Colorado offers a plethora of entertainment to enjoy, but if you’re looking for a new activity to shake up your routine, consider taking a mini road trip to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg. This local sanctuary does important work, and venturing out to explore the gorgeous grounds will add excitement to your summer plans. If you’d like to stop by for a fun and educational day, take a look at the details we share here.
About the Wild Animal Sanctuary
The Wild Animal Sanctuary opened its doors in 1980 just outside of Boulder. Its program has experienced tremendous growth over the course of 30 years, and has been relocated to Keenesburg, Colorado. The sanctuary organizers hope to address and mitigate the captive wildlife crisis and provide a natural habitat for its 460+ residents. Located just 50 miles east of Boulder, Keenesburg offers a picturesque setting for the animals and visitors. This safe haven is located on 789 acres, so there’s plenty of room for the animals to roam. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is committed to combating illegal wildlife trade, and places a high priority on rescuing large carnivores in need. This organization’s mission is made possible by donations from the public, so be sure to stop by or donate if you feel compelled to help the cause.
What You’ll Find at the Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is open year round, excluding holidays and during inclement weather. The summer season is an especially pleasant time of year to visit, and if you’re not a fan of the heat, you’ll enjoy the Wild Nights program. Many of the animals prefer to doze through the hottest temperatures of the day and awaken as the sun sets and the cool breeze arrives. Regardless of when you visit, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. You’ll begin your exploration with a trip to the expansive Welcome Center before proceeding to the main attraction: the Mile Into the Wild Walkway. The walkway connects to observation decks where you can view a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, wolves, leopards, horses, and more. For an optimal view, pack a pair of binoculars or pick some up at the Welcome Center. Food and beverages are permitted on the premises, but if you’d rather pack light, there’s a cafe available onsite. From start to finish, you can expect to spend three to four hours exploring the facilities and taking in the breathtaking natural beauty.
If you have a passion for helping animals, visiting the Keenesburg Wild Animal Sanctuary is a must. Summertime is the perfect opportunity to take a break from the ordinary routine, so grab your sunglasses and hit the road for an exceptional day trip.