I’ve lived in Cochrane, Alberta for about five years now and it wasn’t until very recently that I learned of The Crossing at Ghost River. Set amid 145 acres of wilderness, the cozy property is the perfect Alberta retreat. Despite being only a 20 minute drive from Cochrane and a 45 minute drive from Calgary, I felt completely disconnected from city life, in the best possible way. The remote location in combination with the optimal service and comfortable accommodations truly make this property one of Alberta’s best hidden gems. I had the opportunity to experience The Crossing at Ghost River earlier this summer as part of a small media trip, and from the moment I arrived, I understood why so many people return year after year. With quiet mornings on the balcony reading, invigorating river dunks, and home cooked meals in the dining room, it was an experience that felt both grounding and indulgent. The experience made me realize that The Crossing is more than just a place to stay, it’s a place to reconnect, with nature, loved ones, and yourself.
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Where is The Crossing at Ghost River?
The Crossing at Ghost River is just a short drive past Cochrane to the west. From Cochrane you will take highway 1A for around 20 km. You will then turn onto Highway 40 which you will follow for another 10 km, keep your eye out for signage as there is a large sign directing you to The Crossing. When you see the sign turn into the driveway and follow the road til you get to the gravel parking lot. We had no issues getting to The Crossing just by putting the address into our Google Maps.
What Makes The Crossing at Ghost River Unique?
There are so many things that make The Crossing stand out. We only stayed for one night, but honestly, we could have stayed much longer. There was so much to do, and the setting was absolutely beautiful.
First of all, the location is ideal. Tucked into the foothills, it feels remote and peaceful, but it’s still just a short drive from both Cochrane and the mountains. It strikes the perfect balance between convenience and escape.
What surprised me most was the variety of activities available. I had planned to spend the evening curled up with a book and relaxing in nature, but I didn’t even end up opening it. We arrived just in time for a sunset hike to the property’s brand-new lean-to, and it was the perfect way to end the day.
Throughout our stay, we also noticed several fire pits, a wood-fired sauna next to the river, board games in the common areas, and side-by-side rides to explore more of the property. There’s a surprising amount to do here, whether you’re in the mood to be active or just want to take things slow.
What to Expect During your Stay
A stay at the Crossing is whatever you need it to be. The staff here are absolutely lovely and accommodating so whether you’re looking for quiet time to yourself, meaningful conversations with others, or a bit of both, you’ll feel totally supported.
Accommodations are cozy and thoughtfully designed to encourage relaxation. I noticed that there are no televisions in the rooms and I liked this touch. It really encouraged us to unplug and enjoy our time away from technology. Meals were served in the dining room and the food was absolutely amazing. Just home-cooked meals that felt comforting and nourishing.
I loved just hanging out in the common spaces, Garett and I enjoyed playing cribbage with a cup of tea and just slowing down for a while. There’s no pressure to do anything while you’re here and that’s part of the appeal.
Who its Perfect for
The Crossing at Ghost River used to only be open for group bookings, but recently they’ve opened their doors to everyone. Meaning individual bookings are now accepted so you can book a stay by yourself or with a friend or partner!
It’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to slow down and enjoy nature. Maybe life has been busy and stressful lately, or you’ve been craving some quiet time to reflect, rest, or simply breathe a little deeper. Whether it’s a solo retreat, a romantic getaway, a trip with a friend, or even a group getaway, The Crossing is a great option.
Tips for Planning your Visit
To plan your stay, head to The Crossing at Ghost River website where you can browse available dates and book directly through their online tool. If you prefer a more personal touch, you can also call the property at (403) 932-3392 to speak with someone and arrange your visit.
The Crossing is open year-round and each season provides something different. Make sure to check their website or social media to find out about events or workshops coming up. There’s no cell service on the property, which is a part of the charm, but there is wifi so you can still stay somewhat connected during your visit.
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