Those in the market for a new home will be thrilled to know that a one-of-a kind, very special option is now on the market. Bordering the iconic Big Rock Site is a custom timber frame home locally and expertly built by Rod and Marla Brown of Crazy Creek Timber Frames. Many in the area are familiar with this home. Built as a Showhome for Crazy Creek in 2001, the home and Big Rock site has been a popular location for countless photo shoots, celebrations and First Nations ceremonies. The home was even featured in episodes of the popular CBC Series, Heartland.
This is a true timber frame home inside and out – not a home where timbers are on the interior with traditional siding on the exterior. This home follows the time-honoured art of crafting the frame, posts, beams, cabinetry, countertops, and flooring all from timber.
Built to showcase unobstructed views of the Rocky Mountains and Big Rock Site, the property itself features manicured grounds, a quaint garden cottage, and a pergola. Annuals, perennials, and a water feature ensure the grounds are vibrant and inviting all year long.
Inside the home are six bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms; plenty of room for a family plus guests. The home chef will love the spacious country kitchen with its custom cabinets and stainless steel appliances. As the delicious smells of home cooking waft from the kitchen, those in the great room can relax by the woodburning fireplace with its impressive custom mantle. The views from the 20 foot west facing windows are one of the biggest draws, and never fail to impress.
The main floor master suite has private access to the back deck. The suite’s bathroom includes a soaker tub and in-floor heating – perfect for those chilly winter nights. A standout feature of the home is the wrought irons spindles on the open staircase. Admire the artistry all the way up to the second story loft and upstairs second master suite where another private balcony provides yet another unobstructed view of Big Rock and the mountains.
More than a home, this property also has income potential. A private downstairs entrance and suite could be used for an AirBNB or to host guests as a Bed and Breakfast. Thanks to on-site provisions for horses (shelter and water facilities), this home is perfect for horse owners or those looking to set up a trail ride business.
Marla points out the allure and significance of living near one of the world’s largest glacial erratics, let alone living with a full, stunning view of the mountains.
“It just cannot be understated,” she smiles, then adds a short history lesson. “Weighing in at 16,500 tonnes and dropped of by the receding glacier about 30,000 years ago, the Big Rock is thought to have originated near Mount Edith Clavel near Jasper. The rock is quartzite, a mineral not found naturally in this area. The site is a Provincial Heritage Site, overseen, protected and maintained by the Government of Alberta.”
It is an important Indigenous site as well.
“The rock is home to native petroglyphic evidence, including Indigenous drawings and handprints in ochre. When the sun is at the right angle, a mysterious ‘guardian’ image appears at the base of the westerly portion of the rock. At over 10 feet in height, standing upright and clothed in buckskin tunic, dark leggings, the image evokes a sense of a majestic Indigenous protector of the sacred status magical place.”
She adds, “From the home, a short stroll takes you to this iconic landmark. There's always something interesting going on over there!”
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All this and more is located just a short five minutes from the town of Okotoks. Live in the country but be next to town. Enjoy nature but also enjoy lower maintenance thanks to expertly tailored grounds and stunning natural views. From large families to those that love to entertain, from quiet living to a thriving business, the potential is limitless.
Don’t miss your chance to be own part of the iconic history of the area. A true custom timber frame home of this nature is a rarity. To own your piece of paradise, contact Jim Henheffer today.
