Much of the higher terrain is classified as alpine and characterized by large cirque basins and exposed rocky ridges. Dense mountain brush mixed with sagebrush and grass dominates the vegetation. There are stands of firs and aspen in isolated patches on some north-facing slopes. You'll also find a few small lakes. Extreme temperatures are common, with a typical 50-degree difference between summer highs and lows.
Snow remains in some regions until midsummer.
State Route 190 follows Big Cottonwood Creek along the northern boundary and separates this Wilderness from Mount Olympus Wilderness to the north. State Route 210 follows Little Cottonwood Creek along the southern boundary and stands between Twin Peaks and Lone Peak Wilderness to the south. The canyons of both these creeks are highly scenic, and you'll find trailheads along both routes. Trails are easy to follow, but they become extremely strenuous in the higher country. No camping is allowed within 200 feet of a water source or a trail.