The peak is situated 1.6 miles (2.6 km) southwest of Whittier, Alaska, in Chugach National Forest, at the isthmus of the Kenai Peninsula where the Kenai Mountains meet the Chugach Mountains.

Although modest in elevation, topographic relief is significant since the summit rises from sea-level of Passage Canal in 1.6 miles (2.6 km).

Shakespeare Shoulder is often seen and photographed with Bard Peak because they are in the background behind Portage Lake, a popular tourist and recreation destination.

The mountain's toponym was officially adopted in 1977 by the United States Board on Geographic Names.

The months of May and June offer the most favorable weather for viewing and climbing this mountain.