Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

On the lower slopes of Cheyenne Mountain, at 6,800 feet above sea level -- making it the nation's highest -- this medium-size zoological park is my top choice for a family outing. The zoo's 700-plus animals, many in “natural” environments, include wolves, lions, leopards, red pandas, elephants, hippos, monkeys, giraffes, snakes, mountain lions, grizzly bears, and moose. Rocky cliffs have been created for the mountain goats; there’s a pebbled beach for penguins and an animal-contact area for children. The zoo is also home to more than 30 endangered species, including the Siberian tiger, Amur leopard, and black-footed ferret. The zoo’s giraffe herd is the largest and most prolific captive herd in the world; there have been about 200 live births since the 1950s. Visitors can actually feed the long-necked beasts ($1 for three crackers).

There’s also a colorful antique carousel, built in 1926, the year the zoo was founded, and a new chairlift dubbed the Mountaineer Sky Ride ($5 adults, $4 kids 3–11). A stroller- and wheelchair-accessible tram makes a full loop of the zoo in about 15 minutes; it operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission to the zoo includes road access to the nearby Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, a granite tower built in 1937, with photos and information on the American humorist. The tower also affords great views of the city and surrounding countryside. Strollers, double strollers, wheelchairs, and wagons are available for rent at Thundergod Gift and Snack Shop. Allow 2 to 4 hours for the zoo and an extra 45 minutes for the shrine.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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