The lake was named this because of its light-colored bluffs overlooking the water. It is surrounded by Pena Blanca Canyon in the Pajarito Mountain foothills and offers year round water recreation. The lake is a beautiful 49 acre lake and is at an elevation of 4,000 feet. Pena Blanca Lake was built in 1957, by the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
Fishing is an obviously the most popular activity at the lake.
Fishermen will find bass, catfish, rainbow trout, bluegill and crappie. There are other activities that are popular at Pena Blanca Lake. Bird watching, photography and hiking are some of the best ways to enjoy the lake. The Pena Blanca Trail is a fairly level path that follows the shoreline most of the two mile route around the lake. Visitors need to be prepared for cool weather in the winter months.