The canyon is located within the Coronado National Forest, and encompasses a wide variety of flora and fauna, ranging from lush pine forest in the canyon's upper reaches to Sonoran Desert cactus forest in the lower reaches.

Catalina Highway was cut into the western side of the lower part of the canyon.

[1] At the bottom of Molino Canyon is Molino Creek, a seasonal stream that flows southwest over large granite outcroppings, forming a series of small waterfalls and pools.

Stream-flow is greatest in the spring, as the winter snow melts, and during the monsoon season.

The banks of the creek are lined with willow, cottonwood and Arizona sycamore trees.