Primarily fed through the Gull River System (originating in Haliburton Highlands) as well as through naturally occurring cold springs along the lake floor, Balsam Lake is touted as having the cleanest, clearest water on the Trent Severn. As the highest elevated point on the Trent, water flows out of both of it’s connecting locks – Lock 36 in Kirkfield to the West, and Lock 35 in Rosedale to the East. Water levels are regulated by Parks Canada, with levels remaining relatively stable through the year – highest in the spring, and lowest in the fall.

The “H” shape of the lake, with Grand Island at the center, gives Balsam Lake four distinct bays and an abundance of shoreline. Balsam Lake features approximately 1,600 homes and cottages, with frontages ranging from 40ft to just over 400ft. The average property will have about 100ft of frontage, on 1 acre of land. Most properties are level, with sandy or rocky shoreline – excellent for swimming right off the dock. The lake is approximately 16km long and 3km wide, with a maximum depth of 53 feet.

A diverse shoreline also provides diverse habitats for local wildlife. Expect to see loons, heron, bever, muskrat, and the occasional swan grace the waterfront. Cottagers near larger, less densely populated parcels of land and forest may also see bears, moose, and deer, although much less frequently. In the winter, watch for coyotes and foxes as they traverse the frozen lake.