The mountain was named in honor of Oliver Gibbs, a professor at Harvard University and friend of Josiah Whitney.

[8][9] The peak is accessible either from the west, starting at Tioga Pass Road, or from the east, via Bloody Canyon from the trailhead at Walker Lake.

Overnight camping is not permitted on the western side of the mountain, which is part of the protected watershed of Dana Meadows and Tioga Pass.

Although the top is above the tree line, there is some sparse plant life, including wildflowers.

The view of Mono Lake from the summit is partially obstructed by an outcropping to the northeast.