Brooklyn, which lies 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) to the north-east of Cowan, is considered the northernmost suburb of the Greater Sydney Metropolitan Area.

[6] The railway stop at Cowan was originally a crossing loop to allow trains on the single-line north track to pass each other, and it was also the point at which auxiliary steam engines, connected to the trains at Hawkesbury River station (Brooklyn), were disconnected after the steep haul to the top of the plateau.

With the coming of the railway, Cowan become a popular holiday spot and a regular starting point for bushwalkers.

In 1958, the rail line was electrified, and this also increased the number of people visiting the area, with families moving into the suburb, particularly those wanting to raise children in a bushland setting but near the city.

[6] The predominance of freestanding three-bedroom houses set in gardens provides a sense of openness, and creates a pleasant transition to the bushland which surrounds the town.

[8] Pie in the Sky was featured in the Australian film Lantana, and is a frequent stop for day-trippers, bicycle riders and motor-scooter enthusiasts on weekends.

Cowan Park and a small picnic area are adjacent to the Fire Station on View Street.

Cowan Post Office opened on 14 December 1936 and closed in 1993, however, postal services are still available in the local General Store.