Summer populations of steelhead attract anglers. The area is noted for its great diversity of plant life, and includes one of the world's largest concentrations of lily species and perhaps as many as 20 species of conifers. Forage is limited, and stock users are advised to carry feed. Summers are usually very warm, but cold can strike any night of the year and severe storms are common year-round. The Clear Creek National Recreation Trail crosses 20.5 miles of the northern portion and provides access to some of the more scenic parts of the Wilderness.
Human use is light and concentrated on the trails that lead to lakes.
Much of the area lacks trails and is difficult to access cross country because of the dense brush. Many authorities on the subject suspect Bigfoot could be hiding out in the untrammeled regions.