From highlighting hiking trails to exploring the historic downtown treats, entries for the 2025 Explore Cochrane video contest have been nothing short of imaginative. Now that the submission period has closed, residents are being asked to help decide who will be crowned Cochrane’s Ultimate Explorer.
The contest launched June 23 as part of Explore Cochrane’s summer campaign to encourage people to get out, discover local gems, and showcase their favourite places and activities around town.
“It’s been really fun for me,” said Callandra Caufield, executive director of Explore Cochrane. “One of the things that’s been really exciting is talking to people who said, ‘I had no idea there were so many things to do in Cochrane.’ That was absolutely our intention.”
Caufield said while she’s loved watching people discover new experiences, she’s also learned about fresh perspectives and hidden spots from the video submissions.
“It’s so neat to see how Cochranites see their town,” she said. “Often when you travel, the best things to see are the ones locals tell you about.”
With submissions closed as of Aug. 22, the contest now moves into its judging phase. A panel featuring local photographer Tim Hall, Chamber of Commerce executive director Jennifer Wanner, and McKay’s Ice Cream owner Meghan Tayfel will score the entries. Videos will be judged on creativity and storytelling, originality, technical quality, and how well they highlight Cochrane and the surrounding area.
“All of the judges will review each of the videos independently and fill out these criteria,” said Caufield. “We’ll put all of that together to help us see who the top four are.”
Once the finalists are chosen, public voting opens Aug. 26 and will run until Aug. 31. The grand winner will be announced on Sept. 1.
The prize package, valued at $3,500, includes a $1,000 flight credit, private helicopter pickup at Calgary International Airport, a two-night stay at the Canalta Hotel, guided outdoor adventures, a chef’s tasting dinner at The Fence & Post, and VIP access to the Bow Valley Boot Stomp 2026.
Caufield said the contest has already been a success by highlighting the community spirit that makes Cochrane unique.
“The videos are just such a fun reflection of what people love here,” she said. “It’s been inspiring to see.”
People can vote once every day during the voting period. To view entries or to vote, please visit: cochranetourism.ca/explorer-contest.
