The snow is melting, the breeze is getting warmer, and the days are getting longer! If you’re eager to get outside and explore all that Cochrane has to offer in the summer months, we’ve got all the best places to go and what to do to make your summer a memorable one.
Prep your gravel bikes, fishing poles, and camping equipment—warm weather is right around the corner! Try out these 5 activities for a season of wonder.
1. Check off a portion of the Trans Canada Trail in Alberta
The historic Trans Canada Trail in Alberta showcases 1,700 km of natural beauty. Grab your bike or lace up your hiking boots and plan your route with Alberta TrailNet and their Trans Canada Trail map for year-round adventures through diverse landscapes.
Start with an easy and scenic 2.2-km jaunt down Bearspaw Trail. The path winds along the north bank of the mighty Bow River, and connects the west side of Calgary’s Haskayne Park with Michael’s Creek in Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park.
2. Reel one in at Ghost River
Your next big fish tale is at the crystal clear waters of Ghost River. The river flows from the front ranges of the Canadian Rocky Mountains to join the Bow River at Ghost Lake, which can be found immediately west of Cochrane. You’re likely to reel in lake trout, mountain whitefish, rainbow trout, westlope cutthroat trout, white sucker, burbot, and brook trout. Before you bait your line, don’t forget your fishing license!
3. Sweat it out on gravel bikes
Pedal hard! Hop on a gravel bike for a technical and enjoyable challenge that blurs the lines between road riding and mountain biking. There are plenty of routes for you to explore on gravel bikes right from town, with many 2- to 3-hour loops with very light or no traffic to interrupt your pace.
Check out Gravel Maps for local routes before you hit the road. For a 40 to 50-km route, head south along Towers Trail and turn east onto Township Road 252. Take Range Road 41 for a shorter 40-km ride, or aim for the full 50 km by continuing on to Range Road 40. You’ll want wide tires for a smoother ride.
4. Change your perspective on horseback
Saddle up, cowpoke! Whether you’re a riding beginner or a seasoned pro, Saddle Peak Trail Rides will have you feeling comfortable with your equine guides. Learn the basics with a 1- to 2-hour ride, or experience the full awe of the Canadian Rocky Mountains on horseback with an unforgettable multi-day trip off the beaten path.
Discover a new point of view from the backs of these gentle giants as you traverse picturesque grasslands and foothills. End your trip with a lodge ridge to The Crossing at Ghost River, Ya Ha Tinda, or Panther Dormer Region.
5. Go off-grid with backcountry camping in Alberta
Pitch a tent with the most insane views of the mountains! Sitting around a fire, roasting marshmallows under a star-spangled sky will never be the same after you experience backcountry camping in Alberta, especially the Cochrane area.
While there are plenty of campgrounds for a taste of the great outdoors, crown land camping provides you with a more secluded and private experience to connect with nature. Take a look at the 19 Public Land Use Zones and once you’ve chosen your destination, pick up your Public Lands Camping Pass.
Rekindle your love of Cochrane
Don’t let summer slip away without immersing yourself in the wonderful sights and sounds of the area. Plan your adventures with us today, so you’ll be ready when the sun shines!
