These mountains can be approached from a popular, unmaintained trail off NY 73 which provides access to a slide scramble up East Dix.

[3] As a result, the tops and upper slopes of the mountains not only lost their forest cover but the humus was also consumed and the mineral soil eroded down to bare rock.

The steep, rugged terrain, characteristic of nearly the whole area, has been responsible for the region's retaining a wilderness atmosphere.

Approximately 3,269 acres (13 km2) became part of the Dix Mountain Wilderness as a result, including the following summits: Noonmark, Bear Den, Dial, Colvin, and Pinnacle.

In 2013, New York State acquired a 1,450-acre parcel on the western boundary of the Dix Mountain Wilderness Area known as the Casey Brook Tract.