The refuge was established in 1939 and consists of mountainous forested area interspersed with grasslands, the refuge encompasses about 41,000 acres at elevations ranging from 1800 to 6000 feet. There are scattered cultivated tracts, two small lakes, and many miles of mountain streams. The primary wildlife being protected are large mammals, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, lynx, and black bear. There is also a wide variety of bird life, principally upland and forest types.
Recreation uses include wildlife observation, study, and photography, fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, and eastern brown trout, hunting for big game and upland birds, and camping, hiking, and horseback riding.
The refuge is located 13 miles southeast of Colville.
