We arrived at the Bow Rivers Edge RV Resort in Cochrane, Alberta, during a blinding rainstorm. As the downpour lashed against the RV, we managed to settle in for the night. When we woke the next morning, it was as if the storm had never happened. The skies were a vibrant blue, and the crisp morning air filled us with anticipation.
We were especially excited because today, we were meeting up with our new friends, Carey Barrett and Karen Harrison, a couple we had the pleasure of befriending during our Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. It was a joyful reunion, filled with reminiscing about our Camino adventures. The night became even more memorable when we all enjoyed a fantastic meal at a fine Mehtab Indian Restaurant in Cochrane. Delicious food, shared stories, and laughter—it felt like no time had passed since we last saw each other.
The following day, we made our way to Calgary, where we stayed with our dear friends, Pat and Harry Koehler. Their warm hospitality has always made their home a special place for us. That evening, we had the privilege of attending a delightful cookout with the Cu Nim Glider Club in Black Diamond. Surrounded by good company, great food, and the fresh evening air, it was the perfect way to ease into our time in Calgary.
The next day brought more fun, as Joe and Carolyn Harley came over for drinks at Pat and Harry’s. Afterward, we all headed out for yet another Indian dinner—a meal that has quickly become one of our favorites here. The evening was filled with good food and even better conversation.
The following day, Harry took us to the Avro Museum, a place brimming with history and ambition. The Avro Arrow was a Canadian-designed supersonic jet developed in the 1950s. Though the original project was controversially canceled, it remains an iconic symbol of Canadian aviation. At the museum, Harry and his group of aviation enthusiasts are building a 60 percent replica of the Arrow, with plans to fly it once complete. The level of dedication and craftsmanship involved in this project was truly inspiring.
After a fascinating morning at the museum, we had lunch at Angel’s Café, which is perched on the scenic Bow River. With full stomachs and high spirits, we headed into downtown Calgary for a bit of sightseeing.
Our first stop was the Calgary Tower, an iconic structure that offers panoramic views of the city. Standing 190.8 meters tall (626 feet), the tower was completed in 1968 and remains a popular tourist attraction. Its glass-floored observation deck provided breathtaking views of the city skyline, the surrounding prairies, and the distant Rocky Mountains. Seeing Calgary from such a height gave us a new appreciation for its beauty and vibrancy. Click on thumbnail to view image
After descending from the tower, we explored the downtown core on foot, taking in the city’s bustling atmosphere. Our day ended at the James Joyce Irish Pub, where we enjoyed some refreshing libations and toasted to a fantastic visit.
Our time in Calgary was filled with old friends, new memories, and incredible experiences. As we packed up and prepared to continue our journey, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the warmth and hospitality we’d received along the way. Until next time, Calgary!
For our last day in Southern Alberta, we decided to explore the natural beauty of Kananaskis Country by taking a scenic drive along Highway 40 to Canmore. The moment we entered Kananaskis, the landscape unfolded into a breathtaking panorama of mountains, valleys, and forests, all accented by the vibrant fall colors. It was the perfect season to experience this stunning region.
Kananaskis Country, located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, is a vast area of parks and recreational spaces established in 1977. It was named after the Kananaskis River, which, in turn, is believed to be named after a Cree warrior. One of the crown jewels of the area is Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, named after Alberta’s former premier, who played a crucial role in its creation. The park covers over 500 square miles and is known for its pristine wilderness, offering outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing year-round.
Our first stop was Kananaskis Village, a charming little hub surrounded by wilderness. After stretching our legs and taking in the majestic views, we continued on to the mountain town of Canmore. Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Canmore has a fascinating history. Originally a coal mining town, it was transformed after the mines closed in the 1970s. Its real rise to fame came when it hosted the Nordic events for the 1988 Winter Olympics, turning it into a thriving hub for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
We had a delightful lunch at one of Canmore’s cozy cafés, the Rocky Mountain Bagel Company, soaking in the relaxed, mountain-town vibe. Afterward, we strolled through the town, browsing the many local shops filled with handcrafted goods, art, and souvenirs. The crisp mountain air and laid-back atmosphere made it easy to unwind, and it was the perfect way to wrap up our time in Southern Alberta.
Our visit to Kananaskis and Canmore was a fitting end to a beautiful journey, leaving us with memories of spectacular scenery, rich history, and the warmth of Alberta’s mountain towns. We couldn’t have asked for a better final day in this part of the world. Click on thumbnail to view image
