[4] The peak is situated near the toe of the Mendenhall Glacier, within Tongass National Forest, 11 mi (18 km) north-northwest of Juneau, Alaska, and 6 mi (10 km) north of Juneau International Airport.

Although modest in elevation, relief is significant since the mountain rises up from sea level at Auke Bay in less than five miles.

The mountain's name was officially adopted in 1930 by the United States Geological Survey[4] McGinnis Mountain takes its name from McGinnis Creek, which drains its northern slopes.

This climate supports the Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau Icefield to the mountain's east.

May and June are the best months for climbing in terms of catching favorable weather.