Bordered by the Canadian Rocky Mountains and the big city lights of Calgary on the other, the historic downtown of Cochrane is brimming with western charm. Country music, wooden ranches and annual festivals showcase the rich culture, while the natural beauty of Banff National Park beckons.
Things to do in Cochrane
One of the best ways to experience the magnificent Rocky Mountains is to ride horseback through the Eastern Slopes of Banff National Park with Saddle Peak Trail Rides. If you’re after an action-packed adventure, nothing beats white-water rafting down Kananaskis River to witness Horseshoe Canyon.
If you’re keen to explore on foot, check out the nature trails at Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park. Panoramic views of the beautiful Bow River Valley await on the Badger Bowl Trail, while the Tiger Lily Loop rewards with wildflowers and a canopy of cypress trees. Keep an eye out for wild elk, moose and deer.
For family fun, head to Calaway Park, western Canada’s largest amusement park. Experience the thrill of plummeting 12 meters on Free Fallin, before braving the twists and turns of the Vortex. To experience the local western culture through the eyes of Canada’s early settlers, farmers and ranchers, visit the Cochrane Historical Museum.
Golfers can tee off at Kananaskis Ranch Brewster’s Golf, a world-class 18-hole course offering remarkable views of the Alberta Rocky Mountains, while animal lovers can encounter wild wolves at the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary. Take an interactive tour to get close to the wolves and learn about this fascinating species.
Getting around Cochrane
Cochrane is 30 minutes’ drive from Calgary International Airport, with rental cars and taxis available for transport. The town is easily explored on foot or by bicycle, while a car is best for venturing further afield.