Suggested Items To Bring
When you visit The Wild Animal Sanctuary, you’ll be outdoors during most of your visit, walking on ramps, observation decks, and our 1.5 mile-long "Mile Into The Wild" walkway to view the animals. So the weather should always be kept in mind when you prepare to visit the animals.
In General...
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket. The wind is always a little stronger on the walkway than it is on the ground. Bring hats, sunscreen and sunglasses. You can bring water, or we sell it in the Gift Shop (as well as at our Snack Bar).
You are welcome to bring binoculars, cameras and video cameras if you are photographing the animals for your own enjoyment. You are also welcome to bring your own picnic lunch and there is a fully operational Café and snack bar that offers a wide variety of nutritious food, snacks and beverages. From pizza, hamburgers, shrimp and sandwiches to fresh salads, there is something for everyone! During our winter hours, the Sanctuary may close during severe storms.
If you are a professional photographer, videographer, writer or artist, please contact the office, 303-536-0118, for guidelines. If you are going to use your talents to create income, we feel that the animals deserve consideration for assisting playing their part in your creative efforts, especially since they are the subjects that make that possible. We are glad to work with you for the benefit of both yourself and the animals.
In General...
It can get over 100 degrees in mid-to-late summer, so always bring water, hats, sunscreen and sunglasses. The Welcome Center and the Education Center are enclosed and do provide shade, as does the Lion House and Bear Deck, but they are spread apart along our 1.5 mile walkway. During the hottest months (July and August) the animals are better viewed first thing in the morning - or late afternoon or evening (during Wild Nights) - when they are more visible.
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Since the animals can see in the dark, many tend to sleep in the shade during the hottest part of the day, and then get up when clouds appear, or later in the day before sunset.
During Summer...
Colorado winter days can be warm and dry or snowing and blowing…and anything in between. The Sanctuary closes during extreme weather (deep/blowing snow, impassable roads, or extreme cold when the ice on the ramps and decks doesn’t melt).
That being said, most winter days are sunny and in the high 30's or low 40's. For those used to Colorado winters, this is a very comfortable day as long as the sun is out and there is no wind.
To be ready for colder weather, wear coats that protect against cold and wind, hats, gloves and scarves. If the weather is bad, or forecast to be bad, always call before coming out.
See current conditions here...
