[1] The river drains a portion of the Nechako Plateau—a gently rolling region characterized by small lakes and tributaries.

Low but impressive ridges interact with the river, creating high bluffs and hoodoos.

The Stuart River flows generally south and east for 187 kilometres (116 mi), collecting numerous small tributary streams.

[10] According to oral tradition Chinlac, an important Dakelh village on the Stuart River, was destroyed around 1745 by Tsilhqot'in raiders from Nazko.

The Stuart River's watershed is forested with lodgepole pine, spruce, cottonwood, aspen, Douglas fir, and some birch.

The river supports sturgeon and one of the highest-quality wild sockeye salmon runs in the world.