See Your Bucket List From Above

By now you have probably read hundreds of articles about bucket lists or must-see destinations before you die.

Highpointing uses a similar list system, but has a more specific set of criteria. The pursuit sees participants climb to the top of the highest point in each of the 50 U.S. states.

Some of these high points are more challenging than others, with Florida’s highest point clocking in at only 345 feet above sea level. Compare that to the 20,237 feet you need to ascend to tick off Mount McKinley in Alaska, and you can see that some serious skill is involved for some ascents.

Around 300 people completed the Highpointing challenge, and about 10 more members are added to the Highpointer Club’s list of completers each year. Everyone that reaches all 50 peaks receives a plaque from the club in order to commemorate their achievement.

A dozen of the peaks have road access, meaning you can drive to the top if you want. However, there are another 12 on which you may suffer altitude sickness and frozen toes. In between are a number of states where the high points are found at the end of moderately difficult half-day hikes, providing a sense of achievement without the need for specialist equipment or training.

Even if you’re not going to try and climb all 50, Highpointing can add interest to a vacation or road trip. If you start completing them now, you could always try and train for an ascent of Mount McKinley as your final peak.