Trails & pathways

Cochrane has over 80 kilometers of pathways, trails and public sidewalks. This pathway system helps connect our community. 

Use the Pathway map to find your new favorite trail or plan your next walk. The interactive map has information on current and future paths and the pathway surface (asphalt, gravel, etc.).

Pathways

Pathway and Trail Etiquette

Our trails are enjoyed for a variety of activities, so it's crucial to share them responsibly. Please follow these guidelines to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment.

• Physical distancing on trails: Whether you're running, walking, or biking, be mindful of others. Maintain at least two meters of physical distance from other users. Share the space responsibly and alert others to your presence with your voice, bell, or horn as appropriate.
• Right of way and yield: Keep to the right side of the pathway except when passing or turning left. Move off the trail to the right when stopping. Yield to slower-moving traffic: cyclists should yield to pedestrians, and joggers to walkers. Move to the right side of the trail for less mobile users.
• Ring your bell: Using your bike’s bell is a courteous way to notify others on the trail that you’re approaching.
• Wear the proper equipment: Follow Alberta guidelines for safety equipment while riding your bicycle Cycling safety equipment | Alberta.ca.
• Exercise caution: Ensure you are familiar with proper skating and braking techniques before hitting the trails. Maintain a safe speed so you can quickly brake or stop if needed.
• Always shoulder check: Look behind you before turning or passing, and use hand signals to communicate your intentions.
• Share responsibility: Trails are for everyone. Lead by example and help teach others proper trail etiquette.
  
  By following these simple rules, we can keep our trails safe and enjoyable for all.

Sidewalk/Pathway snow & ice clearing

Pathway snow routes map

Within 48 hours after a snowfall, Cochrane clears snow from sidewalks and pathways including:

• sidewalks adjacent to Cochrane owned buildings, properties and Cochrane maintained parks.
• sidewalks adjacent to public schools
• municipally maintained stairway links within communities
• bridge walkways across the Bow River and Jumping Pound Creek.
• asphalt pathways and sidewalks adjacent to roadways, allowing pedestrian access to the downtown core
• asphalt pathways within parks and environmental reserves
• asphalt pathway links

Areas not designated to be cleared of snow:

• residential sidewalks
• unpaved pathways within parks and environmental reserves

Sanding & salting

Sanding and salting of streets, lanes and sidewalks is done to ensure a reasonable level of safety for motorists and pedestrians.