Starting at the parking lot in Cochrane Ranche, this trail, a mix of pavement and gravel, runs through the centre of the Ranche. Along the first section of the trail, you will find the a cairn with the ranch history over the years and a replica of the corrals. The wooden bridge crosses Big Hill Creek.
Tip: Just before the bridge, you can head west into the trees where you will find picnic tables for a place to eat.
The trail meanders through mixed grassland with forested areas to the east and rolling hills to the west.
The trail passes the Cochrane RancheHouse, home of the Town of Cochrane administration offices and Stockmen's, the museum/library that trail is named after.
Tip: Watch for wildlife and birds in the meadow, especially moose in the fall.
The trail continues up the hill north of the RancheHouse, with paved switchbacks ended at a gravel road with great views of your travels. The trail is out and back, but there are options on both sides of the to take a different route home.
photo credits: Jacquie Matechuk