It has a high concentration of novice to advanced whitewater stretches mixed with calm flatwater, in all 20 sets of rapids, rated CI to CIII that can be run all season.

[6] It was established in 2000 and protects an outstanding water route that provides recreational paddling opportunities.

[5][8] The eastern side of the park abuts the 1,343 hectares (3,320 acres) Holdridge Creek Conservation Reserve.

[5] Mostly white cedar and yellow birch are found along the upper portions of the river, with mature or old pine/mixed hardwood stands on the valley slopes.

The Red Cedar and Thistle Lakes area typically contains old-growth pine forests, as well as black ash swamps, with mixed and tolerant hardwood uplands.