Location and surroundings
The peak sits in Pershing County, Nevada, within the United States. Its broader geographic hierarchy places it in the North American Cordillera, Intermountain West, Great Basin Ranges, and Northwest Great Basin Ranges, framed by the Black Rock Desert and the Hannan Range. The surrounding landscape features arid basin and range terrain characterized by sweeping desert valleys and rugged, dry uplifted ranges.
Neighbouring peaks
The summit is surrounded by several neighbouring peaks and passes:
- Seven Troughs Benchmark (peak, 2,377 m): 13.4 km E
- Seven Troughs Mountain (peak), 2,268 m, 15.4 km SE
- Twin Buttes (peak), 1,506 m, 15.9 km W
- Dry Mountain (peak), 1,990 m, 17.2 km NW
- Signal Peak (peak), 1,895 m, 17.5 km SE
- Black Mountain (peak), 2,008 m, 19.0 km S
- Phonolite Peak (peak), 2,080 m, 19.7 km E
- KBSK Mountain (peak), 2,172 m, 20.2 km E
Compared to these nearby formations, Hannan Range High Point stands at 2,143 metres, making it lower than nearby summits such as Seven Troughs Benchmark, which also serves as the nearest higher peak at a distance of 13.4 kilometres east.
The view from the summit
From the high point, the surrounding basin and range topography opens up across Pershing County and the Black Rock Desert. Among the notable regional elevations within a 25-kilometre radius is Eagles Nest Rock, which reaches 1,872 metres and is situated 21.8 kilometres to the east. On clear days, the vast expanse of the Northwest Great Basin Ranges is visible in all directions.
The range
Hannan Range High Point is situated within the Hannan Range, which is part of the Black Rock Desert region within the Northwest Great Basin Ranges. The Hannan Range is part of the extensive Great Basin Ranges system. Hannan Range High Point serves as the highest point of the Hannan Range itself.
Climate and weather
Climate figures for the summit are estimates derived from NASA POWER climate data spanning 2001 to 2007. At the summit elevation of 2,143 metres, the mean temperature reaches a warmest month peak in July at about 21 °C, and a coldest month low in December at about -3 °C. Months with a mean above freezing at the summit include March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November. In the surrounding area, precipitation totals about 150 mm a year, with January being the wettest month at about 20 mm and July the driest at about 5 mm. Typical regional weather hazards include sudden summer thunderstorms, high winds on exposed ridges, and winter snow accumulations.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Hannan Range High Point aligns with the months that maintain a mean temperature above freezing at the summit, specifically March through November. During these months, conditions are generally more favourable for hiking and climbing than in the freezing winter period. July and August offer the warmest temperatures, though summer months also experience very dry conditions with minimal precipitation.
Nature and wildlife
The environment around Hannan Range High Point consists of arid-region flora and fauna adapted to the harsh climate of the Great Basin Ranges. Vegetation is sparse, featuring drought-resistant shrubs, sagebrush, and native grasses typical of the Black Rock Desert foothills. Local wildlife includes reptiles, small rodents, birds of prey, and occasional larger mammals such as mule deer navigating the dry terrain.
Guides and organised ascents
For visitors seeking professional assistance, mountaineering in the United States is supported by the American Mountain Guides Association, an IFMGA/UIAGM member, as well as the American Alpine Club. Established guiding companies operating in the country include RMI Expeditions based in Ashford, Washington, and Exum Mountain Guides based in Moose, Wyoming. These organizations serve as examples of where visitors usually turn for mountain expertise in the region. Guided ascents typically depend on factors such as trip duration, group size, required technical equipment, and professional guide fees. Visitors should also note national permit rules in the United States, where certain peaks require climbing registration or permits from the land agency, such as Denali or Mount Rainier.
Safety and preparation
Climbing or hiking at this elevation demands proper preparation for remote terrain, strong winds, and rapid weather shifts. Adequate water, sun protection, and navigational tools are essential. In case of an emergency, the general emergency number in the United States is 911, which connects callers to dispatchers who alert the local search and rescue team, usually managed by the county sheriff or national park service.
Interesting facts
Hannan Range High Point is the culminating elevation of the Hannan Range within Pershing County, Nevada. The nearest higher peak is Seven Troughs Benchmark at 2,377 metres, located 13.4 kilometres to the east. The summit stands at an exact elevation of 2,143 metres in the heart of the Northwest Great Basin Ranges.
FAQ
What is the elevation of Hannan Range High Point? The summit reaches an elevation of 2,143 metres.Where is Hannan Range High Point located? It is located in the United States, specifically in Nevada within Pershing County, and forms the highest point of the Hannan Range.
Which range does the mountain belong to? It belongs to the Hannan Range, which is part of the Black Rock Desert, Northwest Great Basin Ranges, Great Basin Ranges, Intermountain West, and the North American Cordillera.
What are the nearest peaks to Hannan Range High Point? The nearest peaks include Seven Troughs Benchmark (2,377 m, 13.4 km E), Seven Troughs Mountain (2,268 m, 15.4 km SE), and Twin Buttes (1,506 m, 15.9 km W).
Is there water on the way to Hannan Range High Point? There are no natural springs or huts listed along the routes, so visitors should carry sufficient water—typically 1.5 to 3 litres for a day trip—depending on heat and the length of the hike.
What is the mobile phone coverage like? Coverage in the hills is patchy and depends on the operator. It is recommended to download offline maps before setting out, keeping in mind that 911 reaches emergency services over any available network.