Gannett Peak

Gannett Peak is the highest mountain in Wyoming, rising to 13,809 feet (4,209 meters) in the Wind River Range. It is the state’s highest summit and a prominent objective for mountaineers in the central Rocky Mountains.

The peak is known for its glaciers and extensive alpine terrain, with routes that involve glacier travel, crevasse risk and remote ridge approaches. Climbs typically require multiple days from trailheads, significant route-finding, and mountaineering equipment rather than simple hiking.

Named in honor of U.S. geographer Henry Gannett, the mountain sits within the high, glaciated core of the Wind River Range and has long been a focus for scientific and climbing parties. Its glaciers and alpine basins are important sources for regional streams and ecology.

Gannett Peak lies in western Wyoming’s Wind River Range, within federally managed wilderness and national forest lands. Trailheads used for standard approaches are on the range’s flanks and require long approaches across rugged country.

• Elevation: Elevation 13,809 feet (4,209 meters) - the highest point in the U.S. state of Wyoming.
• Access and difficulty: Approaches are long and remote; climbs normally require multi-day backcountry travel, glacier travel skills, and route-finding experience.

What to See #

• Gannett Glacier: A perennial ice mass on the mountain's slopes that contributes to year-round snowfields and glacial travel on standard ascent routes.
• Dinwoody Glacier: A large glacier on the northeastern flank frequently encountered by climbers approaching the summit and part of the range's glacier system.