The weather may have taken a turn for the worse today, but Explore Cochrane is a go this weekend.

Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9 are packed with opportunities for Cochranites to enjoy leisurely activities in their own backyard.

"I think people will be surprised by the amount of activity here and it will open their eyes as to what is available in their own backyard," says Kelly Sinclair, who is helping promote the event. "It's great for them to know what they can do here on weekends in town instead of having to go elsewhere looking for fun. It's also valuable to have this in your back pocket should you be hosting family or friends from elsewhere."

Bookings are being accepted for rafting, biking, fly fishing, two different bus tours and disc golfing. There is also the opportunity to utilize the resources of the Makerspace of the Cochrane Public Library, which has a green screen, 3D printer, circuit cutter, a button maker and other STEAM gear for hands-on activities.

There is a $5 fee for taking part in either of the interactive bus tours but participants will receive $5 Cochrane dollars, which are redeemable at face value at numerous Cochrane businesses. The rafting and bike excursions both cost $15

Free activities include fly fishing at Mitford Pond, disc golf at the Riverfront Park and use of the Makerspace in the library.

Sinclair says the idea originated when the Cochrane Tourism branding committee participated in two evenings of familiarization tours

"These people are really engaged Cochranites but they were still very surprised by the things that they learned and saw that they hadn't already experienced after multiple years of living here, including me."

It's also a valuable way for people to spread the word about what Cochrane has to offer through their own social media and word of mouth.

"We know that the people who live here love it the most and with their enthusiasm and excitement they can share information on our community and what we have to offer, which will bring more people here to explore and some may even want to move here in the future."

Space is limited for each event and bookings should be made in advance. You can find more details on each and complete bookings at http://www.cochrane-tourism.ca/explore/. 

Environment Canada is forecasting highs in the 12-13 degree Celsius range over the weekend with a 60 per cent chance of showers Saturday and 30 per cent chance on Sunday.