[1] The formation consists mostly of cyclic marine sandstone and siltstone, but with interfingering tongues of gray limestone (the Getaway, South Wells,[2] and Manzanita Members).

Maximum thickness of the Cherry Canyon Formation is 400 meters (1,300 ft).

All three carbonate members grade into sandstone channel deposits deeper in the basin.

[3] The formation contain abundant fish fossils, such as sharks' teeth, preserved within small phosphatic nodules.

[5] Ostracods have been identified in the Getaway Member, including Amphissites, Aurikirkbya, Ceratobairdia, Polytylites, and Roundyella.