There are many species of birds and several reptiles. Otter Creek is also the home to a small population of brook trout and salamanders. This hardwood rich area is ideal for hiking, backpacking and primitive camping. This semi-primitive area consists of approximately 13,532 acres on top of the plateau. Since Canaan Mountain is relatively flat, there are many seasonally wet places.
Vegetation consists of second-growth hardwoods, rhododendren and mosses.
Elevations range from 4,145 feet at Pointy Knob to 3,100 feet at Blackwater Falls State Park. The Canaan Loop Road is about 18 miles long and is good for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. The road makes a loop from Rt. 32 to Blackwater Falls State Park. The trail system is mostly marked with blue blazes and signs, although they may be overgrown in spots.