The species is endemic to the Western United States and British Columbia.

[7][8] The sharp-tailed snake has an average total length (including tail) of 12–18 in (30–46 cm) as an adult.

[9] The sharp-tailed snake is a shy, secretive creature most often encountered under rocks and logs, and rarely to never found in the open.

It is known to burrow into soft soil or cracks in the clay, and may be encountered by people who are digging in the garden or removing concrete.

[9] The adult female C. tenuis lays 4–16 eggs in the summer, underground or in a burrow.