Looking for songs about mountains?
Mountains and high places have long been a source of inspiration, both as towering physical landforms and potent metaphors for life's challenges.
A lot of music artists have captured this dual essence. They are able to blend the awe-inspiring beauty of nature with the profound depths of personal struggle.
Today, we’re sharing with you a collection of songs that pay tribute to these majestic geological formations.
These songs remind us of the resilience needed to overcome life's peaks and valleys, and give us the encouragement to keep climbing, despite the obstacles we face.
Read on to see what we’ve got for you.
1. Rocky Mountain High, John Denver
“But the Colorado Rocky Mountain high, I've seen it rainin' fire in the sky. The shadow from the starlight is softer than a lullaby. Rocky Mountain high…”
It sounds absurd that a song paying tribute to the majesty of the Colorado’s Rocky Mountains was banned from radio stations, but that’s exactly what happened when this song was first released in 1972.
At that time, some people thought it was a drug-related song. If they listened more closely, they would have realized that this song is about the elation one feels while experiencing something amazing out in nature.
This iconic song, which was adopted in 2007 as one of Colorado's two state songs, is a celebration of nature and the simple pleasures of life. It is a heartfelt tribute to the greatness of the Colorado mountains.
2. Take Me to the Mountain, Great Peacock
“Take me to the mountain and wash me in the riverside. It’s such a perfect place to hide, away the night.”
This song reflects on one’s desire to live a simpler, more meaningful existence.
In it, the mountain offers refuge and solace. The song is a quiet celebration of personal fulfillment amid life's complexities.
3. The Misty Mountains Cold (The Hobbit OST), Richard Armitage and the Dwarf Cast
“Far over the Misty Mountains cold, to dungeons deep and caverns old. We must away, ere break of day to find our long-forgotten gold.”
This song was featured in the 2012 film The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.
The song is haunting and powerful, recounting the dwarves' lost kingdom and their yearning to reclaim it. It speaks of a strong, understated desire to right a wrong and redeem a deep loss.
4. My Tennessee Mountain Home, Dolly Parton
“In my Tennessee mountain home life is as peaceful as a baby's sigh. In my Tennessee mountain home crickets sing in the fields nearby.”
This song is a nostalgic tribute to Dolly Parton’s humble beginnings in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. It is about the peacefulness of one’s home in the mountains, where there is sure welcome after a long day.
The song paints a vivid picture of rural life filled with simple joys and a strong sense of community. It is a heartfelt, touching homage to one’s roots.
5. Mountain at My Gates, Foals
“I see a mountain at my gates. I see it more and more each day. And my desire wears a dark dress. Ah, each day I see you less.”
First released in 2015, this song is a dynamic and introspective track. It is an exploration of the personal struggles and the challenges we face.
The song tells of one’s determination to overcome obstacles, symbolized by the metaphorical mountain. It is an anthem for those who are facing their own battles head on.
6. Fire on the Mountain, The Marshall Tucker Band
“And there's fire on the mountain, lightning in the air, gold in them hills, and it's waiting for me there.”
This tragic song tells the story of a prospector's ill-fated journey during the California Gold Rush.
In it, listeners get to know an adventurous prospector who faces the perilous nature of mining for gold. It is a sobering reminder that not all dreams turn into reality.
7. The Climb, Miley Cyrus
“There's always gonna be another mountain. I'm always gonna wanna make it move. Always gonna be an uphill battle. Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose. Ain't about how fast I get there. Ain't about what's waiting on the other side. It's the climb.”
If you’re looking for an empowering song about mountains, this one fits the bill. Miley Cyrus’ song is about perseverance and self-discovery.
In it, the mountain represents challenges that one has to overcome. The Climb is a reminder that overcoming obstacles isn’t the only thing that’s important. The process that gets you to the top is just as important.
8. Mountains, Biffy Clyro
“I took a bite out of a mountain range, thought my teeth would break. The mountain did. Let's go, I want to go all the way to the horizon.”
Here’s an uplifting tribute to resilience and tenacity.
The lyrics contain powerful symbolism that empowers listeners to believe in their own ability to triumph over adversity.
9. Wild Mountain Nation, Blitzen Trapper
“So if your love won't grow and the rivers won't flow. Just join that holy desert tribe. Is where we saddle up to ride. You know that wild mountain nation on the rise of going home.”
Released in 2007, this song celebrates freedom and the untamed beauty of nature.
It calls listeners to go on an adventure, both metaphorically and literally.
10. Mountain Music, Alabama
“Oh, play me some mountain music like grandma and grandpa used to play. Then I'll float on down the river to a Cajun hideaway.”
Alabama released this song in 1982. It is a lively country song that pays homage to the band's Southern roots and the joys of rural life.
The song is filled with nostalgic longing for the traditions and simple pleasures of growing up in the mountains.
11. Small Mountain, Midlake
“The rise and the fall upon small mountain was fair not for all in need. And I, with my life, have gone away from this land of gold.”
This introspective track chronicles our struggles in life. It evokes a feeling of solitude and introspection, prompting listeners to reflect on how they’re doing in their own journey.
12. Climb Every Mountain (The Sound of Music OST), Peggy Wood
“Climb every mountain. Ford every stream. Follow every rainbow 'til you find your dream.”
This song was performed by Penny Wood in the 1965 classic The Sound of Music.
It is an inspirational song that encourages people to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles. The song serves as a motivational anthem, not only within the film, but in our lives, as well.
13. The Call of the Mountains, Eluveitie
“The call of the mountains, the call of the Alps. The call home, the tune in our hearts. The song of the mountains.”
First released in 2014, this melodic metal track is a powerful anthem that captures the grandeur and spirit of the Swiss Alps. It is about having a deep connection to nature and heritage, invoking a sense of belonging and reverence for the mountains.
14. The Heights of Mt. Olympus (from Orphie & The Book of Heroes), Sam Edgerly and Haven Burton
“I’m as big as Mt. Olympus. That’s the truth I see inside me. All the stories have to guide me and set my spirit free.”
This song celebrates the triumphs and trials of one of Greek mythology's heroes. It is about learning to have courage and embracing one’s destiny.
15. Mountain Peaks, Stephen Sanchez
“If your waves could be the mountains I climb. If I could reach the peaks and touch your mind. Oh, oh, the distance I would go.”
This is a heartfelt ballad that dives into the depths of love.
In it, listeners get to know a passionate individual who offers their vulnerability in order to be with the person they love.
16. Mountains, Lonestar
“There are times in life when you gotta crawl. Lose your grip, trip an' fall. When you can't lean on no one else, that's when you find yourself. I've been around an' I've noticed that walkin's easy when the road is flat. Them danged ol' hills'll get you every time. Yeah, the good Lord gave us mountains so we could learn how to climb.”
This song is about the trials in our lives that make us stronger as we overcome them.
The song uses the metaphor of climbing mountains to illustrate overcoming personal struggles and achieving dreams.
It encourages listeners to keep pushing forward, no matter how steep the climb.
17. The Mountain, Dierks Bentley
“It was only a mountain, nothing but a big ol' rock. Only a mountain. It ain't hard if you don't stop. It just took a little step, a right, then a left. Then a couple million more. Who's counting? Yeah, that's only a mountain.”
In an interview, Dierks Bentley explains the title of this song, saying, “I think it’s a metaphor for what life is in general. Every job, every life has these peaks and valleys. Just when you think you get to the top of something, there’s another one a little bit higher.”
18. The Mountain, Three Days Grace
“Every day I'm just survivin'. Keep climbin' the mountain. Even when I feel like dyin'. Keep climbin' the mountain.”
This song was written in 2016 and first released in 2018. It is about how people overcome the daily challenges they face.
The song is also a reaction to repetitive things that people need to do in order to survive.
19. Mountain Climbing, Joe Bonamassa
“I’m just a poor man working day by day. Lost in the struggle, there’s a mountain in my way. So strap your boots on get ready for that first step. The uphill battle that I ain’t even started yet.”
Here’s another song that compares the hard times we experience to climbing a mountain.
It vividly describes the arduous journey of day-to-day survival. The only way we can get to the top is if we are tenacious and determined enough.
20. Climb That Mountain High, Reba McEntire
“I'm gonna climb that mountain high. I'm gonna see what's on the other side. I'm gonna kiss this town goodbye. I'm gonna climb that mountain.”
Here’s another anthem for those striving to reach their goals.
Reba McEntire’s song encourages listeners to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination, even if that means walking away from all that’s familiar and comforting.
This song reminds us of the importance of perseverance and optimism when facing life's challenges, which she likens to a difficult climb up a mountain.
21. Landslide, Fleetwood Mac
“Took my love, took it down. Climbed a mountain and I turned around. And I saw my reflection in the snow-covered hills 'til the landslide brought me down.”
This is a deeply introspective song that will resonate with listeners navigating life's changes and uncertainties. It is about growth, self-awareness, and the inevitable passage of time.
22. My Proud Mountains, Towns Van Zandt
“My home is Colorado with her proud mountains tall, where the rivers like gypsies down her black canyons fall. Well, I'm a long, long way from Denver with a long way to go. So lend an ear to my singing 'cause I'll be back no more.”
This song evokes a profound sense of longing and connection. In it, there is a yearning for peace and grounding, away from the consequences of bad choices.
All the narrator can do is reminisce about life in their hometown in the mountains and express regret and sadness that they can no longer return there.
23. This Mountain, Faouzia
“I'm gonna make it up this mountain, make it to the top. Show them what I'm made of, show them what I've got. I will, I will, I will…”
This is an empowering song about overcoming obstacles and rising above adversity.
It highlights inner strength and resilience. Listeners facing their own challenges can resonate with it. The song is a reminder that, with determination, any mountain can be conquered.
24. Rocky Top, Osborne Brothers
“Rocky Top, you'll always be home sweet home to me. Good ol' Rocky Top. Rocky Top, Tennessee.”
This song, chosen as one of Tennessee's official state songs, is a spirited celebration of the simple joys and rustic charm of life in the Appalachian Mountains.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of carefree living and the happiness found in nature's embrace. It is an ode to the beauty of rural life and the nostalgia of home.
25. Blue Ridge Cabin Home, Flatt and Scruggs
“When I die, won't you bury me on that old mountain side. Make my resting place upon the hills so high.”
Here’s another song about longing for one’s hometown.
It evokes a deep sense of peace and belonging, resonating with those who cherish memories of simpler times. This song appeals to listeners seeking the solace of home.
26. Green Mountain State, Trevor Hall
“I call to the Green Mountain State. I call to the silence you make. Do you live inside, outside me? As you speak through ten thousand leaves.”
This song is a soulful tribute to the serenity and natural beauty of Vermont. It celebrates the peace and clarity found in the state's lush landscapes, offering listeners a moment of calm and reflection.
27. The Road You Didn’t Take, Stornoway
“Get high up on the mountain, feel your lungs start burning as you rise. Sometimes when you get to the summit, you will see another hill to climb.”
This song is about the choices and paths we choose in life.
It invites listeners to ponder the possibilities of roads not taken, encouraging a sense of curiosity and introspection.
The song resonates with listeners reflecting on their own life decisions and the alternative paths that shape their journey.
28. High on a Mountaintop, Loretta Lynn
“High on a mountain top we live, we love, and we laugh a lot. Folks up here know what they got, high on a mountaintop.”
This song is about the peace and serenity of mountain life.
It celebrates the freedom and joy found that can be found in living on the high peaks.
29. Climbing Mountains, Adam Calhoun and Struggle Jennings, ft. Caitlynne Curtis
“Will you climb the highest mountains? Will you fight for those who can't? Will you fold and walk away? Or will you stay and take a stand?”
This raw and gritty song is about having the courage and resilience to climb mountains for others.
In it, listeners are invited to reflect on how willing they are to climb the proverbial mountain for the sake of others, to make their lives a bit better.
30. The Mountain Song, Tophouse
“Why do people climb mountains? Is it just to reach the top and see the view? Well, I'll tell you something. Every rock and every river, every sore and every splinter. I would climb every mountain with you.”
This song doesn’t dwell on the reason why people climb mountains. Instead, it highlights the value of togetherness—of having a partner who willingly goes every step of the way on that difficult climb.
31. Mountain Climbing, Garrett Kato
“Should I keep climbing the mountain? Should I keep fighting the seas? Should I keep going forever ‘till I can't even breathe?”
Garrett Kato wrote this song as a reflection on the question, “How much is too much for a life in music?”
The song compares life as a professional musician with the act of constantly climbing mountains, sacrificing so many things for their craft.
32. Climbing Up the Mountain, Don Gibson
“Once I've traveled in the valley so low lonely and weary way. I, now I travel in the valley no more yeah. I'll reach the other side by and by. Well, well I'm climbing up the mountain to the sky. I'm a going where I never, never die. I'm climbing. Yes, I'm climbing. You know I'm climbing. Yeah, I'll reach the other side by and by.”
This spiritually uplifting song is about faith and perseverance
It describes the journey of overcoming life's trials and striving for higher ground, and in doing so resonates with listeners seeking encouragement and hope.
This song offers a comforting message for those facing their own struggles.
33. You Gave Me a Mountain, Marty Robbins
“But this time you gave me a mountain, a mountain I may never climb. It isn't a hill any longer. You gave me a mountain this time.”
This song is a narrative of one man’s struggles. He has endured many hardships, but now he’s faced with the most difficult challenge of all. He isn’t sure if he can manage to overcome this “mountain.”
34. Mountains Are for Climbing, Meaghan Smith
“Mountains are for climbing. Heavens are for flying. With your hand in mine, we can do anything.”
In a post on her Facebook wall, Meaghan Smith wrote about this song: “I want to dedicate this to every person struggling to get up their own mountain. To the people breaking generational trauma cycles. To the people learning to live with depression, anxiety, mental illness. To the people living with physical illness and disease. To the people coping with grief. To the oppressed and underrepresented. To all the underdogs. If you're struggling to just get through…”
35. Mountain Song, Flatland Cavalry
“Mountain, mountain, it's good to see your face. Mighty wonder, high above the plains. Mountain, mountain, could I take your place?”
This song is a heartfelt tribute to the tranquility and inspiration found in the mountains.
It is about a longing for peace and clarity in nature's majesty, resonating with listeners who seek solace and comfort in the beauty of the mountains.
Final Thoughts on Songs About Mountains
Songs about mountains beautifully intertwine the grandeur of nature with our journey to become better versions of ourselves.
The tracks featured today remind us of the resilience and determination we need to climb our own metaphorical mountains to reach the summit. Moreover, they pay homage to the awe-inspiring landscapes that inspire such reflections.
If you’re looking for more song collections featuring different places around the world, you can start by checking out the following posts:
- 25 Best Songs About California: The Golden State
- 31 Best Songs About America (Patriotic and Non-Patriotic)
- 45 Best Songs About Traveling and Experiencing the World
