The Appalachian Mountains were extensively timbered in the early twentieth century leaving logging roads that are becoming overgrown but still passable.,[6] Old logging roads and railroad grades can be located by consulting the historical topographic maps available from the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The Little Dry Run Wilderness Addition is covered by USGS topographic maps Speedwell and Cedar Springs.

About 1/3 of the area, with colluvial drainages, toeslopes and stream floodplains, has a rich habitat that supports yellow poplar, northern red oak, white oak, basswood, cucumber tree, white ash, eastern hemlock, and red maple.

[3] There are 128 acres of possible old growth forests; three small tracts south of Panther Knob and several along the border on Iron Mountain.

[2] As part of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains Subsection within the Central Appalachian Broadleaf Coniferous Forest-Meadow Province, there are tectonic uplifted mountain ranges composed of igneous and metamorphic rock with many high gradient, deeply incised streams.

[3][4] The Forest Service has conducted a survey of their lands to determine the potential for wilderness designation.

The rule provided some degree of protection by reducing the negative environmental impact of road construction and thus promoting the conservation of roadless areas.

[2] Hale Lake and Comers Rock Campground are recreational resources adjacent to the area.

[3] A survey for cultural resources within 151 acres of the area found two prehistoric transient camps and a historic cabin complex.