Vast plateaus are present up to 2,500 m. The slopes are characterized by steep valleys and gorges, carved out by rivers such as the Orfento, the Foro and others.

[2] The area of the Montagna della Maiella has been subject to a major international geoscientific research Project, TaskForceMajella, from 1998 up to 2005.

Along the northern slope of the mountain for thousands of years, hydrocarbon extraction has occurred from spontaneous seepages and shallow wells.

[3] The Maiella, particularly the Blockhaus peak, is a popular ride for amateur cyclists and is also sometimes used for a stage of the Giro d'Italia.

The most recent inclusion of the Blockhaus on the Giro d'Italia was on 15 May 2022, when the stage was won by the Australian rider Jai Hindley.