These streams commonly flash flood during periods of heavy rain. From the mouth of Otter Creek the terrain rises to about 3,900 feet on McGowan Mountain. Logged off from 1897 to 1914, a second growth forest has returned to cover the area, and has been joined by dense thickets of rhododendron and mountain laurel along the streams and a variety of mosses in damper regions. Spruce dominate the higher country and give way to hardwoods such as black cherry and yellow birch lower down. Black bears have returned, and have been reunited with white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, hares, rabbits, grouse and several species of squirrels.
Beavers are active in several spots.
Timber rattlesnakes may be seen, and Otter Creek houses a small population of brook trout. On 42 miles of trails, many following old railroad grades, you can explore the Wilderness. The longest and most used path is Otter Creek Trail, over 11 miles long, which follows Otter Creek with bridge access across Dry Fork River on the north end. Once on the trail you'll have to ford the creek several times. Click here to find out how.