Geological formations can generally be clearly seen in Western Cape mountains, but erosional processes in the Cedarberg appear to have advanced one step further, fashioning a bizarre landscape highlighted by such famous natural rock sculptures as the Maltese Cross and the Wolfberg Arch. Another unusual species found in the Cedarberg is the Clanwilliam cedar, Widdringtonia cedarbergensis, after which the mountain range is named. Over-exploitation and uncontrolled burning threatened the tree with extinction, but today the Clanwilliam cedar is protected in this wilderness area. It is hoped that fewer fires and careful management will foster its growth. Animal life is diverse in species but not high in numbers, as a result of the low breeding rate, the reasons for which are not yet clear.
Mammals commonly seen include baboon, dassie, grey rhebok and klipspringer.
Cape leopard are present, and are protected within an area which extends beyond the wilderness area, but hikers are unlikely to see them. Geckos, lizards and agamas are commonly seen on the rocks. Mountaineers and environmentalists almost lost the Cedarberg to the National Parks Board in 1984, when that organization planned to develop a recreational complex in the wilderness. At the time, the concerted efforts of an outraged public who preferred to see the Cedarberg and its surrounding private land survive as an example of an unspoilt environment, won a tense political battle. However, it seems the area is destined to remain controversial.