At 2,194 m (7,198 ft), it is the second highest peak on Vancouver Island, second only to the nearby Golden Hinde which lies 15 km (9 mi) to the south.

The mountain is located in the 2,500 km² Strathcona Provincial Park, 24 km (15 mi) east of Gold River.

Above treeline, one has a view of the objective, a steep and dominant hornlike peak that presents parties with a variety of routes.

The route that leaves at the upper gravel flats is not in near as good shape, although if late in the year a dry stream bed can be followed for a large portion of the approach.

For many years there was speculation about whether or not Elkhorn, earlier known as Strathcona's Matterhorn, might be the highest mountain on the island.