The pass is at an elevation of 1,154 metres (3,786 ft) and is located 19 kilometres (12 mi) southwest of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi.

[1] The pass is the highest point of the famous Milford Track connecting Lake Te Anau and the Clinton River valley with the Arthur River valley and Milford Sound / Piopiotahi.

McKinnon had been commissioned by the chief surveyor of Otago to find a route from Te Anau to Milford Sound.

[4] The name was officially changed in July 2022, correcting the spelling and adding the Māori name to form the dual name Omanui / McKinnon Pass.

There is a day shelter at the top of the pass for hikers to use as a rest point and for use in emergencies.