The name "Valhalla Mountains" first appeared in George Mercer Dawson's Geological Survey of Canada map published in 1890.

Dawson applied names derived from Scandinavian mythology to several of the mountain ranges and peaks in Southern Kootenay.

[2][5] Gladsheim is the magnificent meeting hall containing thirteen council seats where, according to Norse mythology, Odin presided over all the realms.

In keeping with the Valhalla theme, this peak's name was submitted in 1900 by R. W. Brock to the Geological Survey of Canada for consideration, and it was officially adopted March 31, 1924, by the Geographical Names Board of Canada.

Its nearest higher peak is Mount Cooper, 49.0 km (30.4 mi) to the northeast.