Denali vs Mount McKinley: The 2025 Name Controversy Explained

The Denali vs Mount McKinley debate is making headlines once again in 2025, reigniting a battle over history, politics, and identity. The towering peak, North America’s highest at 20,310 feet, has gone through several name changes over the past century. But for many Indigenous Alaskans, the name was never in question—it has always been Denali.

Now, after a 2015 name change under the Obama administration, the mountain’s name has been reversed again in 2025 by former President Trump. The decision has divided opinions across the country. Some see it as a correction of history, while others argue it erases Indigenous heritage.

Let’s break down the history, the politics, and what this means for Denali National Park visitors today.

Denali History: From Denali to Mount McKinley and Back Again

Before cartographers, politicians, and gold prospectors got involved, the mountain was known simply as Denali—a name used by the Koyukon Athabaskans for thousands of years. The name means "The High One", a tribute to its sacred presence in Indigenous culture.

But in 1896, an Ohio-born gold prospector, William Dickey, renamed the peak Mount McKinley, honoring President William McKinley—who had never even set foot in Alaska. The name was officially adopted in 1917, when the U.S. government established Mount McKinley National Park (which later became Denali National Park and Preserve in 1980).

For decades, Alaskans pushed back against the Mount McKinley name. In 1975, the state of Alaska officially recognized the mountain as Denali, but the federal government didn’t follow suit until 2015, when President Obama restored the original name.

Denali vs Mount McKinley: A Mountain at the Center of Debate

Names have power. And in this case, they carry deep cultural and political weight.

For Indigenous Alaskans, the name Denali isn’t just a label—it’s a symbol of their heritage. It represents their connection to the land and the oral traditions passed down for generations.

For supporters of Mount McKinley, particularly in Ohio (McKinley’s home state), the name was a point of national pride. They argue that McKinley’s legacy as a president who led during a period of economic growth deserves recognition.

The 2015 name change was a major victory for Indigenous communities and Alaskans. They had long preferred the traditional name.  In January 2025, former President Trump reversed the decision. 

Now, the mountain has two competing identities—and depending on where you stand, you might call it Denali or Mount McKinley.

🌍 More info: Denali National Park Name Change History Here

Denali National Park: What Visitors Need to Know

No matter what you call it, Denali National Park and Preserve remains an adventurer’s paradise. Spanning over 6 million acres, it offers:

🛣 Denali Park Road – A stunning scenic drive with breathtaking views of the mountain.
📸 Wonder Lake – One of the best photo spots to capture Denali’s iconic reflection.
🥾 Hiking Trails – From short nature walks to rugged backcountry routes.
⛰ The Climb – For serious mountaineers, summiting Denali’s peak is the ultimate challenge.

🌍 Plan your trip: Denali National Park Official Site

Conclusion: What’s Your Verdict?

At the end of the day, Denali vs Mount McKinley debate is more than just a name debate—it’s about history, culture, and identity

🔥 Where do you stand? Are you Team Denali or Team Mount McKinley? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

And no matter what you call it, one thing’s for sure—you can’t argue with the stunning views. 🌄

Related Reads:

• 10 Must-Visit National Parks for Adventure Seekers
• The Ultimate Packing Guide for Your Next National Park Trip

Whichever team you’re on, one thing’s for sure—you can’t argue with the stunning views.