Climbing mountains has been a long-standing pursuit of adventurers, spiritual seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts.  While summiting a peak may be seen as a physical challenge, it is often just as much a mental and emotional journey.  Some mountains, with their accessibility, beauty, or fame, attract countless climbers every year.  Here are the 10 most climbed mountains in the world, celebrated for their unique attributes and the stories they hold.

#1: Mount Fuji (12,389 ft)

Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest and most iconic peak, attracting hundreds of thousands of climbers annually.  Located just 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, this near-perfect conical volcano holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in Japan.  The traditional climbing season spans from July to September, during which the trails are bustling with climbers of all experience levels.

Fuji’s beauty has inspired countless works of art and literature, notably Katsushika Hokusai’s famous woodblock print series, Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.  Despite its height, Fuji is often considered a manageable climb, as well-marked trails and stations offer food and rest points.  Many climbers aim to reach the summit by sunrise, participating in the traditional “Goraikō,” or “arrival of light,”  which offers breathtaking views of the sun rising above the clouds.

An interesting fact about Mount Fuji is its dual role as both a sacred site and a popular tourist attraction. Historically, only men and monks climbed it, with women forbidden until the Meiji era.  Today, the mountain symbolizes harmony between Japan’s spiritual roots and its modern allure.

#2: Mount Hood (11,239 ft)

Mount Hood, located in Oregon, USA, is one of the most climbed glaciated peaks in the world.  A dormant stratovolcano, its year-round accessibility and stunning surroundings attract over 10,000 climbers annually.  The South Side Route is the most popular path, accessible even to novice mountaineers, although unpredictable weather and crevasse risks can make the climb challenging.

One of Mount Hood’s most fascinating aspects is Timberline Lodge, a historic hotel on the mountain’s southern slope.  Famously used as the exterior setting for The Shining, the lodge has become a landmark in its own right.  The mountain also has a storied history among Native American tribes, who considered it a spiritual place and called it Wy’east.

Anecdotal stories include tales of climbers skiing down the mountain after summiting.  Hood is home to year-round skiing, one of the few places in North America where this is possible.  However, despite its accessibility, Mount Hood demands respect; its glaciated terrain has led to numerous rescue missions over the years.

#3: Mount Monadnock (3,165 ft)

Mount Monadnock, in New Hampshire, USA, is known as one of the most climbed mountains in the world, with more than 100,000 visitors annually.  Though not particularly high, its isolated position offers breathtaking 360-degree views of New England, making it a popular destination for day hikes.

Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson famously wrote about the mountain, immortalizing its serene beauty in literature.  With well-maintained trails and a variety of routes to the summit, Monadnock appeals to families, school groups, and serious hikers alike.

Interestingly, the mountain’s name derives from the Abenaki word meaning “mountain standing alone.”  Despite its modest height, Monadnock has been the subject of numerous conservation efforts, as overuse has caused significant trail erosion.  Climbers are encouraged to “leave no trace” to preserve its natural beauty for future generations.

#4: Table Mountain (3,558 ft)

Dominating the skyline of Cape Town, South Africa, Table Mountain is famous for its flat summit and dramatic cliffs.  Accessible via hiking trails or a cable car, it is a major tourist attraction, with millions visiting its summit annually.  The views of Cape Town, Robben Island, and the surrounding oceans are spectacular.

Table Mountain is part of the Cape Floral Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It boasts a unique ecosystem with hundreds of plant species found nowhere else.  Climbing the mountain offers a mix of adventure and ecology, making it a favorite for nature enthusiasts.

Stories abound of climbers encountering “tablecloth,” a phenomenon where clouds cascade over the flat summit like a white sheet.  This natural spectacle often surprises visitors and adds an air of mystique to the mountain.  Its cultural history includes its role as a navigation landmark for sailors during the age of exploration.

#5: Snowdon (3,560 ft)

Located in Wales, Snowdon is the highest peak in England and Wales, drawing hundreds of thousands of climbers annually.  Known locally as Yr Wyddfa, the mountain has multiple paths to the summit, ranging from gentle inclines to more challenging scrambles.

One of Snowdon’s unique features is the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which has carried visitors to its summit since 1896.  This makes the peak accessible to those who might not otherwise experience such heights.  The summit café offers a chance to relax and take in the panoramic views of Snowdonia National Park.

Snowdon is steeped in legend, believed to be the resting place of Rhitta Gawr, a giant from Welsh folklore.  Stories of climbers overcoming personal challenges to summit Snowdon are common, as it is a mountain that appeals to beginners and experienced hikers alike.

#6: Mount Washington (6,288 ft)

Located in New Hampshire, USA, Mount Washington is famed for its extreme weather and accessibility.  Despite its modest height, the mountain holds the record for the highest wind speed ever recorded on land: 231 mph in 1934.

Thousands of climbers tackle Mount Washington each year via well-marked trails, while others take the historic cog railway or drive up the Auto Road.  Its summit offers a weather observatory and stunning views of the Presidential Range.

Mount Washington’s unpredictable weather has given rise to numerous dramatic rescue stories.  The mountain is a favorite among those training for larger alpine climbs due to its demanding conditions.

#7: Mount Kilimanjaro (19,341 ft)

Africa’s highest peak, located in Tanzania, is one of the Seven Summits and attracts tens of thousands of climbers yearly.  Kilimanjaro’s non-technical routes make it accessible to trekkers, but its height and the risk of altitude sickness present a formidable challenge.

Known as the “Roof of Africa,” Kilimanjaro’s dramatic landscapes range from lush rainforests to arid alpine deserts and icy summits.  Ernest Hemingway’s The Snows of Kilimanjaro brought the mountain global fame, and its glaciers are a poignant symbol of climate change as they rapidly recede.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is often described as a spiritual journey.  Many climbers form strong bonds with their guides and porters, creating unforgettable memories as they ascend this awe-inspiring peak.

#8: Mount Elbrus (18,510 ft)

Mount Elbrus, located in the Caucasus Mountains of Russia, is the highest peak in Europe and one of the Seven Summits.  With over 10,000 climbers annually, it is a magnet for mountaineers aiming to conquer one of the most prestigious peaks in the world.  Despite its height, Elbrus is considered a non-technical climb when approached via the standard routes.

The mountain’s twin summits and expansive glaciers make it a breathtaking sight.  Its dormant volcanic nature adds to its mystique, with the last known eruption occurring around 2,000 years ago.  Elbrus has a storied history in mountaineering, with its first ascent recorded in 1829 by Khillar Khachirov, a local guide.

Elbrus is deeply rooted in local folklore, often associated with myths and legends of the Caucasus region.  Its challenging weather and high altitude present climbers with significant obstacles, but the panoramic views from the summit make the journey worthwhile.  Anecdotal tales of perseverance, such as climbers braving sudden storms or witnessing the mesmerizing alpenglow, highlight its appeal as a bucket-list mountain.

#9: Mount Rinjani (12,224 ft)

Located on the Indonesian island of Lombok, Mount Rinjani is a towering active volcano and the second-highest volcano in Indonesia.  The climb attracts over 100,000 visitors each year due to its stunning vistas and the allure of Segara Anak, the crater lake within the caldera.

Rinjani’s rugged terrain and steep paths require a reasonable level of fitness, but the rewards are spectacular.  Climbers are treated to views of Bali, Sumbawa, and the Indian Ocean, especially during sunrise and sunset.  The mountain holds spiritual significance for the local Sasak people, who consider it sacred and often conduct traditional ceremonies at the lake.

Anecdotal stories of Rinjani often include encounters with its unique wildlife, including long-tailed macaques.  Climbers frequently remark on the camaraderie developed during the trek, as shared challenges and triumphs create lasting bonds.  Despite the occasional eruption disrupting access, Rinjani remains a beloved destination for adventurers seeking both challenge and natural beauty.

#10: Mount Whitney (14,505 ft)

Mount Whitney, located in California, USA, is the tallest peak in the contiguous United States and a favorite among climbers.  Part of the Sierra Nevada range, it sees tens of thousands of climbers annually, many of whom attempt the popular Whitney Trail.  The peak is part of the iconic John Muir Trail, making it a highlight for through-hikers.

Whitney’s granite spires and high-altitude landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop for climbers.  Permits are required for access due to its popularity, helping to manage the environmental impact of the large number of visitors.  Its history is tied to early conservation efforts, with John Muir advocating for its protection as part of the Sierra wilderness.

Interesting anecdotes include tales of climbers ascending Whitney in a single day or using it as a training ground for larger expeditions.  The summit offers sweeping views of the Eastern Sierra and Owens Valley, and the sense of achievement upon reaching it is unparalleled.  Whitney’s accessibility and natural beauty make it a symbol of adventure in the American West.

The mountains on this list highlight the diversity of climbing experiences available around the world, from towering volcanic peaks to sacred summits steeped in history and culture.  Each mountain offers unique challenges and rewards, drawing climbers from all walks of life.  Whether it’s the spiritual sunrise on Mount Fuji, the volcanic vistas of Rinjani, or the icy grandeur of Mount Elbrus, these peaks represent humanity’s enduring desire to explore, conquer, and connect with the natural world.  Through their trails, stories, and stunning vistas, they continue to inspire countless adventurers to push their limits and create memories that last a lifetime.