After 10 years, the Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park is no longer a hidden gem. Its popularity continues to grow with every given month.

Yet to reach this point, it had to overcome many obstacles. 

Andy Crooks, past chair of the Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation, was involved with the early visioning of the park with the Harvie family and led the foundation during the critical build-out phase.

He remembers the challenges well and glows when speaking about what has been created for all Albertans to enjoy.

"This is just a terrific opportunity to look back over the history and my history in the park, which started with Neil Harvie. Thirty-five years ago, he came up with this vision, and now we're seeing the fulfillment of it."

He says whether the park would go ahead was a close call. In the end, Crooks says they owe a debt of thanks to many for making it possible.

"One of the big highlights was when Ralph Klein and Gary Mar put their shoulder to the wheel and said this is going to happen. 

"Another big turning moment was when caucus of the Alberta government of the day said we're ready to close, and that was important."

Over the years, Crooks says they have been fortunate to have capable management and leadership within the park's foundation.

"Sarah Parker, our new CEO, is really taking it to a whole new level. Kids programs, adults programs, and tours for adults and children alike, it has really opened up the park to people, and it's been a terrific program environment."

He says the big hope has always been to complete the connection with the Cochrane and Calgary trail systems. 

"That was a long way in the future, but it's getting closer all the time. We can see it over the horizon."

Deborah Apps is the former president and CEO of the Trans Canada Trail and visited the park during the anniversary celebration. She worked closely with Crooks to ensure the Harvie family's vision for the park to become part of the Trans Canada Trail network came to fruition.

"Glenbow is one of the gems on the trail because you come out here and you see the beauty of Alberta and the foothills, and it's right here in our backyard."

Tim Harvie says the park is exactly what his family envisioned when pursuing its creation.

"It's a provincial park that Albertans can enjoy, and that's been going on for 10 years, so it all turned out just how we hoped."

Over two days the park showcased its many programs, including free guided walking and golf cart tours as well as interactive displays. 

Related Stories