From the Ramu Valley, the ridge runs NNW, and the highest point is located at 145°44.23'E:5°46.36'S.

The ridge was named after an Australian soldier, Captain Robert "Shaggy Bob" Clampett, commander of "A" Company, 2/27th Infantry Battalion, the first Allied ground unit to reconnoitre the area during World War II.

[1] Shaggy Ridge was the site of several battles during the Finisterre Range campaign of 1943–1944.

The ridge was the site of major Japanese defensive positions, blocking access from the Ramu Valley to the north coast of New Guinea.

In December 1943, the Australian 7th Division attacked; the difficult terrain made this a famous campaign which did not end until the last Japanese positions were captured in January.