dry stack can be much higher,
to determine the construction the following questions could be answered:
-is this a retaining wall or a free standing wall,
-do you know about how to use through stones? and bonding stones? and dead-man tie backs?
-the higher the wall the wider the base and/or the steeper the batter
-the foundation footing under the surface is also important and depends upon soil type, freeze/thaw depths, weight, wether the footing is to be concrete or stone... etc
- will you use any lime mortar?
- what type os stone, and in what sort of configuration can also have a bearing on height

AshaK is asking all the right questions.
Since it is a dry stack be aware that the deeper the foundation the better, since you are in a very cold freeze/thaw climate I would go with a foot to a foot&half deep compacted gravel base whether it is freestanding or retaining wall. If it is retaining earth then make sure you use adequate drain rock behind the wall.
There are alot of books out there on stone stacking, it would be worth the money.
Would love to see some pics when finished!
Good luck!

I need to use a load of found limestone fieldstone to build a dry-stack retaining wall. The problem is that the earthen mound that it will settle into is approximately 8' high. According to what I've read I need to batter the wall 1"/ft. Is this adequate for such a load without wasting rock for such a wide base? Also, can anyone describe the best means of draining the water that will hold behind the wall? Drainage stone, weep holes, perforated drain tile? I need you help!!!