Guide to Colorado’s Best Wolf Sanctuaries (Tour Info, Cost + More!)
Little did we know that our decision to welcome a mid-content wolfdog named Cruze to the family would ignite an insatiable curiosity about the world of wolf dogs and wolves.
However, we quickly learned that wolf dog ownership is a controversial topic, with many people believing that these animals should not be kept as pets.
We also learned that there are many misconceptions surrounding wolf dogs, leading to the heartbreaking reality of these animals being given up due to a lack of education surrounding their care.
But among the challenges, there is hope. Hidden within the landscapes of Colorado, sanctuaries for wolves (and wolf dogs) exist. These wolf sanctuaries provide a haven for these captivating creatures, allowing them to thrive in environments that mirror their natural habitats.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the wolf sanctuaries in Colorado and what they offer the public.
A wolf sanctuary is a place where wolves and wolf-dogs are cared for and protected. Sanctuaries typically have large, natural habitats where the animals can roam freely. They also provide veterinary care, food, and enrichment activities for the animals.
There are many reasons why wolves might end up in a sanctuary. Some are rescued from abusive or neglectful situations. Others are confiscated by law enforcement after being illegally kept as pets. And still, others are released from zoos or research facilities when they are no longer needed.
Whatever the reason, wolves in sanctuaries are given a second chance at a happy and healthy life. They are able to live in a safe and natural environment, and they receive the care and attention they need.
In addition to providing a safe home for wolves, sanctuaries also play an important role in education. They offer tours and educational programs that teach the public about wolves and their importance to the environment. Sanctuaries also work to dispel myths and stereotypes about wolves, and they advocate for their conservation.
Wolf Sanctuaries in Colorado
Mission: Wolf
13388 Co Rd 634 | Westcliffe, CO | 81252
Phone: (719) 859-2157
Wolf Sanctuary Information:
- Cost of admission: There’s no cost to visit
- Hours: Open Saturdays and Tuesdays 9 am to 12 pm, closed all other days
- Tours: Available daily and last for one hour
Mission: Wolf is a wolf sanctuary nestled in the picturesque mountains of Colorado, specifically in the remote area near Westcliffe, amidst the breathtaking Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
It serves as a sanctuary for unwanted captive-born wolves and wolf dogs and focuses on providing lifelong care for these animals.
Founded in 1988 by Kent Weber and Tracy Ane Brooks, Mission: Wolf started as a shelter for a dozen purebred timber wolves and wolfdogs.
Over time, the sanctuary grew with the help of visitors and volunteers, allowing for the adoption of more wolves. Currently, Mission: Wolf houses up to 40 wolves and wolfdog crosses.
The sanctuary also emphasizes sustainability and respect for the environment. Mission: Wolf operates on solar power and uses recycled building materials, aligning its practices with its mission to promote stewardship of the earth.
Mission: Wolf welcomes day visitors, short-term volunteers, and groups to visit their nature sanctuary. Visitors have the opportunity to observe the wolves, and there are options for extended stays through camping. They also accept contributions of money, meat, supplies, and items on their wish list
So far, Mission: Wolf’s Ambassador Wolf Program has facilitated wolf greetings with over a million people across 30 states over the course of 35 years. The sanctuary has provided lifelong care for over 125 wolves, with 24 unwanted wolves and wolf-dogs currently under their care. Additionally, Mission: Wolf has preserved over 350 acres of pristine subalpine habitat as part of their land conservation project.
Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center
4729 Twin Rocks Rd | Divide, CO | 80814
Phone: (719) 687-9742
Wolf Sanctuary Information:
- Cost of admission: Check Website
- Hours: Open year-round, from 10am to 4pm daily
- Tours: available daily and last for one hour
The Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center is a refuge located in Divide, Colorado, less than an hour from Colorado Springs. It is dedicated to protecting, preserving, and educating people about wolves and other misunderstood wild canids, as well as highlighting their importance in ecosystems.
The center provides a unique and educational wildlife experience, allowing visitors to observe wolves, coyotes, and foxes in large wooded enclosures that offer privacy, sanctuary, and stimulation for the animals.
At the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center, visitors can take hour-long tours to meet the resident animals, learn their histories, and gain a better understanding of the threats faced by these creatures and their habitats.
The center offers guided tours where visitors can admire the poise, grace, and playful antics of the wolves, as well as hear heartwarming stories of individual animals.
Each tour culminates with a group “wolf howl,” where visitors can join in and experience the magical and serene atmosphere created when the wolves start howling.
It is highly recommended to make reservations for all tours at the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center. The center also offers full-moon tours, special events, and volunteer opportunities.
For an additional fee, visitors can have an “up-close and personal” interactional wolf experience, including having their photo taken with several of the animals. Slurpy wolf kisses are an added bonus for those who choose this experience.
W.O.L.F. Sanctuary
Bellvue, CO | 80512
Phone: (970) 416-9531
Wolf Sanctuary Information:
- W.O.L.F. is currently not open to the public for tours but is open to volunteers.
The W.O.L.F. Sanctuary, which stands for Wolves Offered Life and Friendship, is a non-profit organization located in the foothills of Northern Colorado, just northwest of Fort Collins.
Founded in 1995, the sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing captive-born wolves and wolf dogs that are unable to be cared for by their original owners and providing them with a permanent, life-long sanctuary in a natural habitat that considers their physical, medical, and emotional needs.
Currently, they can hold up to 30 wolves at a time.
The W.O.L.F. Sanctuary is currently in the process of developing a new site to maximize its efforts.
The new 160-acre plot will be situated off Larimer County Road 74E between the Red Feather Highlands and Glacier View Meadows neighborhoods.
The move will allow them to have a location that can eventually be open to the public, offering opportunities for visitors to learn about the sanctuary’s mission and interact with the animals.
W.O.L.F. Sanctuary does not offer tours to the public. However, they are always looking for volunteers to help with a variety of tasks, from administrative work to caring for the animals.
Volunteers have the opportunity to interact with the wolves and learn about their care and rehabilitation.
To find out more about volunteering, visit the W.O.L.F. Sanctuary volunteer portal.
Best Practices for Visiting Wolf Sanctuaries
Be respectful: Remember that wolves are wild animals and should be treated with respect. Do not approach the wolves, make loud noises, or throw food at them.
Follow the rules: Each sanctuary will have its own set of rules and regulations. It is important to read and follow these rules to ensure the safety of both visitors and wolves.
Do not bring food or drinks: Food and drinks can attract unwanted animals and can also be harmful to the wolves. It is important to leave all food and drinks outside of the sanctuary.
Dress appropriately: Avoid wearing clothing that is loose or that can easily be caught on something.
Can you see wolves in Colorado?
Yes, it is possible to see wild wolves in Colorado, although the chances are relatively low.
Wolves were historically present in Colorado, but they were eradicated from the state by the early 20th century due to hunting and habitat loss.
However, in recent years, there have been occasional reports of wolf sightings in Colorado as dispersing individuals from neighboring states, such as Wyoming and Montana, explore new territories.
In 2020, a pack of gray wolves was confirmed in northwestern Colorado, marking the first known wolf pack in the state since the 1940s.
Does Colorado have a wolf sanctuary?
Yes, Colorado is home to several wolf sanctuaries, including the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, Mission: Wolf, and W.O.L.F. Sanctuary. These sanctuaries serve as dedicated facilities where rescued or captive-born wolves are cared for, allowing them to live in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats.
How much does it cost to go to a Wolf Sanctuary in Colorado?
The cost of visiting a wolf sanctuary in Colorado varies depending on the sanctuary and the type of tour you choose. Standard tours typically cost between $20 and $25 for adults and $15 and $20 for children. More specialized tours, such as feeding tours or overnight experiences, can be more expensive.
What do you feed the wolves?
Wolf sanctuaries feed their wolves a diet that is similar to what they would eat in the wild. This includes a variety of meats, such as beef, chicken, and lamb, as well as bones, organs, and vegetables. Some sanctuaries may also supplement their wolves’ diets with vitamins and minerals.
Love Wolves? Us too. Here’s How You Can Help
One of the challenges facing wolf sanctuaries is the high cost of care. Wolves are big, and so are their needs. From specialized veterinary care to providing enriching environments, it all adds up.
And let’s not forget about the cost of food! Wolves have a hefty appetite and a taste for high-quality cuisine. Forget kibble, we’re talking about the real deal here—mouthwatering, raw meat galore.
Another challenge is the public’s misconceptions about wolves. Many people believe that wolves are dangerous and should be feared. Wolf Sancutaries work to dispel these myths and stereotypes through their educational programs.
By supporting wolf sanctuaries and their educational programs, we can help shatter stereotypes and ensure these incredible beings receive the love, respect, and belly rubs they deserve.
Here are some of the ways you can help a Wolf Sanctuary:
- Donate to a wolf conservation organization: Support wolf conservation efforts by making a contribution.
- Volunteer your time: From assisting with daily care and feeding to habitat maintenance and educational programs, there’s a wide range of tasks where you can lend a helping hand.
- Spread the word: Talk to your friends and family about wolves and the threats they face.
- Adopt a wolf: Okay, not a real one, but symbolically. Many sanctuaries offer adoption programs where you can “adopt” a wolf and receive updates on their well-being. Best part? No late-night walks required.
Best Wolf Sanctuaries in Colorado Final Thoughts
We are committed to educating others about wolf dogs and the challenges of owning them. We believe that these animals can make wonderful companions, but only if they are properly cared for and understood.
We hope that by sharing our experiences with others, we can help to break down the misconceptions about wolf dogs and prevent them from being placed in unsuitable homes.
Whether you’re a wolf enthusiast, an animal lover, or simply seeking a unique experience, consider adding a visit to a wolf sanctuary to your Colorado itinerary. Take the time to learn, to observe, and to support the important work being done to protect and preserve these incredible beings.
