Geology: This canyon was once covered by a large glacier. As the glacier moved down the canyon, a cirque (hollow) was formed, leaving a basin in which melting snow accumulates forming Meadow Lake. At 10,720 feet, Meadow Lake Peak towers above the lake. The predominate white-tannish rock in this area ate quartzites.
Wildlife: Mule deer and mountain goats are the primary big game animals in this area. Look for mountain goats on the nearby mountain slopes and ridge tops. Early in the morning or towards evening deer may be seen while driving back through the forested canyon bottom.
Mining: This portion of the Lemhi Mountain range is highly mineralized. Varying amounts of lead and silver have been found in the local area. Mining shafts, tunnels, and structures are found throughout the canyon. In earlier days, nearby douglas fir was cut for mine props used to reinforce mining tunnels.