Mount Lincoln is located two miles south of Donner Pass at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, on land managed by Tahoe National Forest.

The Pacific Crest Trail traverses the east slope of the peak, providing an approach option from Donner Pass.

Lincoln was interested in California and joining the Donner Party, but decided not to go because of his wife, toddler son, and new political career as a congressman.

The Sierra Nevada posed a big obstacle to the project, and Theodore Judah decided a route for the railroad was best through Donner Pass as it required only one summit crossing rather than the two of other possible options.

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