Mount Cleveland (Montana)
Mountain Highest peak in Glacier National Park, Montana
Montana’s highest peak within Glacier National Park; attracts experienced climbers and backcountry hikers for remote alpine terrain and glacial vistas.
Mount Cleveland is the highest mountain in Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana, with a summit elevation of 10,466 feet (3,189 metres). It is a prominent, glaciated peak within the Lewis Range and forms a major feature of the park’s alpine skyline.
The mountain is principally of interest to mountaineers and experienced backcountry parties because approaches are long and routes are often steep or technical. The mountain’s higher slopes retain permanent snow and small glaciers on sheltered aspects.
The peak was named for President Grover Cleveland and has been referenced in United States Geological Survey maps and park literature since the late 19th century. It remains a landmark within the park’s backcountry.
Geographically it lies in Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana, near the US-Canada border, and is accessed only by long hikes or climbing approaches from within the park’s trail and route network.
- Park high point: At an elevation of 10,466 feet (3,189 metres) it is the highest peak within Glacier National Park and the park's benchmark summit for elevation.
How to Get to Mount Cleveland (Montana) #
Mount Cleveland is in Glacier National Park, Montana. Access typically begins from trailheads reached off US Highway 2 or local park roads; specific approaches vary (e.g., Belly River area). Park entry is via East Glacier or other park gateways-check Glacier National Park visitor information for seasonal road openings and trail conditions.
Tips for Visiting Mount Cleveland (Montana) #
- If approaching from the Belly River side, plan for long, remote travel with river crossings and minimal rescue options.
- Avoid solo ascents-cell coverage is unreliable; file a plan and expected return time with park authorities.
- High alpine weather can arrive with virtually no warning-check Glacier National Park forecasts and be avalanche-aware in shoulder seasons.
Best Time to Visit Mount Cleveland (Montana) #
Best attempted in midsummer for access and stability; pre- and post-summer visits require mountaineering experience and avalanche training.
Weather & Climate near Mount Cleveland (Montana) #
Mount Cleveland (Montana)'s climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -15°C to 15°C. Moderate rainfall (797 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -6°C and lows of -15°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -13°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and breezy conditions.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm) and breezy conditions.
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April
April is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm).
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May
May is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 0°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (108 mm).
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July
July is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm).
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October
October is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and breezy conditions.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -11°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm) and breezy conditions.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -15°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm) and breezy conditions.