About half of the precipitation arrives during the summer months. The growing season ranges from 106 to 121 days. There are over 35 lakes at least 160 acres in size in this subsection. Most are found on the Nashwauk Moraine. The Continental Divide cuts right across the summit of Giant's Range.
Water flowing north eventually goes into Hudson Bay.
On the west side, waters flow into the Mississippi River watershed. To the south, water flows into Lake Superior. Larger rivers in the subsection include the Embarrass, the Pike, the Temperance, the Dark, and the Bear Rivers. Wetland vegetation included conifer bogs and swamps and open muskeg. There are extensive areas of forested public land which are managed for wood products and recreation.