Departing Calgary, we head for Alberta's ranch country and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Nestled along the banks of the Bow River, Cochrane is the gateway to the "natural west", with western architecture throughout the town. We'll visit Cochrane Ranche, where cattle ranching began in Alberta, and review history at the Western Heritage Centre. In downtown Cochrane we can enjoy ice cream, shop for western gear and visit local establishments.