In the southern Absarokas you'll find broad, flat-topped mountains and plateaus separating narrow valleys that have been deeply incised with exposed volcanic strata. This volcanic material lies primarily horizontal and has been eroded into irregular steplike cliffs and buttes. The Pinnacles around Brooks Lake are unique geological formations, containing petrified forests and many fossils of long-gone plants and animals. They are among the most attractive attributes of this area. Elevations range from about 6,600 feet to 13,153 feet, and peaks exceeding 12,000 feet are scattered throughout the Wilderness.
Large portions are rough and barren, and vegetation is sparse.
Approximately half the area is forested. With fewer lakes than the Wind River Mountains, the fishing is less active here, but large streams do support trout. Nonetheless, the wildlife population and diversity is extraordinary. Hunters come for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and black bears. Grizzly bears are numerous and on the increase.