Lake Barron, in the municipality of Gore in the heart of the Laurentians, is one of the best-kept secrets in the southern Laurentians. Just 55 minutes from Montreal, it offers the rare combination of a navigable lake, water up to 33.9 metres deep, and an environment that's still relatively undeveloped.
Lake Barron in numbers
- Area: about 0.888 km²
- Maximum depth: 33.9 m
- Mean depth: 10.9 m
- Elevation: 282 m above sea level
- MRC: Argenteuil, Laurentians region
Its depth makes it one of the deepest lakes in the southern Laurentians, which means colder, clearer water in summer, perfect for swimming.
Boating on Lake Barron: what's allowed
Unlike many small Laurentian lakes where motor boats are forbidden, Lake Barron allows electric and low-power gas motors. In practice:
- Low-power motorboats
- Electric motorboats (no limit)
- Non-motorized: kayak, paddleboard, canoe, rowboat
- Forbidden: high-power gas motors, jet skis, water-ski boats
The vibe stays calm and family-friendly. The lake isn't a playground for loud watersports — that's precisely what makes it a refuge.
Summer activities
Swimming (cold but crystalline), fishing (smallmouth bass, pike, perch), kayak/paddle around the lake (~30 min full loop), sunsets from the dock with friends.
Winter activities
- Natural skating rink (lake freezes from late December to mid-March)
- Snowshoeing along the shoreline
- Ice fishing
- Spa under the snow with the frozen lake as backdrop
Where to stay on Lake Barron
Lakefront chalet rentals on Lake Barron are relatively rare. Barron Lakehouse is a brand-new 2025 chalet with private dock, four-season hot tub and 4 bedrooms, on the eastern shore. Rates and availability.
Quick FAQ
Is Lake Barron really navigable?
Yes — electric and low-power gas motors allowed. No water-skiing or jet skis.
How far from Montreal?
About 55 minutes via Highway 15 then Route 327.