Denali – The Tallest Mountain in North America

Denali, standing at 6,190 meters (20,310 feet), is the tallest mountain in North America and one of the toughest climbs of the Seven Summits. Located in Alaska’s Alaska Range, Denali is renowned for its severe weather, remoteness, and technical difficulty. Reaching the summit requires strength, skill, and resilience.

Facts About Denali

• Height: 6,190m (20,310ft)
• Location: Alaska Range, Alaska, USA
• First Ascent: Hudson Stuck, Harry Karstens, Walter Harper & Robert Tatum, 1913
• Climbing Season: May to early July

Climbing Denali

Denali is considered one of the most difficult of the Seven Summits because of its extreme cold, unpredictable storms, and technical glacier travel. The most common route is:

• West Buttress Route: The standard route, but still demanding due to crevasses, steep snow slopes, and heavy load carrying.

Climbers must carry their own supplies, pull sleds, and camp in harsh conditions. The combination of latitude and weather makes Denali feel much higher than its actual elevation.

Denali and the Seven Summits

As North America’s highest peak, Denali is a vital part of the Seven Summits challenge. Many climbers train on less technical but high-altitude mountains like Mount Kilimanjaro before attempting Denali, as it builds strength and confidence at altitude without the dangers of Alaskan weather.

Why Start with Kilimanjaro Before Denali?

Kilimanjaro (5,895m) is Africa’s tallest mountain and an excellent preparation climb for Denali. While Kilimanjaro does not require technical skills, it tests endurance and altitude adaptation, providing the foundation climbers need before attempting the icy slopes and extreme conditions of Alaska.

Learn more about our Kilimanjaro treks and start building your Seven Summits experience today.

Denali in Culture and History

Known to Alaska Natives as “Denali,” meaning “The High One,” the mountain holds deep cultural significance. Its official name was restored to Denali in 2015, replacing “Mount McKinley.” Today, it remains a symbol of North American wilderness, adventure, and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Denali

How long does it take to climb Denali?

Most expeditions last 2–3 weeks, depending on weather and acclimatization needs.

Is Denali harder than Everest?

In many ways, yes. Although Everest is taller, Denali’s harsh weather, heavy loads, and isolation make it technically more demanding.

Can beginners climb Denali?

No. Denali requires technical glacier skills, experience in extreme cold, and high-altitude mountaineering. Beginners should first train on mountains like Kilimanjaro.

Plan Your Seven Summits Journey

At Tanzania Trip Service, we specialize in Kilimanjaro expeditions — the perfect entry point into the Seven Summits. From Africa’s highest peak to greater challenges like Denali and Everest, our team helps prepare you for success at high altitude.

Visit our homepage to explore all of our adventures or contact us today to begin planning.