Life is a highway! There’s nothing like cruising along winding country roads, surrounded by stunning scenery—especially from behind the handlebars of a motorcycle. Rev up your touring motorcycles and don’t let summer slip away without exploring our top 3 motorcycle road trip ideas that start and end in beautiful Cochrane, Alberta.
1. Cochrane to Water Valley to Bergen to Lochend Loop
The Cochrane-Water Valley-Bergen-Lochend Loop takes approximately 2 hours to travel without breaks, but you’re going to want to stop and experience rural tranquility and small town charm along the way!
Fuel up with a perfectly brewed coffee and fresh muffin at Cochrane Coffee Traders before you hit the road. You’ll find the Water Valley area low in traffic, giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy the sprawling acreages and farmland on a sunny day. Keep your eyes peeled for the historic Dartique Lodge, built in 1934.
In the Bergen area, you’ll also find plenty of picturesque farms and ranches, but don’t miss out on visiting artist Morton Burke’s Bergen Rocks International Sculpture Park, hosted from his acreage. You’ll be astounded by the outdoor collection of monumental stone sculptures from Vietnam, Germany, Thailand, India, China, Turkey, Korea, Mongolia, Iran, Ireland, Kenya, Cuba, Italy, and Canada.
2. Cochrane to Highwood Pass
Grab your friends and touring motorcycles and take a ride to Highwood Pass. You’ll love the spectacular views on this 114-km ride, showcasing the highest paved pass in Canada. Whether you’re leaving bright and early or heading out for the afternoon, stop by Good Earth Coffeehouse to get your caffeine fix and a filling snack or lunch option.
Take a cruise surrounded by staggering mountain ranges, and remember your park pass so you can take the detour to Upper Kananaskis Road to the Peter Lougheed Park Discovery and Information Centre. There is plenty of wildlife to see, and the centre has restrooms to use before you continue on for a picnic at Boulton Bridge. There are trails that connect to these day use areas, so you can take a break from your bike with a wander to immerse yourself in nature.
Learn more about the many species who call this area home at the Guinn Family Wildlife Museum at Boundary Ranch. Then, explore the many activities the area has to offer by taking a trail ride or dog carting tour through the incredible backcountry.
3. Cochrane to Bragg Creek – Highway 762 – Plummer’s Road – Priddis
Feel the exhilaration! This circuit takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it the perfect non-stop motorcycle road trip to squeeze in around your other summer activities.
If you have more time, take a detour on Route 66 to the Elbow Falls Recreation Area for a snack and a rest. This route has twists and turns all the way until the pavement ends. Watch for the Alberta Wild Horses that roam in the area from Maclean Creek to the start of Powderface Trail.
Cap off a midsummer evening ride at the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory in Priddis. Ponder the wonders of the universe and relax into the secluded quiet of the lush, rolling foothills while gazing up at the expansive night sky.
Don’t miss out on a nightcap before you turn in. Back in Cochrane, The Texas Gate is open late, serving up great good and drinks alongside music and evening entertainment including line dancing on Tuesday night!
Take a ride to remember
Whether you’re driving solo or with a group, there’s plenty of motorcycle road trips in the Cochrane area to add to your must-ride list. Plan a day of motorcycle touring with with us and get on the road!
