Topographic relief is significant as the northeast aspect rises 3,300 feet (1,000 meters) above Forest Canyon in 1.5 mile.

Inspired by a lake, he chanted a Cahuilla ghost dance song with the lyrics "terra toma", which was popular among students at Pomona College where he attended.

[5] The president of the club, James Grafton Rogers, submitted the name for the lake to the federal government for consideration.

[3] David Prescott Barrows, who worked with the Cahuilla and taught the song to the college students, was unable to obtain the meaning of the words.

[8] Due to its altitude, it receives precipitation all year, as snow in winter, and as thunderstorms in summer, with a dry period in late spring.