Pink Lake Trail / Sentier Lac Pink image

Pink Lake Trail / Sentier Lac Pink

Tourist attraction Hiking area

One of the Best Places To Visits in Gatineau


Address

Gatineau Pkwy, Gatineau, Quebec J9J 3L3, Canada

Website

ncc-ccn.gc.ca

Contact

+1 819-827-2020

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (965 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: (New Year's Day), Open 24 hours, Hours might differ
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: trail (44) lake (38) hike (21) stairs (21) parking (20) beautiful (20) Gatineau (20) nice (17) park (17) walk (17)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Keyur T. 8 months ago on Google
    We parked our car at the Pink Lake Lookout parking lot and started our hike from there. The trail had many sets of stairs and some parts were a bit muddy, so make sure to wear good shoes for wet and muddy areas. The parking lot was full, and cars were parked along both sides of the street. The trail is really nice and takes a little more than an hour at a slow pace. The hike was really pretty and we recommend it to everyone. Note: When you're heading to the trail, park on the right side of the road where there's a little space to park. If you park on the left, you might get a ticket.
    13 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Todd M. 9 months ago on Google
    Trails are well marked. Make sure you get a map at the visitor centre. It’s quiet and out of cell range, which is perfect. bug spray is a must. Poison ivy is identified in the area so wear the proper clothing and shoes. the total hike from P6 to pink lake and back. Was 3 hrs. I rated this as a moderate trail because there are some areas that get steep. People take your trash out with you. I had picked up two Tim’s cups and a plastic water bottle thrown out on the trail. There are also trash cans in the lots.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nicholas L. 10 months ago on Google
    beautiful lake for photos and not a long hike (50 mins or so). it was an easy hike but i still got a good workout with the ups and downs on the trail
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Frank C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great location for fresh air and beautiful scenery during fall. the patch take roughly an hour and a half to two hours, depending on your speed. (dress for the weather). parking is limited and manage by city staff. bring snack and water
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neil G. 6 months ago on Google
    Such a beautiful wonder of nature. Pink lake is just breathtaking, photos won't do it justice - you need to see it with your own eyes! Be prepared for many staircases if you want the full experience of hiking the whole loop, plenty of fresh air & exercise. The best things in life are free and this place is one of them!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Patty C. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful clear Lake 👌 There is an intermediate trial with stairs. It's a great hike, make sure to wear appropriate shoes.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vivian H. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the best trails I have ever been. There is a parking near Mac Kenzi trail, and the lake has a loop which takes around 2 hours to finish. Very beautiful scenery. I am highly recommended!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sinan Y. 7 months ago on Google
    Pink Lake is an absolute must-see! If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. It feels like a gift from God. It’s a part from the heaven on earth. Forget about other trails you have seen in your life. ⛰️Don’t forget to take a lot of pictures 🏞️ especially in autumn 🍁 Highly recommended!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lermi A. 10 months ago on Google
    We parked our vehicle at the Pink Lake Lookout parking lot and commenced the hike from that point. The trail involved numerous flights of stairs and some areas with a bit of mud, so it's important to wear footwear suitable for damp and muddy conditions. All in all, the hike was incredibly scenic and highly recommended for anyone to experience.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pascale C. 1 year ago on Google
    A piece of heaven on earth! A must visit! The nature, the scenary, the lookout, the turquoise water, absolutely everything is breathtaking! The trail is nice and well maintained, not too dificult and includes a bunch of stairs here and there. It takes about 50 minutes to do the loop. I was lucky to see a snapping turtle, a couple of frogs. Parking available and you can park as well on the street leading to the lookout. Not stroller friendly. There are washrooms in the parking lot. Heads up before you go, check for the Gatineau park opening hours during summer otherwise you will have to park elsewhere and hike your way to the lookout.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gerard 'Marien' K. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice hiking loop around the lake with some beautiful views. Lots of stairs and well maintained. Usually busy on weekends. Parking nearby.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian M. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful, well maintained trail. Gentle slopes and stairs mean it's suitable for all the family but it can be slippy at times so pay attention. It takes approximately 40 minutes to complete the loop at a decent pace. Free parking, but a small parking lot... Expect to be parking along the road into the trail, it's not far though. Public "trail" washrooms if you can't hold it!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael F. 3 years ago on Google
    I’m sure the first joke people make when they get here is it’s not pink - more turquoise. (The name comes from the Pink family who settled here in the 1830s; the turquoise comes from the deeper waters here that have no oxygen - thanks, interpretive panels!) Clear signage for one way travel (Covid-19). The parking lot was inaccessible by car today but lots of people parked on the nearby road (chemin Notch) which is along the trail between Mackenzie King Estate and Pink Lake. Well maintained boardwalk trail around the lake. Beautiful oranges and reds.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zeynab A. 2 years ago on Google
    Most beautiful and perfect lake
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeff A. 10 months ago on Google
    Nice trail leading to the beautiful lake. Just be sure to watch small kids going down the trail. No guardrails and some parts have a pretty steep drop.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Camerafik 1 year ago on Google
    Very peaceful place (expect a lot of stairs). The parking is open for cars only on weekends and Wednesdays..
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lisa T. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful serene trail right around the whole lake. It is easy to walk just wear good grip runners. Even ok for young children it they can climb tall stairs and a few easy sloping hills. Walk takes about an hour.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shudip F. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful lake. It’s turquoise near the shore and sometimes in the shade. The water is nice and clean, and the trails are well maintained. Warning: lots of stairs
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark K. 2 years ago on Google
    An absolute amazing experience at this lake. The 2.5km trail is well maintained and the walk was very nice. A must to see with family and friends.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Julien C. 2 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Today Pink Lake in Gatineau Park via trail 15 from P6 (Domaine Makenzie-King) for a hike of about 11 km. Not easy to get there however because problems on Google Maps on my Android device but not on my girlfriend's iPhone? Then from the parking lot, how do you find trail 15? In short, beautiful discussions as a couple which have helped to strengthen our relationship. 🤕🌲🤪 (Original) Aujourd'hui le Lac Pink au Parc de la Gatineau via le sentier 15 à partir de P6 (Domaine Makenzie-King) pour une randonnée d'environ 11 km. Pas facile pour s'y rendre cependant car problèmes sur Google Maps sur mon appareil Android mais pas sur le iPhone de ma copine? Puis à partir du stationnement comment on trouve le sentier 15? Bref de belles discussions en couple qui ont permis de renforcer notre relation. 🤕🌲🤪
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nagalingam R. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome hiking place...God's gifted...
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Raj P. 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent trail. It’s around 2.5 km trail that goes around the lake. There are stairs and viewing platforms along the way. It’s not flat trail but it’s not that difficult either. There are two parking areas but it can be difficult to find parking if you go in weekend when weather is nice. Information posted about ecology of this rare lake is quite interesting.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harshal P. 11 months ago on Google
    One of the best places to visit in Gatineau Park. Involves a lot of walking and Jungle trek
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 CAMERA M. 3 years ago on Google
    COVID-19 protocol in place. One way walking traffic on the trail around the lake. Ice on wooden stairs!! :)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Elias S. 7 months ago on Google
    It’s a nice trail - u have to walk around 20 minutes from the place u park ur car. Then there is a trail all around the lake. You can just check the lake and go back, or walk the whole trail. The area is peaceful. Some ups and downs to reach the place but mainly flat. The lake is not pink but because Pink family was there it was named after them.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nui E. 3 years ago on Google
    In the Fall, Pink Lake in Gatineau Park is absolutely beautiful. The best time to go is in the morning on a sunny day. During Fall Rhapsody, the park may closed for cars during the weekend or some morning. If you walk or bike, it isn’t a problem. Check park’s schedule before you go.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniel T. 3 years ago on Google
    A very beautiful hike in the fall when the leaves are changing colors. I am told that in the winter you can rent snow shoes at the visitors center and there is also cross country skiing. I would recommend this park to anyone that enjoys the outdoors.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joel T. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome way to spend time with family/ friends in nature. Easy 45 minute walk. Bring a picnic. Just pickup after

  • 5/5 Jhun A. 1 year ago on Google
    Relaxing and nice to spend time with family. The place is clean and good place if you want to workout for your health. Highly recommend come here and experienced 1 of the best park here in gatineau.

  • 5/5 Brian B. 3 years ago on Google
    We had a great time out on this home today. Lots of places to take a break and despite the inclines it's not too difficult for kids. Dogs are not allowed. Shoreline is protected so you must stay on the trail.

  • 5/5 Jammin' With The B. 2 years ago on Google
    Great views makes for stunning pictures ! Take the family for a little picnic but be ready there are lots of stairs that take you both up and down hills! Enjoy!

  • 4/5 Jason W. 1 year ago on Google
    Hot day, good hike not to long a little challenging with all the stairs, less then 3 km loop good views of the lake.

  • 5/5 Tina E. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful lake and trail ! Better in the summer for greener colors, but I was there today and it was beautiful !

  • 5/5 mounir f. 2 years ago on Google
    Splendide view , very nice place to walk and enjoy the nature

  • 5/5 Kayla S. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful spot when it’s not crowded! Park can’t be very tricky but there free public transportation up to pink lake which was very nice. Hike is easy keep in mind lots of stairs. I would recommend to go early but either way it’s worth it!

  • 5/5 Nusrat S. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful

  • 3/5 Dorian B. 1 year ago on Google
    The Gatineau park is gorgeous and is an amazing place to go hike. However, the visit reductions it's a major turn off. Bicyclists and walkers can go anytime but you have to live close to the area to go by bicycle or walk there.

  • 5/5 Sophie C. 2 years ago on Google
    AMAZING lake!! So happy I stumbled upon this trail. The water's colour is so special, rare to see if you're not in western Canada. It's a nice small hike around the lake, a lot of stairs to go up and down on, but the views are magnificent and the lake is so calm that you see a perfect reflection of the sky and manage to see little fish through the water. Highly recommend!!

  • 5/5 Ehsan R. 1 year ago on Google
    This is one of the most beautiful sightseeing in ottawa and Gatineau. Walking around the lake is about one hour and every thing provided for a nice and easy tracking. Recommend in autumn very much. Big problem is the parking area which is very limited and especialy in weekend you have very low chance to find a spot. City need to consider this issue please.

  • 5/5 Sushi-Mcwasabi 寿司 m. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely place

  • 5/5 Andrew L. 1 year ago on Google
    Extremely busy area during the fall. Attempting to park took multiple attempts as there weren't shuttles running at the time we visited. The lake was beautiful and the walk provided many nice views. Much of the walk has boardwalk to it, but also has quite a few stairs, so may be strenuous for some. Though views are readily available at the start or the small lookout parking lot.

  • 5/5 A-L R. 2 years ago on Google
    Oct 20, 2021 I wasnt expecting it to be this busy for a wednesday afternoon. Parking lot full and all along both side of the street. Its a great trail, takes a little over 1 hour at a slow pace. Fall Colors are pretty but the peak is over. People need to be mindful and respect that there is a direction to the hike for Covid19 purposes. There are alot of stairs, up and down. Be prepared for a work out.

  • 4/5 Saba Ali S. 11 months ago on Google
    A lot to up and down the stairs, good for people who are okay with slightly challenging trek (up and down hill) The view is okay overall, the trek is around the lake with a few lookout spots.

  • 5/5 Richard S. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful and peaceful hike, but a bit crowded. Parking at the trailhead can sometimes be challenging. Lots of people on the trail. I would normally give it lower rating for the crowds, but the view and the beauty of the lake kind of outweigh that.

  • 5/5 Sebastien L. 8 months ago on Google
    Title: A Mycophile's Paradise: Exploring the Mushroom Diversity of Gatineau Park Venturing into the lush depths of Gatineau Park revealed a world teeming with an astonishing array of mushrooms that beckon both novice enthusiasts and seasoned mycophiles alike. This natural haven is a veritable treasure trove of fungal diversity, offering an enchanting opportunity to delve into the captivating world of mushrooms. As I embarked on my mushroom-hunting expedition, I was captivated by the sheer abundance and variety of these intriguing organisms. From delicate chanterelles to whimsical fairy rings, Gatineau Park boasts an impressive spectrum of mushroom species that truly showcases the wonders of nature's ingenuity. What sets Gatineau Park apart is not only the sheer number of mushroom species but also the captivating habitats in which they thrive. Whether nestled beneath towering conifers, nestled in the embrace of fallen leaves, or peeking out from the damp crevices of decaying logs, each mushroom seems to have found its own unique niche within the park's ecosystem. One cannot help but be drawn into the enchanting details of each mushroom's form, texture, and color. The park's diverse microclimates and soil types contribute to the remarkable variety of shapes and sizes on display. From the elegant symmetry of the fly agaric to the intricate lace-like patterns on puffballs, every sighting is a testament to the delicate balance of life within the forest. For those passionate about foraging and culinary exploration, Gatineau Park's mushroom diversity is a treasure trove of potential flavors and experiences. From edible chanterelles and porcini to the more elusive morels, the park provides a unique opportunity to gather and savor nature's bounty in a responsible and sustainable manner. Of course, it's essential to approach mushroom foraging with knowledge and caution, as not all mushrooms are safe for consumption. Engaging with local experts or utilizing field guides is highly recommended to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience. In summary, Gatineau Park stands as a mycophile's paradise, inviting all who enter its embrace to embark on a fascinating journey into the intricate and captivating world of mushrooms. With its remarkable diversity, stunning habitats, and potential culinary treasures, this park is a destination that offers an immersive and enriching exploration of nature's fungal wonders. Whether you're a curious observer, an aspiring forager, or a seasoned mushroom hunter, Gatineau Park promises a memorable and rewarding adventure that connects you with the hidden marvels of the forest floor.

  • 5/5 Hayam B. 3 years ago on Google
    Breathtaking views, especially during Fall Rhapsody. Well worth the visit every single time. Not physically taxing. Now wheelchair accessible. If you're driving, make sure to check the website for seadonal road closures.

  • 5/5 Andrew P. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful trail but you may be fighting for parking if you show up on a nice day

  • 3/5 Chris T. 3 years ago on Google
    I love pink lake but it is far too busy now, be careful of the times when the parking is open or you light have to hike your way up and back.

  • 5/5 Philippe S. 3 years ago on Google
    Paradise

  • 5/5 yolanda b. 3 years ago on Google
    Clockwise directional walking to prevent COVID-19 risk. Opens daily at noon.

  • 5/5 Saurabh S. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice small trail..very beautiful sply in fall

  • 4/5 Josee 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Beautiful (Original) Très beau

  • 5/5 Mohammad B. 3 years ago on Google
    It's an amazing experience

  • 5/5 Aaron F. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful

  • 5/5 Thobtech 3 years ago on Google
    Great park to take a stroll.

  • 5/5 Nicole H. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Always enjoyable hiking in Gatineau Park (Original) Toujours agréable les randonnée dans le parc Gatineau

  • 5/5 Tuxedo C. 3 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous. Photos speak for themselves

  • 5/5 Andre B. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The best Pho restaurant in Hull! Delicious and at a good price. (Original) Le meilleur resto Pho de Hull! Délicieux et à bon prix.

  • 5/5 Guillaume G. 3 years ago on Google
    Epic night run no 🔦

  • 5/5 Taegeun K. 3 years ago on Google
    👍

  • 5/5 Daniel A. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Cross-country skiing day. Beautiful trails, very well maintained in Gatineau Park #parcdelagatineau #gatineau (Original) Journée de ski de fond. Sentiers de toute beauté, très bien entretenu dans le Parc de la Gatineau #parcdelagatineau #gatineau

  • 5/5 Nick 3 years ago on Google
    Always a great time coming here, there's alot of steps going up and down but the trail bordering the lake is well maintained and provides a nice afternoon walk.

  • 5/5 Melissa M. 3 years ago on Google
    Easy walk, don't know that I would consider this a hike as almost the entire trail is built up with wood. Beautiful place if you can find a time where it is not bombarded with tourists.

  • 5/5 Harley D. 3 years ago on Google
    It's hard to believe you are minutes from the city at Pink Lake. This is British Colombia level beauty that is closer to Downtown Ottawa than most Suburbs of Ottawa. The trail that circumnavigates the lake is incredibly diverse, well maintained and beautiful. Expect to see a lot of small creatures on your way. The hike is not particularly strenuous and can be done with small children but it is still challenging in areas with a lot of stairs. There is a very cool area on the North side of the lake where you cross over a very deep pit into a Mica mine that is over 100 years old.

  • 5/5 James S. 3 years ago on Google
    Beauty trail around famous Pink Lake. Easy to do in team. Amazing picturesque views all around. Fresh air with tons of oxygen and forest smells is unique. Enjoy!

  • 5/5 Trent H. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely beautiful walk around the crystal clear water lake. A bit of a long walk (3.5km) from the nearest parking lot (P6), but well worth the effort.

  • 5/5 Cécile B. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Very beautiful but very busy even on a Monday not a holiday 😅 (Original) Très beau mais très achalandé même un lundi pas férié 😅

  • 5/5 Scott S. 2 years ago on Google
    The lake was beautiful. The hike was short but nice. Be warned about getting to the trail however. They close the roads at certain times (more like only open them at certain times) I believe it was 1pm they opened them when we went on a Sunday. Lucky we had some bikes on the back of the car so we just biked the last bit (which was still a bit far on mountain bikes)

  • 4/5 Frederick P. 3 years ago on Google
    So many stairs!? Nice view while walking, can get quite crowded on weekends.

  • 5/5 Eric B. 3 years ago on Google
    Gatineau Park may hold a number of lakes but Pink Lake stands out amongst these. Bordered by steep cliffs on three sides, Pink Lake is formed of water layers that do not mix. As a result of this and the presence of a layer of bacteria a few meters deep, the lake is largely void of oxygen below the layer of bacteria. With the disappearance of the Champlain sea, the waters filling what is now Pink Lake underwent a very slow process of desalinization. This slow process allowed a species of salt water fish to manage the transition to fresh water. This fish is unique to its waters Named after a family that settled around the lake in the early 19th century, Pink Lake is bordered by a boardwalk built to protect the lake from human activity. The walk is beautiful but the presence of numerous staircases implies a level of exercise. The loop around the lake takes about 1h30 to complete. Well worth it as you gaze at the scenic surroundings and the crystal clear turquoise coloured waters.

  • 5/5 Carole C. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Always so pleasant to do while walking quietly it is done in about 1 hour (Original) Toujours aussi agréable à faire en marchant tranquillement ça se fait en 1h environ

  • 4/5 Jean-Yves B. 3 years ago on Google
    Interesting phenomenon!

  • 5/5 Max S. 3 years ago on Google
    2/3 of the trail is up and down 1/3 is flatter around parts of the trail. Nice easy hike with some great views.

  • 5/5 Raul R. 3 years ago on Google
    It has spectacular views.

  • 5/5 Darine Abou A. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful! :) we enjoyed nature while walking on the designated Trail. We spent a great time! If you have kids and wondering if you should take the stroller along.... Don't :D

  • 5/5 Phil C. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the best short hikes in the park, very picturesque

  • 5/5 Aissam M. 2 years ago on Google
    Great hile ! Amazing views. We loved it

  • 5/5 Vu P. 3 years ago on Google
    Definitely place to go in fall.

  • 5/5 Bernadette B. 3 years ago on Google
    Always a joy to be here!

  • 5/5 Martin L. 3 years ago on Google
    Really nice trail in the Parc de la Gatineau. Several trails are access. Only drawback is parking

  • 5/5 Mehdi A. 3 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous place

  • 5/5 Vincent M. 3 years ago on Google
    Super nice trail, not really long, but great for a mid-day walk! The trail is really easy, lots of stairs, and even on a rainy day, its not slippery at all.

  • 5/5 Chantal T. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Safe and beautiful. (Original) Sécuritaire et de toute beauté.

  • 5/5 Mike A. 3 years ago on Google
    I remember my highschool English teacher bringing her students to this place for inspiration to help with creative writing. It worked!

  • 4/5 William B. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and scenic with awesome colors especially in the autumn 🍂. Covid rules not being listen to was frustrating though during the walk around the lake.


Call +1 819-827-2020 Open on Google Maps

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Tourist attractions nearby

Canadian Museum of History image
1
Canadian Museum of History
History museum
Museum chronicling Canadian culture & history, with an IMAX theater & separate children's museum.
4.60 (11.4K reviews)
Jacques-Cartier Park image
2
Jacques-Cartier Park
Park
23-hectare park, site of the Winterlude festival (Feb), offering recreational paths & river views.
4.40 (4.9K reviews)
Parc des Cèdres image
3
Parc des Cèdres
Park
Dogs allowed
4.60 (2.1K reviews)
Canadian Children's Museum image
4
Canadian Children's Museum
Children's museum
Playful children's museum offering hands-on exhibitions, costumes, artifacts, toys & games.
4.70 (1.8K reviews)
Altitude Gym image
5
Altitude Gym
Rock climbing gym
👍👍 While we didn’t climb here (the kids were next door at Clip n Climb), I definitely wanted to check out the adult side of gym. Lots of walls at different difficulties and bouldering walls and it was quiet and not busy!
4.70 (1.5K reviews)
Last updated:
()