Peak part of the Rocky Mountains?
Yes, Granite Peak is part of the Rocky Mountains and is the third-highest peak in the range.
How long does it take to climb Granite Peak?
The South Face route to Granite Peak is about 5 miles round trip and usually takes 8-10 hours to complete.
Is there a fee to climb Granite Peak?
No, there is no fee to climb Granite Peak.
Is there any wildlife at Granite Peak?
Yes, the peak is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk.
What is the elevation of Granite Peak?
Granite Peak stands at 12,807 feet above sea level.