We Bet You Didn't Know There Was A Miniature Denali In Louisiana
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Jackie Ann
Author
Most states have at least one claim-to-fame mountain, and that includes Louisiana. Sure, Alaska’s Denali is absolutely breathtaking…after all, it is the highest mountain peak in North America. While Driskill Mountain in Louisiana may not come near Denali’s staggering 20,310 feet, it is the tallest natural summit in Louisiana, and the hike to the top is easy enough that even the youngest mountaineers can tackle it with few (if any) issues.
Somehow, Driskill Mountain snuck through though, because Louisiana's tallest natural summit clocks in at 535 feet. For comparison, here are the measurements for some of the tallest and most well-known mountains in the country:
Denali: 20,310 feet
Mount Whitney: 14,505 feet
Mount Rainier: 14,417 feet
Mount Shasta: 14,180 feet
Mount Baldy: 11,409 feet
Mount Hood: 11,250 feet
The west coast clearly dominates here. Let’s see some of the east coast numbers:
Mount Washington: 6,288 feet
Mount Marcy: 5,344 feet
Spruce Mountain: 4,863 feet
Mount Greylock: 3,491 feet
Denali: 20,310 feet
Mount Whitney: 14,505 feet
Mount Rainier: 14,417 feet
Mount Shasta: 14,180 feet
Mount Baldy: 11,409 feet
Mount Hood: 11,250 feet
The west coast clearly dominates here. Let’s see some of the east coast numbers:
Mount Washington: 6,288 feet
Mount Marcy: 5,344 feet
Spruce Mountain: 4,863 feet
Mount Greylock: 3,491 feet
The hiking trail is about a mile long, and with an elevation gain of 535 feet, it's safe to say you won't be needing any oxygen or base camps to reach the summit here. Parking is available at the Mount Zion Presbyterian Church parking lot, and the signs to the trail are clearly marked.
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It's also important to note that the trail is on private property. The owners are gracious enough to allow the public to use the trail system, just make sure you follow the Leave No Trace policy. If you're taking the trail during hunting season, it's advised you wear hunter's orange colors, too.
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There's also a rock cairn to note the highest peak.
One of the perks to hiking this area in the winter months is that you'll have a much better view. During the warmer months, you'll be surrounded by beautiful emerald greens, but the downside is that the views will be partially blocked. We'd recommend taking the trail multiple times throughout the year so you can soak in all the different views throughout the seasons.
Jordan Mountain clocks in at about 480 feet, and isn't hikable, but just being able to stand at the top of a mountain in Louisiana and look over to see another mountain in Louisiana is a surreal experience.
Just be sure to Leave No Trace so that future generations can enjoy this natural wonder just like you.
Once you’ve climbed to the summit of Driskill Mountain, you’ll be inspired to explore all of the natural wonders in Louisiana.
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Driskill Mountain, Louisiana 71275, USA