Elk Canyon follows the Elk River, featuring some steep sections and others with nicely graded terrain. The northeastern end features a series of over 20 switchbacks that lead to the high point. Along the river, there are mining ruins and numerous dispersed campsites. The water in Elk Creek is mineral-rich, with red sections indicating rust and chalky white sections indicating what could be mineral calcium carbonate, but also speculated to be mining runnoff, so drink sparingly.