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    Where the Pavement Ends: 319 Acres of Freedom Near Water Valley - Water Valley, AB

    Alberta Listing No. 25285

    Two full quarter sections NW of Water Valley. 319 acres of private foothills wilderness, available as a turnkey package or individually. Mature spruce & poplar, a meandering creek, established trails, & an insulated cabin create an ideal setting for recreation, hunting, or a future homesite.


    Price
    $2,450,000

    Size
    319 acres ~ 2 titles

    +46 photos

    Description

    Two full quarter sections on the northwest edge of Water Valley offer a rare opportunity to own 319 acres of secluded foothill wilderness—available together as a package or individually. Situated at the end of a quiet, no-through road and bordering the Municipal District of Bighorn, this property delivers the perfect blend of privacy, recreation, and long-term potential for a private residence, retreat, or outdoor basecamp.

    Located just 15 minutes from Water Valley, 25 minutes to Sundre, 40 minutes to Cochrane, and just over an hour to downtown Calgary, the land feels remote and peaceful while remaining easily accessible. Only a few minutes of travel is on well-maintained gravel; the balance of the drive is high-quality paved road.

    Both quarters showcase a beautiful mixture of mature spruce and poplar, rolling timbered hillsides, open meadows, established cutlines, and a meandering creek—prime country for hunting, hiking, ATV use, horseback riding, or simply enjoying nature. White-tail hunting in particular is exceptional. Crown land is nearby, and the Burnt Timber Recreation Area is only minutes away. Fallen Timber Meadery is also close at hand.

    Improvements include a well-built access road, gated entry, power, natural gas, and an artesian well, along with an insulated cabin heated by a gas stove. The cabin sits on the south quarter overlooking a dramatic ravine with a creek running through—a private, sheltered vantage point ideal for weekend retreats.

    The south quarter, accessed either through the north parcel or from the southeast corner off Township Road 303 offers exceptional seclusion and natural beauty. Trails wind through mature timber, and the varied topography creates endless opportunities for recreation and exploration.

    The north quarter provides private gated access, a professionally constructed road running north–south to the cabin, a dugout, roughly six acres of hay, and an east–west cutline that enhances access and visibility across the property.

    Together, these two quarters create an unmatched, end-of-the-road foothills sanctuary with excellent access, abundant wildlife, and significant long-term potential—an outstanding opportunity on the doorstep of the Municipal District of Bighorn.

    Location

    West of RR 55 on Township 303, Rural Bighorn No. 8, M.D. of Alberta T0M 0R0

    Access

    North of Cremona on Highway 22 to Township 304 (Burnt Timber). West to RR 55, South to Township 303. West to end of road, driveway is on south side.

    Area Data

    Water Valley and the country northwest of Cochrane form one of Alberta’s most distinctive foothills regions—an area defined by rolling timber, clear-running creek, and a strong rural community spirit. Water Valley itself is a small but vibrant hamlet known for its relaxed western atmosphere, local saloon, weekend markets, and easy access to the Eastern Slopes. The landscape surrounding it transitions quickly from open ranchland into mature spruce and poplar forest, offering endless opportunities for recreation, wildlife viewing, and quiet retreat.

    North of Cochrane, the drive toward Water Valley moves from the bustling Bow Valley corridor into peaceful, lightly populated countryside where paved secondary highways weave through ranches, acreages, and large tracts of timberland. Residents and visitors value the area for its proximity to Calgary combined with its sense of true seclusion—making it a favourite for those seeking a weekend escape, a private homesite, or access to backcountry adventure. The region is also well known for exceptional white-tail hunting, fly fishing along the nearby creek and rivers, and year-round access to recreation areas such as Burnt Timber and Fallen Timber. This part of the foothills continues to be one of Alberta’s most desirable rural destinations, offering a rare balance of privacy, natural beauty, and convenience.

    Vegetation

    Spruce, aspen, and wild grasses dominate the property. Fields are sewn in alfalfa.

    Recreation

    The Water Valley and northwest Cochrane region is a true playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of year-round recreation set against the backdrop of Alberta’s eastern slopes. The surrounding foothills are laced with trails for ATV riding, horseback excursions, hiking, and snowmobiling, with direct access to vast stretches of Crown land just minutes away. The Burnt Timber and Fallen Timber recreation areas are renowned for their rugged terrain, scenic vistas, and extensive networks of backcountry routes that appeal to both casual explorers and seasoned adventurers.

    Hunting is a major draw in this part of the province, with strong populations of white-tail deer, mule deer, moose, and black bear frequenting the mixed forest and creek bottoms. Anglers enjoy nearby streams and rivers known for trout fishing, while campers and families take advantage of the many informal campsites and quiet wilderness pockets scattered throughout the area. In winter, the region transforms into a hub for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling, with groomed and ungroomed areas available within a short drive. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-filled adventure or peaceful solitude, the Water Valley foothills offer an unmatched combination of access, scenery, and outdoor opportunity.

    History

    The Water Valley and northwest Cochrane region has a long, recognizable history tied to Alberta’s early ranching, logging, and rural settlement eras. European homesteaders began moving into the area in the late 1800s and early 1900s, drawn by the fertile valleys, abundant timber, and reliable water sources that made the foothills suitable for both ranching and small-scale agriculture. Early families established mixed farms, grazing operations, and sawmills, using the surrounding forests and creek systems to support their livelihoods.

    As transportation routes improved, the area gradually developed into a small but tight-knit rural community, with Water Valley serving as a hub for supplies, mail, gatherings, and local commerce. Throughout the 20th century, the region retained its character as a quiet, self-reliant foothills district where ranching, logging, and recreation were central to daily life. Today, it is known for its strong rural heritage, scenic wooded landscapes, and a culture rooted in land stewardship, outdoor living, and the independence that has always defined Alberta’s mountain-fringe communities.

    Map Reference

    51°34'12.42"N and 114°42'45.13"W

    Investment Features

    Mature spruce and aspen providing business materials and some timber value.

    Services

    • Power
    • Natural gas
    • Artesian well (water supply)
    • Insulated cabin with gas stove for heat
    • Private gated access
    • Professionally constructed all-weather road

    Improvements

    • Insulated cabin located on the south quarter
    • Gas stove for heat inside the cabin
    • Cabin positioned overlooking a ravine with a creek
    • Gated entrance on the north quarter
    • Professionally built all-weather access road running north–south to the cabin
    • Dugout on the north quarter

    Tax Details

    $660 (2025)

    Zoning

    Agriculture

    Legal

    MERIDIAN 5 RANGE 6 TOWNSHIP 30 SECTION 13 QUARTER NORTH EAST
    LINC 0021-448-105

    MERIDIAN 5 RANGE 6 TOWNSHIP 30 SECTION 13 QUARTER SOUTH EAST
    LINC 0021-448-113

    Maps & Plans

    +8 maps

    Maps & Plans

    Our property descriptions and geographical information are taken from the BC Assessment Authority, Land Titles Office, government maps and other sources. While LandQuest® does not guarantee the information, we believe it to be accurate, but should not be relied upon without verification. This communication is not intended to cause or induce breach of an existing agency agreement.

    Location

    Location