Hills and mountains are both natural land formations that rise out of the landscape. Unfortunately, there is no universally accepted standard definition for the height of a mountain or a hill. This can make it difficult to differentiate between the two.

Mountain Versus Hill

There are characteristics that we typically associate with mountains; for example, most mountains have steep slopes and a well-defined summit while hills tend to be rounded. This, however, is not always the case.

Though no one can agree on the heights of mountains and hills, there are a few generally accepted characteristics that define each.

What is a Hill?

In general, we think of hills as having a lower elevation than a mountain and a more rounded/mound shape than a distinct peak. Some accepted characteristics of a hill are:

• A natural mound of earth created either by faulting or erosion.
• A ‘bump’ in the landscape, rising gradually from its surroundings.
• Low altitude and elevation, often less than 984-1968 feet (300-600 meters).
• A rounded top with no well-defined summit.
• Often unnamed.
• Easy to climb.

Hills may have once been mountains that were worn down by erosion over many thousands of years.

What is a Mountain?

Though a mountain is typically taller than a hill, there is no official height designation. An abrupt difference in local topography is often described as a mountain, and such features will often have ‘mount’ or ‘mountain’ in their name.

Some accepted characteristics of a mountain are:

• A natural mound of earth created by faulting.
• A very steep rise in the landscape that is often abrupt in comparison to its surroundings.
• High altitude and elevation, often higher than 1968 feet (600 meters).
• A steep slope and a defined summit or peak.
• Often has a name.
• Depending on the slopes and elevation, mountains can be a challenge to climb.

Of course, there are exceptions to these assumptions and some features that would otherwise be called “mountains” have the word “hills” in their name.

https://www.thoughtco.com/difference-between-hill-and-mountain-4071583