Cochrane is the perfect home-based location for a Canadian Rockies adventure. There is so much to see and do around that you won’t be bored. Here is a list of our favorite things to do in Cochrane, Alberta for when you’re not exploring the mountains.
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A Few Things to Know Before Visiting Cochrane, Alberta
Cochrane sits at an elevation of 1,159 m (3802 ft), which is more than 1,000 meters higher in elevation than most cities in Canada (such as Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver). Consequently, you may feel some effects of the high elevation during your stay in Cochrane, Alberta, such as dehydration, headache or fatigue. Make sure to drink lots of water and pace yourself when hiking or doing physical activity around the town.
In addition, Cochrane is super dry (compared to eastern cities of Canada). You’ll probably have drier skin and lips than what you’re used to. Make sure to bring lip balm, moisturizer and sunscreen. Furthermore, the Town of Cochrane is really windy – it is actually rare that we get to have a day with no wind! You can also get to experience the Chinook winds, which can raise the temperature by a lot within minutes/hours. During winter, the Chinooks bring some warmth to the cold winter days, and we all get to enjoy this so much!
This beautiful town is popular for its western heritage. You can walk around Main Street and enjoy the original and unique buildings.
Where is Cochrane, Alberta?
Cochrane, Alberta (because there is also a Cochrane, Ontario) is located at the foothills of the Canadian Rockies and it’s:
- 40 kilometers away from downtown Calgary,
- 45 kilometers away from Calgary Airport (YYC),
- 75 kilometers away from Canmore and,
- 100 kilometers away from Banff National Park.
Undoubtedly, its location makes it the perfect home base for visiting Alberta and the Canadian Rockies.
What to do when visiting Cochrane, Alberta
There are many things to do in town, from shopping in the historic downtown to hiking or mountain biking. In addition, Cochrane is one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada and is popular amongst families. A lot of people move from cities such as Calgary or from provinces such as Ontario and Quebec searching for a small-town vibe and closeness to the mountains.
Furthermore, the old town with its historic buildings will bring you back in time to how people used to live in the West – you’ll get a Cowboy vibe alright! The Town of Cochrane is filled with biking and hiking trails as well as walking paths. Additionally, from almost anywhere in town, you’ll have amazing views over the Rocky Mountains.
You can certainly not miss visiting (and perhaps moving to) this town!
Continue reading to know our top picks for things to do in Cochrane, Alberta.
Best Hikes Near Cochrane
The Town of Cochrane offers a few hiking and walking trails. In addition, the famous Bow River passes through the town making it a nice place to walk and enjoy a picnic.
Furthermore, the Cochrane Ranche and the Glenbow Ranch offer the best views over the Canadian Rockies. From those two places, you’ll have the perfect mix between the grasslands of the Prairies and the mountain peaks of the Rockies. There is even a section of the Great Trail (Trans-Canada trail) that passes through the town of Cochrane.
Some of our favorite hiking/walking trails are:
1. Cochrane Ranche
From here, you can do a short hike to the famous Grandfather Tree. This spruce tree is over 300 years old! This trail is surrounded by trees, flowers and creeks. If you do a loop, you can also go up close to the “Man of Vision” statue. From this location, you can admire the Rocky Mountains. Can you recognize a few of them from the distance?
2. Riverfront Park Trail
This 4.7 km trail will allow you to walk by the Bow River. Along the way, you will be able to get closer to the river to throw rocks, dip your toes or enjoy the sound of the running water. In addition, there is a wooden playground that your kids will surely enjoy as well as a disc gold course!
3. Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park
This park offers several easy-to-moderate hiking/walking and biking trails. There is over 28 km of pathways you can choose from. You can easily enjoy a picnic and take in the amazing views of the mountains and the Bow River!
4. Big Hill Springs Provincial Park
Located just 10 km north of Cochrane on Hwy. 22 and 7 km east on Hwy. 567, Big Hill Springs Provincial Park is the perfect place to enjoy a short walk in nature far from civilization (not too far though!). In addition, there are some shallow creeks where, during the summer months, kids will enjoy splashing water and playing around. Make sure to visit early in the morning during hot days to avoid the crowds. Similarly, there is so much wildlife to observe while visiting this park.
Best Cochrane Parks and Playgrounds
The Town of Cochrane would not be popular to families if playgrounds were not available at every corner. Therefore, almost every neighborhood has 2 to 3 playgrounds or green areas for kids to play. Moreover, most parks around town have picnic tables and BBQ pits so you can enjoy a fun picnic while the kids play. Some parks have restrooms or portable toilets, while some others do not. Our kids have enjoyed playing in the following playgrounds:
5. Centennial Park
This playground has a portable toilet which is great when young kids need to go to the bathroom. It is conveniently located next to the Tim Bannister Memorial Rink, in the same area as the playground.
6. Riverfront Park
Mentioned above, this wooden playground offers a unique and natural experience for young explorers!
7. William Camden Park Playground
Nested in a little forested area, this playground offers a giant spider web for kids to climb and a bridge to cross! Plus, it is also close to a creek.
8. Fireside Playgrounds
First, you can choose from three options: the “red park” which is close to the roundabout by the entrance of Fireside. Second, you can go to the “blue park” which is part of the Fireside School. And, last but not least, you can enjoy the newer built playground that is part of the Holy Spirit School. No matter which one you choose to go to, your kids will surely enjoy them!
Other fun attractions to Visit in Cochrane
Some other attractions to visit when in Cochrane, Alberta are:
9. Spray Lake Centre
The Town of Cochrane is home to this great leisure centre that offers not only the possibility to enjoy some swimming in their aquatic centre, but also some climbing or ice skating. The Spray Lake Sawmills Sports Centre also has an outdoor spray park which is open only during the summer months, a fitness center, bouncers and so much more.
10. Walk around the Historic Downtown
There is so many unique and historic buildings on Main Street. From ice cream shops to hotels and pet supplies shops, you will be able to admire the beautiful architecture!
11. Visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary
This sanctuary is home to several wolfdogs and was created in 2011 to bring awareness and educate people about these beautiful creatures. You can choose to take a self-guided walk or an interactive tour to be up-close with the wolfdogs. You should note that this activity is only for kids older than 6 years old.
12. Relax at the Cochrane Public Library and Archives
There is plenty of books to choose from. If you visit during the summer, you can sit in the front garden and enjoy a good book! They also offer drop-in activities for toddlers and older children. You can look at their activity’s schedule here.
13. Learn about the region at the Cochrane Historical Museum
This museum is located in the Cochrane Ranche. The admission is free, but they gladly take donations. Here, you will dive to the past and learn so much history about the town!
Best Restaurants in Cochrane
The Town of Cochrane offers several options to eat in (or out). There is something for every taste! You can find the complete list of restaurants in the Cochrane Tourism website, but our favorites are:
14. Super Casual
If you feel for something casual, you can try a food truck. El Nopal Tacos and More offers authentic and delicious Mexican food. Miss Poutine Food Truck offers authentic and mouthwatering poutines and steamed hot dogs. You should note that these food trucks normally operate during the summer months and are closed during winter.
15. Fancy
16. Great Atmosphere
The Boot. If you want to try authentic Italian food, The Boot is the place to go. Their Tagliatelle Bolognese, their Spaghetti Polpettine and their Tiramisu are to die for.
17. Perfect Afternoon Snack
MacKay’s Ice Cream. They have over 20 flavors to choose from! Haskap Berry and Bubblegum are some of our favorites!
Exploring the Rockies from Cochrane, Alberta
Cochrane is the perfect home base for exploring the Canadian Rockies. Within 45 minutes, you’ll be in Kananaskis Country. And in just above one hour, you’ll be in downtown Banff. You can drive a little longer and visit Lake Louise too.
Please remember to be bear aware in bear country. Make sure to bring bear spray and keep your kids close to you at all moments to prevent a dangerous encounter.
Here are our favorite places to go for day trips:
Things to Do in Kananaskis Country:
18. Troll Falls
This is an easy to moderate trail. It is about 4.7 km out-and-back; although you can make this a loop and go nearby the Kananaskis River. If it’s hot, you and your kids can enjoy playing in the river. First, you will walk in a forested area that will bring you to the beautiful Troll Falls. If you visit during the winter, make sure to wear base layers and spikes or campons to avoid slipping down on ice. It is a superb experience to admire a frozen waterfall.
Contrary to what you or your kids may think, there are no Trolls in this trail (or at least there shouldn’t be!). In fact, Alberta Parks has asked visitors to not leave any troll dolls hidden in the forest as this is considered litter and can harm animals and their ecosystem.
19. Blackshale Suspension Bridge
This easy to moderate 1 km loop will bring you to an amazing suspension bridge. Kids will love to walk back and forth on the bridge. The views are beautiful all around. If you decide to visit this trail in winter, you should visit the Alberta Parks website to make sure that the bridge is open. When there is a lot of snow, the bridge is closed down by the Park for safety reasons.
If you feel like walking more than 1km, you can do a longer trail (6.1 km out-and-back) called Blackshale Suspension Bridge via Black Prince. You can either begin the hike by parking on the road and walking to the bridge first or, alternatively, drive a little further to the Black Prince Day Use Area parking lot and walk in the forest before reaching the Suspension Bridge to then walk back to your car.
20. Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk
This easy 4.2 km out-and-back trail is the perfect trail to have amazing views of the Town of Canmore. You will walk alongside the creek where kids can play and cool down on a warm day. You can choose to do this trail only; however, you can also do a loop and visit the Canmore Engine Bridge.
A lot of people stop by to look at this beautiful bridge and have amazing views of the mountains. On one side, you can see the Three Sisters, Ha Ling and Miner’s Peak and on the other side you can see EEEOR. You can then walk back to your start point following the Bow River where there are several spots where you can stop to rest, play in the water, dip your toes or throw rocks.
21. Bragg Creek
Bragg Creek is a nice little town 20 minutes away from Cochrane on the Cowboy Trail (route 22). This town is popular for having several trails for hiking and mountain biking. There are a few stores and a nice playground.
You can visit the Bragg Creek Provincial Park and enjoy walking alongside the Elbow River. In the Day Use area there are firepits, tables and toilets available for families to use. There is plenty of space for kids to run around, play ball or enjoy the nature and wildlife.
22. Elbow Falls
This is an easy 0.8 km loop trail located near Bragg Creek. This is a short trail where you and your kids can walk alongside the Elbow River. There are a few spots where you can get closer to the water to admire the beautiful turquoise color!
Things to Do In Banff:
22. Johnson Lake
This is a short 2.9 km loop that is great for families. It is a popular spot to admire the lake, swim, do kayak or paddleboard. What we love most about this lake is that there is actual sand, so make sure to bring toys for the kids to play! You really get that beach feeling but with a mountain vibe.
Perhaps one of the most interesting facts about Johnson Lake, though, is that in this trail, you will find a cabin. The man that used to live there, Billy Carver, is now known as the hermit of Inglismaldie. Could you believe that Billy Carver spent almost 27 years living in this cabin without anyone noticing? Kids will love checking this cabin out!
23. Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls
This is a very popular trail that’s around 5.3 km out-and-back. If you want to avoid the crowds, you should try to visit it the earliest in the morning or later in the afternoon, if possible. The first part of this trail will bring you to the Lower Falls, while the second part will allow you to discover the Upper Falls. It is a beautiful trail that kids will love because they get to see the beautiful colors of the falls while being surrounded by nature.
For an even more magical experience, you can walk this trail in winter to see the frozen waterfalls!
Finally, if you and your kids have enough stamina, you can continue to the Ink Pots which are a set of 5 pools that have different shades of green, blue and turquoise tones. If you get to this point, it is usually less crowded and you can enjoy a snack admiring the pools and mountains by the Johnston Creek. This trail is 11.3 km out and back.
24. Cave & Basin National Historic Site
This place is considered the birthplace of the National Park system of Canada. There are several trails you can hike as well as picnic tables you can eat on with your family – hint, there is also a hot spring! In addition to your Parks Canada Discovery pass, you will have to pay a small fee to access this site.
25. Bow Falls Viewpoint
This is a 2.7 km out-and-back easy trail. This trail is open year-round and it’s perfect for spotting wildlife. The kids will have a lot of fun going up the stairs to get to the viewpoint and appreciate the turquoise waters surrounded by trees and mountains.
26. Vermilion Lakes
This is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset with the family, do kayak or paddleboard. There are several docks where you can sit and admire the views of the iconic Mount Rundle. You can spot birds, ducks and even beavers in the water!
Things to Do in Calgary:
The best about the Town of Cochrane is that you can go West and get to the mountains in less than an hour, and drive East and be in the city in less than an hour. This is like THE BEST of both worlds. We enjoy visiting places in the city as well as being immersed in nature. You can visit the following places in the city:
27. Bowness Park
This may be one of the most popular and known parks in the City of Calgary. This park is located along the Bow River and has a lagoon where you can do kayak or paddleboard with the family. During winter time, the lagoon become an ice-skating rink. Therefore, it will not matter if you visit during the summer or in winter, fun is sure to be had!
Of course, this park would not be complete without picnic tables and firepits! Make sure to visit this park with your kids!
28. Heritage Park
This is a historical park built in 127 acres near the Glenmore Reservoir. Furthermore, Heritage Park exhibits western Canadian history; more precisely, between the years of the 1860s to 1950s.
There is a passenger steam train that will take you around the park. Honestly, my kids loved this A LOT! Also, there is a boat, S.S. Moyie, that brings you out to the Glenmore Reservoir. I think it is hard to know which one of these kids will like most because they are both super fun (for kids and adults alike!).
Likewise, Heritage Park hosts several events during the year. It is extremely likely that your kids will enjoy attending the Ghouls’ Night Out which is a Halloween themed event that is run at the end of October. The possibilities are endless here: there are magic shows, haunted houses, candy tables for Trick or Treating, crafts and carnival games.
29. Stephen Avenue
Stephen Avenue is a popular and crowded pedestrian zone strategically found near restaurants, bars & pubs and other commerces. You can find a parking spot far enough for you to be able to take the CTrain in the TD Free Fare Zone for a few minutes. The closest station to Stephen Avenue is Wb 4 Street SW Station. Kids will have a lot of fun riding the CTrain.
30. +15 Skywalk
+15 Skywalk, also known as Plus 15 Network, is a combination of 86 bridges and over 16 km of walkways for people to move around in Downtown Calgary. These walkways are usually open during the hours of 6:00 am and 9:00 pm.
You can go anywhere from the Calgary Tower to the Glenbow Museum walking through the bridges. In some areas, there is background music and art displays so your walk will be anything but boring.
31. The Calgary Zoo
The Calgary Zoo may not be the biggest one in Canada, but it sure is a beautiful one that is worth visiting.
The have several habitats such as the Canadian Wilds where you can spot Black and Grizzly bears; Destination Affrica where of course you will see lions, giraffes, gorillas and hippos; and Penguin Plunge where you will discover the chilly home of these funny and beautiful creatures.
Furthermore, there is a Prehistoric Park for all dinosaur lovers! These real-life sized models will leave you in awe as you walk back in time. Make sure not to be eaten by the T-rex!
Other Places to Visit:
32. Drumheller
There is lots of fun activities to do in Drumheller. I have a complete blog post dedicated to this stunning town. You can read all about it here.
33. Bar U Ranch National Historic Site
This National Historic Site is located in Longview, Alberta about an hour and a half from Cochrane. You can easily go back in time and discover how people lived back in the 1800s.
Moreover, when families visit Bar U Ranch National Historic Site, kids (and adults alike) can learn to rope which is one of the most important skills of a cowboy. There is also wagon rides with Percheron draft horses as well as a cookhouse and bunkhouse that everyone will love.
Finally, there are some walking trails you can choose to do with your kids to complete your experience.
34. Ghost Lake
Don’t worry, there are no ghosts! This reservoir is located about 20 minutes west of Cochrane. This place is popular during the summer months for kayaking, paddleboarding or driving boats. You should note though that this place is prone to sudden weather changes and the wind can pick up really quickly, so make sure to be safe!
During winter, there is an ice track where people drive and drift on the lake. There are no authorities on site to monitor participants, so everyone must assume the risks involved in such activity.
Nonetheless, you do not need to participate, you can still enjoy and have fun just watching the cars race through the ice.
F.A.Q Things to Do in Cochrane, Alberta
Can I see the mountains from Cochrane, Alberta?
The mountains are fairly visible from the Town of Cochrane. Some communities such as Sunset Ridge, Gleneagles and Fireside have some of the best views as they are higher up compared to communities like Glenbow or Downtown.
Can I see wildlife in Cochrane, Alberta?
Wildlife can be found anywhere. Of course, the chances of seeing an elk in the City of Calgary are slim, but still possible. Therefore, you can be lucky enough to spot several deer families all around Cochrane. When visiting, make sure to respect the speed limits and watch out for them trying to cross from one side to another. Also, in Cochrane Ranche, some people have seen moose.
If you come across any type of wildlife, do not approach them and DO NOT feed them. Respect their space as they can easily feel threaten and react aggressively. Be safe, and keep them safe!
Should I carry bear spray when visiting Cochrane, Alberta?
The Town of Cochrane has over 34 000 residents. This is quite a large town and you may think that wild animals do not roam here. Nonetheless, animals can be anywhere anytime. As mentioned above, moose and deer are easily seen around town. I have even heard of a few times a couple of bears have been spotted in certain neighborhoods. While you may not need to carry bear spray to go to the grocery store or the coffee shop during your visit, you may consider bringing it with you if you decide to venture to forested or more secluded areas of the Town.
What is the most popular place in Cochrane, Alberta?
During the summer months, one of the busiest places in the Town is MacKay’s Ice Cream on Main Street. People will line up in order to savor their delicious, authentic and unique ice creams. If you are patient enough, make sure to stop by and enjoy a treat!
Are all services available in Cochrane, Alberta?
Yes! You have everything you’ll need for your visit. If you’re staying in town, there are several grocery shops; drugstores and coffee shops. If an emergency arises, we have a Community Health Centre. Their hours of operation are from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm. If you need to see a doctor outside of these hours, you can choose to drive to Canmore, Airdrie or Calgary as their ER’s are open 24 hours.
What’s the best activity to do in Cochrane, Alberta?
Honestly, there are so many to choose from it would be hard to name just one. Do you feel like swimming? Walking near the river? Eating out? The absolute best part of visiting or (if you’re lucky enough) living in Cochrane is that you can be anywhere in less than an hour. You can visit Kananaskis Country, Canmore or Banff for a spectacular mountain adventure. Or, alternatively, head to the city for an urban experience.
I fell in love with Cochrane, Alberta and I want to move in with my family. What is the best neighborhood to buy or rent a house?
I know that feeling! We fell in love with this Town – it was love at first sight! We were not planning on moving here but fast forward 4 years, and here we are. All communities in town have their own charm and are beautiful. You may want to consider whether you need to have a school in the same zone; whether you prefer to live downtown so you do not have to drive everywhere, or whether you want to be close to the water.
There is something for everyone and you cannot go wrong. If you choose to live here, you will not regret it!
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Cochrane, Alberta
There are many things to do in Cochrane, Alberta. It’s not just a home base to explore the Canadian Rockies but also a beautiful, family-friendly town to be enjoyed.
Make sure to check the following resources listed below to better plan your trips in the Canadian Rockies:
- 16+ Family Adventures in the Canadian Rockies
- Fun Things to Do in Banff With Kids
- Family Getaways in Alberta
- The Ultimate Calgary-Banff-Jasper Itinerary
