Topographic relief is significant as it rises approximately 1,500 feet (460 meters) above Hitchcock Lakes in less than one-half mile.

The first ascent of the summit was made in September 1881, by Frederick H. Wales via the west slope.

[8] Most weather fronts originate in the Pacific Ocean, and travel east toward the Sierra Nevada mountains.

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

Precipitation runoff from this mountain drains west to the Kern River via Whitney Creek.