It is situated 3.1 mi (5.0 km) northwest of Colquhoun Peak and five miles west of the crest of the Cascade Range.

Topographic relief is significant as the west aspect rises 3,000 feet (910 meters) above Rock Creek in one mile.

Access is via the 1.7-mile Kelly Butte Trail which leads to a restored, historical fire lookout tower originally constructed in 1926 and occupies the summit.

Flora along the trail includes lilies, bear grass, Indian paintbrush, penstemon, arnica, columbine, lupine, phlox, and huckleberry.

[1] Kelly Butte is located in the marine west coast climate zone of western North America.