The town of Cochrane, where Western Heritage meets New Age, is one of Central Alberta's recreational playgrounds. Cochrane sits at the base of Big Hill near the Bow River Valley, a mere 18 kilometres west of Calgary along Highway 1A. Cochrane's idyllic location where the rolling Alberta foothills meet a spectacular mountain view is one of its major draws: in addition to picturesque views, the town provides immediate access to all types of outdoor recreation and fast access to the Rockies. Over 25,500 people live in Cochrane's estimated 10,000 homes, and the Cochrane real estate market continues to grow. The market includes a mixture of mature and new construction, as well as a large selection of acreage and ranch homes near the town.

Cochrane is best known as the town that wears its western-Albertan pride on its streets. Located in the heart of cattle-country along the Cowboy Trail, Cochrane residents offer a warm, western welcome to visitors and newcomers, and nowhere is the spirit of the town more evident than on its Main Street. Here you can peruse the many western-style stores and shops, have a meal at a local restaurant, or grab a coffee. And if you're in need of more robust shopping facilities, Calgary and its big-city big-box stores are a mere 20 minutes drive away.

Out here your days are only limited by your imagination! Opportunities to explore the great outdoors can be found around every corner. Hiking, cycling, horseback riding, golfing, fishing, and other watersports are just a few of the popular warm-weather activities, while cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and skating are popular in the winter. Avid downhill skiers love living in Cochrane for its fast and easy access to the Rocky Mountains and the ski resorts in Banff and Lake Louise. And for those who prefer indoor activity, make sure you check out the Sawmills Family Sports Centre with the new Jayman swimming pool, rinks, curling, gymnastics, soccer, fitness and a variety of programs and activities.

Popular yearly events in Cochrane include the Great Cochrane Outhouse Races, Lions Labour Day Rodeo, Ranche Days, Canada Day, and the Christmas Lightup.

I moved to rural Cochrane in 1989 and spent all my formative years here. There has been a lot of change over the years and many homes added however Cochrane still has managed to keep the small town feel to it. They are in the process of adding a ring road around Cochrane to alleviate some of its traffic woes - growing at the pace that it has I'd say you can't come here in a hurry to get around. The river pathways are one of my favorite amenities in Cochrane, that and the fantastic Cochrane Movie House. We have a few big box stores moving in which means we don't have to run to Calgary every time we need something, the staff at Staples, Canadian Tire and Sport Check are some of my favorite in town. Fast food I love Freshie, the addition of Wendy's keeps my husband and kids happy. The proximity to the mountains is also something I love about Cochrane, they are a fabulous back drop to our community and a short drive away to go and enjoy all the activities. I love heading to Banff for a night with friends to blow off steam and visit all the great stores. My family and I love skiing so we really appreciate being close to so many fantastic ski hills! I could go on and on - want to move to a great town close to it all but just a little bit removed?? I love Cochrane and I'd love to show it to you!