[1] The lake is a remnant of Pliocene volcanism on the Mogollon Rim[2] but it has been artificially extended as a reservoir for downstream irrigation plus trout and ice fishing (though an $9 tribal licence is required to fish on the reservation).

Its popularity as a recreational area is enhanced by a nearby ski resort.

Owing to its high elevation, Hawley Lake has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dsb) and stands as one of the coldest and wettest places in Arizona.

Rainfall from July to September is also high, though not exceptional compared to many parts of southeastern Arizona.

It also holds the record for most precipitation in a calendar year in Arizona with 58.92 inches (1,496.6 mm) in 1978 – much of that being snow.