It is characterized by quiet pools dispersed with riffles and runs. Numerous scenic wooded high bluffs are interspersed with pastoral settings along much of the river. The stream has over 1 million people within short driving distance. It is presently under study for inclusion in State Scenic Rivers System. Has state endangered species cob shell, club shell, northern riffle shell, Simpsons shell, river redhorse, northern brook lamprey, Scioto madtom, northern madtom, tippecanoe darter, spotted darber, blacknose shiner, eastern darter and slender darter.
Threatened species streamline chub, bluebreast darter.
Flows in part through hilly area with steep hills and graduated valley. Numerous rock out-croppings and very large rocks. Good recreational river used for outdoor nature study. Low waterfalls and caves. Old dam, gristmill and Indian burial ground at Elyria.