Did you know, while humans have about five million scent cells, wolves have 200 million? Or how about this? While humans can hear sounds up to 25 thousand hertz, wolves can hear up to 80 thousand! That means they can hear sounds as far away as six miles in the forest, and almost 10 miles in the open. There’s so much to learn about these incredible Colorado residents, and The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center has made it their mission to educate us. The sanctuary is one of very few in the US to be certified by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and that means, you’ll have privileged access to the experts who work there, when you drive just an hour from Cheyenne Mountain Resort.
In addition to their Species Survival Program that provides a home to Mexican Grey Wolves and Swift Foxes, the sanctuary hosts interactive tours and programs about the importance of Wolves, Coyotes, and Foxes to Colorado’s eco-system. Staff experts believe it’s critical to educate the public about the importance of preservation and conservation of the forests, land, and water that supports wildlife, flora, and fauna for future generations. If the animals they receive can’t live in the wild, they provide them with natural habitats and exceptional living conditions that you can tour during your visit. Schedule a visit to walk with one of the sanctuary’s experienced and knowledgeable guides, and learn why it’s important to preserve our diminishing wildlife-- not only for their existence but ours as well. The hour is guaranteed fun with close-up views of the beautiful, majestic and elusive wolf. The interactive component was integrated so that those who are able can safely touch a wolf. Staff members insist that to run your fingers through a wolf’s fur and maybe even making eye contact can deliver a feeling of deep spiritual connection that would be impossible to achieve any other time. Here are the tour options:
STANDARD TOUR
The Standard Tour is a 1 HOUR guided educational tour. You will see wolves, coyotes, fox and learn about the history, biology, current issues they face today and so much more. Every tour ends with a signature group howl. Please arrive 15 minutes early!
FEEDING TOUR
The Feeding Tour is a 60-75 minute guided educational tour open to everyone. You will see wolves, coyote, and fox and learn about the history, biology, and current issues each face today. Watch your guide feed our hungry animals and end the tour with a signature group howl!
FULL MOON TOUR
Our Full Moon Tours are always once a month on a Saturday night. These fill up quickly, so make your reservations early! You’ll start with complimentary seasonal beverages and sweets and then begin the tour. At the end of the tour it’s dusk and you’ll hike up to Chinook's Nature Trail where you’ll hear Darlene, our found and owner tell the story of how the sanctuary was born. As the moon rises, join in a group "Howl at the Moon" and listen to the wolves howl back. The tour is approximately two hours. The gift shop will be open after the tour.
FULL MOON FEEDING TOURS
Our Full Moon Feeding Tours are always the Friday before and Sunday after our regular Full Moon Tours. However, check our event calendar, as the FMFT may not be held due to weather events. During this tour you will meet our resident animals and observe them when they are most active during feeding time! Learn about hunting, howling, and hierarchy from your dedicated tour guides. Free snacks and beverages plus a traditional group wolf howl will be performed at the end of the tour. The tour is approximately 1.5 hours, and the gift shop will be open afterwards.
Requirements for Full Moon Tours: We are in the Pikes Peak mountain range of 9,165’ so wear proper shoes/hiking boots and always dress for any type of weather. And bring a flashlight as it will be dark by the time we end the tour.
VIP ENCOUNTER
On the VIP interactive encounter, you and your guests will get an exclusive, private, up-close and personal interaction with the resident wolves. A staff photographer and wolf handler will help you to experience and capture this once in a lifetime experience. You will receive up to 20 photos via Dropbox. Your time in with the wolves depends on how interactive they are. Approx. 20-25 minutes.
ULTIMATE ALPHA
The Ultimate Alpha is truly the ultimate experience. You will have one full hour of experiencing 2 wolf enclosures and 1 fox enclosure. You will also receive up to 50 photos via Dropbox. This tour is exclusive and very limited. The Standard Tour is highly encouraged due to its educational value. These tours are conducted at 8AM only.
MEET & GREET ENCOUNTER
A small group will enter the enclosure of resident wolves, Keyni & Makuee, where they’ll have an opportunity to experience the two beauties up close and personal. Photos will be taken while you are in the enclosure, and there will be a link available where you can purchase prints, digital copies, or customized photo options of your choosing. Ask your tour guide for details.
COYOTE/DOG ENCOUNTER
Are you ready for a high-energy, fun time with our coyote-dog? Come meet Ringo! Not many people get such an amazing encounter with a coyote. Ringo is smart, loves attention, high-energy and just plain fun. You will receive up to 15 photos via Dropbox.
FOX/SINGING DOG ENCOUNTER
On the Fox and/or Singing Dog encounter, you and your guest can have your photo(s) taken with our red fox or singing dog couple. Tour guides will decide at the time of event which animals you and your guest will be meeting. Decisions are based upon the animal behavior and providing the best possible experience. You will receive up to 15 photos via Dropbox.
For all tours, it’s important to observe the check-in time, age requirement, and dress code. Advance reservations are required.
If you time your visit right, why not check out one the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center’s special events? There’s Meet a Wolf Day on Sunday March 19th from 4 to 6 pm and an Earth Day celebration on April 16th from 9 to 11 am. Admission includes a wolf tour, raffle entry, and a wildflower seeds giveaway.
It’s all there and it’s all for you to explore. Visit the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center website for details on all tours, rules for participation, fun facts, conservation information, and more. Plan your visit, book your tour, and come back to stay the night with us at Cheyenne Mountain Resort. We can’t wait to hear all about your adventure!
