Zero Gravity Skate Park
Rest assured; we would have been looking forward to the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games when skateboarding was to makes its debut as an Olympic sport. Sure, some “traditionalists” are skeptical. But, while the old schoolers may not yet feel the vibe, millions of millennial’s are stoked. The sport is alive and well. Especially in Cochrane.
Zero Gravity Skate Park
Cochrane’s claim-to-fame as one of the top skateboarding towns in Western Canada goes back over a decade. Located on the western edge of town at the corner of Highway 22 and Westrock Road, the Zero Gravity Skate Park is one of the best skate parks in the province. The spacious, professionally-designed park (it’s 427 square meters) features concrete bowls, half-pipes, ramps, rockwork, informal seating for hundreds of spectators, lights for evening use (they are on timers), and plenty of awesome features that will ensure all the little grommets can carve and kick-flip until the cows come home.
The Little Skateshop that Could
“When Zero Gravity was built fourteen years ago it was, hands down, the best park in Alberta,” says Sam Stuart, the owner of Shredz! the local skateboarding shop in Cochrane. “A few other larger parks have been built since, but this park is still revered with skaters all over Western Canada. Some of the top skaters and companies in the industry make regular stops here. It’s definitely on their radar. The design is one of the best you’ll find. Its triangular shape is unique. The flow and the features allow for numerous skaters to ride at the same time. Skateboards, scooters, and BMX bikes are all fair game.”
Summer Camps
Not surprisingly, the park is a hub of activity on evenings, weekends, and during the summer months when kids are out of school. “Our summer camps sell out instantly,” says Stuart. “Skating gives kids focus. It keeps them active, off their devices, and engaged in an activity that is challenging and fun. Mastering various skills and tricks is addictive. And you can do it all here. The park has plenty of space and there is something for everyone.”
Beautiful backdrop
Set in a beautiful hillside, overlooking the Bow River and featuring panoramic mountain views, the location of the park couldn’t be better. And, for this reason, it’s a skate park that people come from far and wide to enjoy. And, of course, it’s free to use. “There are limited options and spaces for kids, especially in the 10 to 17 age brackets, to recreate,” says Stuart. “This park fills a void.” And, who knows, maybe future Olympians will groom their skills at Zero Gravity.
Guest Journalist – Andrew Penner
Photographer – Jacquie Matechuk
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