As summer heats up in July, it's the perfect time to take advantage of the great weather. And what better way to do that than by joining a local walking group that combines fitness with community?
The Cochrane Walking Club, established in April 2024, offers walks year-round in and around town. For many, it’s become more than just a fitness group-- it’s a growing network of friends.
“It’s accessible to most people,” said organizing member Liz Stableford. “When we post on Facebook, we include the walk location, elevation gain and distance so people can decide whether it's something they’re comfortable doing.”
Stableford joined shortly after the club's launch, drawn by the opportunity to explore the outdoors with fellow walking enthusiasts.
“I’ve always enjoyed walking. I have a dog; so I walk twice a day anyway. But it’s nice to have others to go a bit further with.”
Since joining, she’s walked various local trails, including RancheHouse, Mitford Pond, and Glenbow Ranch.
“We usually plan two shorter walks a month, about four kilometres, and two longer ones-- no more than seven to seven-and-a-half kilometres so it stays accessible for most people.”
The group is also highly responsive to member input, regularly adapting routes and even introducing hikes based on interest.
“One of our first hikes was to Canmore-- not too far and not too difficult. As we got to know each other, we were able to plan more hikes that suited everyone’s interests.”
From a modest beginning of just seven walkers, the group has grown to attract up to 20 participants, including a six-year-old and an 80-year-old member. Dogs are also regular companions.
“It’s a wide range of people, and we often hang out after our walks. We'll grab coffee, or lunch, depending on the time and place.”
That social element has helped turn the group into something more than just a club. It has become a supportive, tight-knit community.
“We’ve had potlucks and other social events already,” said Stableford. “We even went to a memorial service for one of our members. That’s how close we’ve become. It feels like a family.”
Inclusivity and support are at the core of the club’s values.
“On one walk, we hit a steep section and I felt like turning back. But others immediately said, ‘We’ll come with you, you’re not going alone.’ In the end, I finished the whole route, but they weren’t going to leave me behind. Everyone looks out for each other.”
The group has stayed consistent, only cancelling a couple of walks due to extreme weather. Regular Sunday outings continue, and this summer, they’re planning exciting new hikes, including Barrier Lake, Rawson Lake and the Black Prince Suspension Bridge.
“Give it a try and see how it fits,” said Stableford. “You won’t lose anything, and you might gain new friends.”
Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather. For hikes, the club shares guidelines on equipment and gear.
“We have a few members with search and rescue experience,” said Stableford. “They’re a great resource when planning what to bring.”
The club operates under a few basic principles:
- Respect everyone’s physical capabilities
- Keep pets leashed and under control
- Know your limits before joining a walk
Cochrane Walking Club is free to join and shares weekly walk details-- typically on Wednesdays-- through their Facebook page: Cochrane Walking Club on Facebook.
