This Montreal-area hike leads to a turquoise lake surrounded by fall colours — with one little secret

Looking for a fall adventure?

With the autumn colours starting to peak, there’s no better time to explore the hiking trails in and around Montreal—or hit the road for a fall-friendly road trip.

Only a short drive from Montreal, this easy, family-friendly hike leads to a stunning turquoise lake framed by fiery red and gold foliage.

Pink Lake in Gatineau Park, located about 2 and a half hour drive from downtown Montreal, is one of just 58 meromictic lakes in Canada where the bottom and surface waters never mix. 

What is Pink Lake’s secret? 

Most people think that’s it’s all in the name. 

Pink Lake is named after the Pink family who settled in the area in 1826. 

Despite its name, the lake is actually turquoise, thanks to microscopic algae. 

But the lake's true "secret" or unique characteristic is its unusual layering of water—a rare phenomenon that scientists study.

Pink Lake is a rare meromictic lake, meaning its water layers never mix, unlike most lakes that circulate in spring and fall. 

A dense layer of water separates the levels, preserving unique organisms. And because of its fragile ecosystem, swimming, dogs, and boats are prohibited. 

This rare phenomenon makes Pink Lake an ecologically significant part of Gatineau Park.

How long does it take to hike Pink Lake?

Expect to hike 2.5 km on a well-maintained trail, though it’s not wheelchair accessible. 

There are also several sturdy stairways to help hikers navigate the trail’s steep bluffs.

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