Taking a scenic drive about 35 minutes southwest of Calgary will bring you to the sister towns of Turner Valley and Black Diamond, with populations of 2,500 and 2,700, respectively. Another 10 minutes south is the village of Longview and its 300 residents.

All three have a lot in common, including a friendly, small-town feel and a variety of housing options to meet many buyers' needs and budgets.

From north to south

The Cowboy Trail winds through the Alberta foothills, showcasing some of the most beautiful scenery our province has to offer. Along the way are many unique communities and attractions that road trippers won't want to miss.

With plenty to see and do, the Municipal District of Foothills may be your next day-trip destination

South of Calgary lies the Municipal District of Foothills. Okotoks, High River, Black Diamond, Turner Valley and Longview are all within the district's boundaries, an area that encompasses some 3,600 square kilometres of ranchlands and rolling foothills.

According to 2011 census figures, not only is the district home to 21,258 people, it also
offers Calgarians and area residents a variety of interesting attractions. The website www.coollittletowns.com – an initiative of several southern Alberta communities – provides information on district attractions, from hundreds of unique shops, restaurants, galleries, activities and experiences.

Coming home to Mother Nature's playground

With its close proximity to Calgary and stunning Rocky Mountain vistas, Redwood Meadows encompasses mountain living.

The area earned its name after a 1940 brush fire that destroyed most of the area. Elders of the T'suu Tina Nation noticed regrowth of trees in that area had a reddish colour to them and dubbed the area "Redwood Yard."

Discover hidden gems a stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of Calgary

For those who call the area home, the MD of Foothills is a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Comprised of rolling hills, golden wheat fields, leafy woodlands and mountain vistas, the 3,600-square-kilometre area south of the Calgary city limits surrounds the towns of Okotoks, High River, Turner Valley and Black Diamond as well as the village of Longview and Eden Valley Indian Reserve.