Cochrane has an enviable home 18 kilometres northwest of Calgary on the banks of the Bow River, with a magnificent backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. 

Cochrane’s population of about 14,500 includes artists, musicians, writers and ranchers, and there are many arts, family and western heritage events scheduled throughout the year. 

Calgary can be reached pretty quickly from here, and many Cochrane residents drive in to the city’s northwest CTrain stations to make the commute each working day. 

History

Cochrane Ranche was established in 1881 by Senator Matthew Henry Cochrane, and was the first major cattle ranching operation in western Canada. Today, the Cochrane Ranche Historic site offers guided tours during the summer.

Cochrane became a village in 1903 and a town in 1971. 

Shopping and Restaurants

The town’s ranching and western heritage is evident in Cochrane’s downtown district and with the many cowboys and cowgirls who live and work in the area.

Main Street was built for strolling, thanks to Cochrane’s blend of quaint local shops, boutiques, cafés and hopping ice cream parlour (which has reached legendary status in the province).

Recreation

Cochrane is the perfect playground for families, adventure enthusiasts and those just looking for a little R&R in a beautiful natural setting. 

Tee off at any number of golf courses, hang-glide with the local eagles, float down the Bow River, or cast a fly into that same river (watch out for rafters).

This is also a good spot for skiers and snowboarders: you’re way ahead of Saturday morning traffic from Calgary to the hills. 

Schools

Cochrane has eight public and separate schools operating within the town boundaries. The public schools are under the jurisdiction of the Rocky View School District.

Transportation

Cochrane is easily accessed via the Trans-Canada Highway or Highway 1A out of Calgary.

Southland Transportation operates a regular commuter bus to and from Calgary on weekdays.