Swimming (Laps)

Season: fall 2026. Drop-in swimming at Lucien-Houle Aquatic Centre, in the wading pool (28.8°C / 84°F) or the 25 m pool (27.8°C / 82°F). Salt-water electrolysis is used to produce chlorine. No reservation is required. Admission is free with a valid Accès Gatineau + card. Non-member rates effective September 1, 2026: $7.50 for participants under 18; $15 for adults aged 18–64; $7.50 for participants aged 65 and over. Lap swimming is reserved for people who can swim 50 m continuously and follow the lap-swim courtesy rules throughout their time in the water. There is no minimum age, but children aged 15 or under must be accompanied by an adult. Choose a lane suited to your speed, keep right, do not stop in the middle, pass on the left only when the opposite direction is clear, and move to the sides during a break. The recreational pool, diving boards and slide are closed during lap swimming. Showering and wearing a swimsuit are mandatory before entering the water; cotton clothing is not allowed in the pool. Children who wear diapers must use a diaper designed for swimming. A child aged 7 or under must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or caregiver aged 16 or over. That person must remain in the water within one metre of the child unless the child passes a 25 m swim test; even after passing, the child must remain accompanied and supervised, although the adult may stay out of the water. A child aged 8 or over may swim without supervision if taller than 125 cm; if shorter than 125 cm, the child must be able to swim 25 m comfortably. Private lessons are not permitted; open practice only. Respect other users, posted rules and lifeguard instructions. Additional rules may be introduced when needed for safety.