Flowing along the base of steep canyon slopes, the upper reaches of the renowned Margaree River are protected by the Margaree River Wilderness Area.

The steep slopes reaching down to the river form a wide and undulating canyon complex containing climax deciduous and mixed wood forests, inhabited by rare and unique plants and animals. The wilderness area also protects much of the upper Margaree watershed, which is important in supporting the provincially-significant salmon run.

In addition to spectacular viewing from the canyon rim, the wilderness area offers opportunities for wilderness hiking along the base of the steep escarpments, to visit various waterfalls and side canyons.

In 1998, the Margaree River, along with Lake Ainslie, was designated as a Canadian Heritage River, and is currently being managed in a partnership between Nova Scotia Environment and a regional Stewardship Committee.