April 24, 2014 | CREBNow

A little bit country

Communities of Bearspaw and Springbank perfect for country living

Nestled on the outskirts of Calgary's city limits in Rocky View County are the communities of Springbank and Bearspaw.

These two communities offer a quiet setting with the big city nearby. The name for Springbank originated from a creek that runs through the community, known as Springbank Creek. The community started off as agricultural based and in the
1950s started to attract rural residential living. "The reason we moved to Springbank in the first place was for the larger lots and the quiet surroundings," said Springbank resident Susan Cutt. "We also liked the fact that we still had neighbours, but we still had a bigger view, and the mountain views
are spectacular.

"My favourite thing about Springbank is that it's so quiet out here. I love the peacefulness. I love that animals of all kinds wander through my yard at any given time of day and I love that I don't hear busses and sirens."



While living the country life, the city is a quick drive away, offering Springbank and Bearspaw residents the best of both worlds.

"I like that I can shop in Cochrane, Westhills or Crowfoot. They are all the same distance away for me to drive," said Cutt. "I think living out here has taught me to slow down, I'm never in a hurry to go anywhere."

The Bearspaw name originates from Chief Bearspaw, head of the Stoney Nations. He was an influential negotiator and signatory for the 1877 Treaty Seven. In 1909 the community was home to a Canadian Pacific Railway station. Dairy farmers originally
settled in the Bearspaw area, until it grew to include a mixture of farms, ranches, acreages and planned subdivisions.

A new shopping amenity in planning stages for the community is the Tanger Outlets at Calaway Park development. Tanger Outlets and RioCan have teamed up to build the new outlet mall beside the popular theme park with construction expected to
start in 2014 and a projected grand opening in 2015.

Another project, Bingham Crossing, is in the works to be a unique shopping destination and lifestyle centre for communities in Rocky View County. It will be located just west of Calgary in Springbank, offering office, retail and commercial services to residents in the area.

12 Mile Coulee Natural Environment Park

Close to both Bearspaw and Springbank, the 12 Mile Coulee Natural Environment Park provides a unique natural area in Calgary's northwest with hiking, cycling, walking and running opportunities. There is a creek that runs along the base of the coulee and the park's knoll formations and depressions.

The park is known for its wildlife and vegetation. When visiting the park you can see a classic prairie coulee, which is a small valley or gully, mixed with grassland, shrubs and trees the seasonal water flows from snow melt or heavy rains.

Peter the Plantman

Located about one kilometre off the Trans Canada Highway in Springbank, Peter The Plantman has all gardening and plant needs covered. Peter Hughes has built a reputable business offering interior and exterior landscaping for corporate offices and special events, tropical plants, flowers and silk plants for purchase or rental and a greenhouse for all your plant needs.

The greenhouse is focused on creating a stress free and relaxing process by offering clients a tailor-made plan to suit their needs.

Bears Den

A place to check out for a fine dining experience is Bears Den on Bearspaw Road. The menu features the best of Alberta beef, fresh fish, chicken and a changing selection of elk, venison and bison from local ranches.

The wine list has been awarded with the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for the last eight years and features a wide selection of wines. Along with their dinner hours, the Bears Den offers a Sunday brunch buffet and private dining room for special occasions or meetings.

Springbank Park for all Seasons

The Springbank Park For All Seasons is the perfect facility for fitness needs all year round. Along with a playground and green space, the park features indoor and outdoor skating rinks, curling centre, weight room, dry land training area, indoor ball facility, soccer park, football field and ball diamonds. The park also organizes various events for individuals and families.

Tagged: Bearspaw | Community | country | Feature | Springbank