Discover America’s only mountain zoo, where wildlife meets breathtaking Rocky Mountain views in Colorado Springs
Perched high on the slopes of Cheyenne Mountain at 6,714 feet above sea level, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers visitors an unforgettable wildlife experience unlike any other in America. As the nation’s only mountain zoo, this premier Colorado Springs attraction combines stunning Rocky Mountain vistas with close encounters with over 750 animals from around the world, making it one of the top 10 must-visit attractions in Colorado Springs.
Getting Your Tickets and Planning Your Visit
Before heading up the mountain, visitors should plan ahead for their Cheyenne Mountain Zoo experience. The zoo operates year-round with seasonal hours that vary throughout the year. During peak summer months (May through September), the zoo typically opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM, while winter hours are generally 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Admission prices vary by season and age, with discounts available for military families, seniors, and children under 3 who enter free. The zoo offers both general admission and premium experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters. When planning your visit, consider the best time to visit Colorado Springs to ensure optimal weather conditions and save money by purchasing tickets online in advance, which often includes a small discount and guarantees entry during busy periods.
For the best experience, plan to spend 3-4 hours exploring the zoo’s 140 acres of mountainous terrain. The elevation and walking paths can be challenging for some visitors, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.
The Famous Giraffe Herd and Feeding Experience
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is world-renowned for its exceptional giraffe breeding program and houses the largest giraffe herd in North America. The zoo’s African Rift Valley exhibit provides visitors with an up-close view of these magnificent creatures against the backdrop of Colorado’s mountain landscape.
One of the most popular activities is giraffe feeding, where visitors can hand-feed romaine lettuce to these gentle giants from an elevated platform. The feeding experience operates throughout the day (weather permitting) and creates unforgettable photo opportunities. The zoo’s giraffes are accustomed to Colorado’s high altitude and climate, making them some of the most well-adapted giraffes in captivity.
The facility’s success with giraffe breeding has made it a leader in giraffe conservation efforts, with many calves born at the zoo going on to other accredited facilities worldwide.
Navigating the Mountain Terrain and Chairlift
What sets the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo apart from traditional zoos is its unique mountainous layout. The zoo sprawling across Cheyenne Mountain’s slopes, requiring visitors to navigate steep paths and elevation changes throughout their visit. This terrain creates natural habitats for animals while providing visitors with constantly changing scenic views.
The Mountaineer Sky Ride chairlift offers a scenic alternative to hiking up the steepest sections of the zoo. This ski-style chairlift provides panoramic views of downtown Colorado Springs, the Great Plains, and the majestic Pikes Peak while transporting visitors to the upper sections of the zoo. The chairlift operates seasonally and weather permitting, making it both a practical transportation method and an attraction in itself.
Visitors should be prepared for the physical demands of exploring a mountain zoo. The elevation can affect those not accustomed to altitude, and the terrain includes both paved and unpaved pathways with significant inclines.
Seasonal Events and Holiday Celebrations
Throughout the year, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo hosts special events that take advantage of its unique mountain setting. The most famous is Electric Safari, the zoo’s spectacular holiday light display that runs from late November through early January. During Electric Safari, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with over one million LED lights illuminating animal exhibits and mountain pathways.
Spring brings Zoo Babies season, when many of the zoo’s animals welcome new offspring. Summer features extended hours and special educational programs that align perfectly with Colorado Springs summer activities. Fall offers cooler temperatures perfect for hiking the zoo’s mountain trails while enjoying autumn colors across the mountainside.
Each season provides different wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals adapt their behaviors to Colorado’s changing mountain weather patterns. Winter visitors can enjoy the zoo during Colorado Springs winter months, when snow-covered exhibits create a magical alpine atmosphere.
Wildlife Conservation and Education Programs
Beyond entertainment, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo serves as a vital conservation organization supporting wildlife protection efforts worldwide. The zoo participates in numerous Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and has contributed to conservation projects across six continents.
Educational programs serve thousands of school children annually, teaching conservation awareness and wildlife biology. The zoo’s location provides unique opportunities to discuss high-altitude ecosystems and how animals adapt to mountain environments. Families looking for educational experiences will find this perfectly complements other family-friendly activities in Colorado Springs.
Visitors can learn about conservation efforts through interactive exhibits, educational talks by zookeepers, and hands-on learning stations throughout the facility. The zoo’s commitment to conservation education helps inspire the next generation of wildlife protectors.
Dining and Amenities on the Mountain
Exploring a mountain zoo works up an appetite, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers several dining options to refuel during your visit. The Grizzly Grill provides casual dining with both indoor and outdoor seating, featuring stunning views of Colorado Springs below. The menu includes family-friendly options like burgers, salads, and kid’s meals.
For lighter fare, several snack stations throughout the zoo offer beverages, ice cream, and quick bites. The Mountaineer Market near the main entrance stocks picnic supplies for families wanting to enjoy lunch at one of the zoo’s scenic picnic areas.
After your zoo visit, consider exploring the best places to eat in Colorado Springs for dinner. Gift shops located at the entrance and throughout the zoo feature animal-themed merchandise, Colorado souvenirs, and educational materials.
Weather Considerations and What to Bring
Colorado’s mountain weather can change rapidly, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s elevation makes weather preparation crucial for an enjoyable visit. Even during summer, temperatures can be cooler than in downtown Colorado Springs, and afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Visitors should dress in layers and bring rain gear during spring and summer months. Winter visits require warm clothing, as mountain temperatures can be significantly colder than the city below. Sunscreen and hats are essential year-round due to the high altitude and intense Colorado sunshine.
The zoo remains open in most weather conditions, but some exhibits and the chairlift may close during severe weather. Indoor viewing areas and covered spaces provide shelter during unexpected weather changes.
Photography Opportunities and Best Viewing Times
The combination of exotic animals and Rocky Mountain scenery creates exceptional photography opportunities throughout the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for both animal and landscape photography.
The elevated position offers unique perspectives of both wildlife and Colorado Springs cityscape. Popular photo spots include the giraffe feeding platform with Pikes Peak in the background, the chairlift with mountain vistas, and various exhibit viewing areas that frame animals against natural mountain backdrops.
Many animals are most active during cooler parts of the day, making early morning visits ideal for wildlife observation and photography. The zoo’s mountain setting means shadows and lighting change dramatically throughout the day, offering diverse photographic opportunities.
Combining Your Zoo Visit with Other Adventures
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s location makes it perfect for combining with other outdoor activities. Many visitors pair their zoo experience with hiking some of the best hiking trails in Colorado Springs or exploring the nearby Garden of the Gods.
For those traveling with pets, the area offers excellent dog-friendly activities, though pets are not allowed inside the zoo itself. Adventure seekers might enjoy mountain biking trails near Colorado Springs before or after their zoo visit.
Visitors staying longer can explore free things to do in Colorado Springs to round out their itinerary without breaking the budget.
Accessibility and Visitor Services
While the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s mountain terrain presents unique challenges, the facility strives to accommodate visitors with mobility concerns. Wheelchair and stroller rentals are available at the main entrance, though visitors should be aware that some areas have steep grades and rough terrain.
The zoo provides detailed accessibility information on their website and at the entrance, including which exhibits are most accessible and alternative routes for those with mobility limitations. Staff members are trained to assist visitors with special needs and can provide guidance on the most accessible paths through the facility.
Parking is available in terraced lots near the main entrance, though spaces can fill quickly during peak season and special events. The zoo recommends arriving early or purchasing timed-entry tickets during busy periods.
Planning Your Colorado Springs Adventure
A visit to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo contributes to Colorado Springs’ tourism economy while supporting important wildlife conservation efforts. The zoo employs hundreds of local residents and attracts visitors from around the world to the Pikes Peak region.
For those considering an extended stay, explore options for affordable hotels in Colorado Springs or unique cabins in Colorado Springs for a mountain getaway experience. Travelers with RVs might enjoy RV camping at Cheyenne Mountain State Park nearby.
Whether you’re planning things to do in Colorado Springs for a weekend getaway or considering moving to Colorado Springs, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers an unforgettable blend of wildlife education, conservation awareness, and Rocky Mountain natural beauty that exemplifies the best of Colorado Springs attractions.
The zoo serves as a perfect introduction to the region’s commitment to wildlife conservation and outdoor adventure, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring this remarkable corner of Colorado.
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