Information
Landmark: Cheyenne Mountain ZooCity: Colorado Springs
Country: USA Colorado
Continent: North America
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, USA Colorado, North America
Overview
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, located on the scenic slopes of Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is the only mountain zoo in the United States and one of the most unique zoological parks in the country. Established in 1926 by Spencer Penrose, a wealthy philanthropist and businessman, the zoo occupies roughly 140 acres at an elevation of approximately 6,714 feet (2,048 meters). Its mountain setting offers breathtaking panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding foothills, creating an immersive experience that combines wildlife conservation, education, and recreation.
History and Development
The zoo’s founding by Spencer Penrose stemmed from his vision to create a world-class zoological park in Colorado Springs. Penrose personally collected the initial animals and designed many of the early facilities. Over the decades, the zoo has expanded significantly, evolving from a modest collection into a modern facility with expansive naturalistic habitats tailored to the needs of diverse species. It has grown into a major regional attraction, drawing visitors from across the country and internationally.
Animal Collection and Exhibits
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to more than 750 animals across nearly 170 species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. The zoo emphasizes species conservation and education, particularly focusing on endangered and threatened species. Its animal exhibits are designed to simulate natural habitats, fostering animal welfare and promoting visitor understanding of wildlife ecology.
Key exhibits include:
African Rift Valley: This area showcases iconic African species such as reticulated giraffes, zebras, impalas, and meerkats. The zoo is particularly famous for its large herd of reticulated giraffes, among the largest in North America. Visitors can participate in giraffe feeding experiences, which are a popular interactive attraction.
Encounter Africa: An immersive exhibit highlighting African elephants, black rhinos, lions, and meerkats. The exhibit has been recognized for its innovative design that balances animal care with visitor engagement. The spacious habitats provide enrichment opportunities for the animals and enable visitors to observe natural behaviors.
Asian Highlands: This section focuses on species from the mountainous regions of Asia, including Amur tigers, snow leopards, red pandas, and Asian bears. The habitats replicate the cooler, forested environments these animals inhabit in the wild.
Rocky Mountain Wild: Dedicated to native North American wildlife, this area features animals such as grizzly bears, mountain lions, lynx, and moose. The exhibit educates visitors about local ecosystems and the challenges faced by native species.
Primate World: Housing orangutans, gorillas, and various monkey species, this exhibit emphasizes primate behavior, intelligence, and conservation issues. The naturalistic environments encourage enrichment and social interaction among the animals.
The Loft: An interactive education area where guests can meet smaller animals like sloths, ravens, and chinchillas. This space also introduces visitors to careers in animal care and conservation, inspiring the next generation of wildlife advocates.
My Big Backyard: Designed especially for children, this hands-on area allows young visitors to interact with farm animals such as goats, rabbits, and chickens in a safe and engaging environment.
Conservation Initiatives
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo plays a vital role in global and regional conservation efforts. It participates in over 30 Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs, cooperative breeding programs established by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to maintain genetically healthy populations of endangered species. The zoo focuses on species such as black-footed ferrets, Mexican gray wolves, and reticulated giraffes, contributing to the survival and reintroduction of these animals in the wild.
The zoo's Quarters for Conservation program has raised millions of dollars to support worldwide conservation projects, including habitat preservation, anti-poaching efforts, and community education. Through these programs, the zoo extends its impact beyond its gates, engaging visitors in global wildlife stewardship.
Visitor Attractions and Experiences
Mountaineer Sky Ride: This chairlift takes visitors on a scenic journey up the mountain, offering spectacular views of the zoo, Cheyenne Mountain, and the city of Colorado Springs below. The ride ends near a summit yurt and playground, providing a relaxing space to enjoy the landscape.
Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun: Located within the zoo grounds, this historic monument and chapel built in the 1930s honors humorist Will Rogers and features impressive architecture and stained-glass windows. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views.
Historic Carousel: The zoo features a beautifully restored antique carousel, built around 1925 and relocated to the zoo in 1937. The carousel provides nostalgic charm and a family-friendly ride experience.
Animal Demonstrations and Keeper Talks: Throughout the day, staff lead educational talks and demonstrations that highlight animal behaviors, conservation challenges, and the zoo’s work. Popular sessions include giraffe feedings, penguin talks, and otter demonstrations, offering opportunities for visitor interaction and learning.
Facilities and Accessibility
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admission at 4 p.m. The zoo is wheelchair accessible and offers free wheelchair rentals to ensure that all guests can enjoy the exhibits comfortably.
The zoo provides various amenities, including picnic areas, cafés, gift shops, and stroller rentals. On-site parking is available, and the terrain includes hills and slopes due to the mountainous location, which visitors should consider when planning their visit.
Educational Programs and Community Engagement
Beyond its role as a visitor attraction, the zoo offers extensive educational programs for all ages. School groups can participate in field trips and hands-on learning experiences aligned with science and conservation curricula. The zoo also hosts summer camps, wildlife workshops, and volunteer opportunities.
The zoo’s commitment to community outreach includes public events like ZooBoo during Halloween and Zoo Lights during the winter holidays, which combine entertainment with educational messages about wildlife and conservation.
Location and Access
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is situated at 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906. Its location on the southern side of Colorado Springs, near the base of Cheyenne Mountain, makes it easily accessible by car from downtown and surrounding areas.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo uniquely combines its mountain setting with world-class animal care, immersive exhibits, and a strong conservation mission. Its blend of interactive experiences, educational programming, and commitment to species preservation makes it a standout destination for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers seeking both entertainment and inspiration in Colorado Springs.