The peak is situated in Chugach National Forest, rising above the Resurrection River and Resurrection Bay, 3.3 mi (5 km) south of Resurrection Peaks, 2.35 mi (4 km) north of Marathon Mountain, and 3.1 mi (5 km) northwest of Seward, Alaska.

Originally named Iron Mountain, the mountain's name was officially changed in 1974 by the United States Geological Survey to honor Benny Benson (1913-1972), who at age 13 designed Alaska's flag in 1927, as a student in Seward.

[3] Based on the Köppen climate classification, Mount Benson is located in a subarctic climate zone with long, cold, snowy winters, and mild summers.

This climate supports a spruce and hemlock forest on the lower slopes.

The months May and June offer the most favorable weather for viewing.