Topographic relief is significant as the summit rises 2,800 feet (853 m) above Heather Creek in approximately one mile.

[7] Foss died of a heart attack while climbing Mount St. Helens with his 18-year-old son Lynn on July 14, 1974.

[8] Hal Foss Peak is located in the marine west coast climate zone of western North America.

As fronts approach, they are forced upward by the peaks (orographic lift), causing them to drop their moisture in the form of rain or snow.

[9] The months July through September offer the most favorable weather for climbing Hal Foss Peak.