The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Lift, also known as the Mountaineer Sky Ride, is a unique and exhilarating attraction within the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This chairlift-style, open-air ride offers visitors a chance to soar above the zoo, taking in stunning views of Cheyenne Mountain, the city of Colorado Springs, and the Eastern Plains.
What is the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Lift?
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Lift is a Doppelmayr CTEC Sprint model chairlift, featuring an intrepid-model top terminal and a bottom station. This ride is known for its steep incline, which provides a thrilling and unique experience for visitors. The lift operates within the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, offering a bird’s-eye view of the zoo’s diverse animal exhibits and the surrounding natural landscape.
Ticket Pricing and Zoo Hours
Riding the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Lift is an additional cost to the zoo admission. Adult tickets are priced at $5, while child tickets are $4 when purchased inside the zoo. Combo packages are available at the zoo’s front entry gate, offering a $1 discount on Sky Ride tickets when purchased with your zoo admission.
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for special events and early closures. For example, the zoo will close early at 4 p.m. on Thursday, June 27, 2024, for the evening fundraising event, Moonlight on the Mountain. Additionally, the zoo will host Dog Days on select dates, allowing well-behaved dogs to accompany visitors.
Location and Accessibility
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is located in southwest Colorado Springs, on the side of Cheyenne Mountain, above The Broadmoor resort. Driving directions from I-25 are provided on the zoo’s website, making it easily accessible for visitors.
It is important to note that timed e-tickets must be purchased in advance and are subject to selling out on popular days. A limited number of e-tickets are available to enter during each time period, and all individuals visiting the zoo, including children age 2 and under, must have their own advance e-ticket.
Unique Features of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Lift
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Lift stands out for several reasons:
- Steep Incline: The lift is known for its steep incline, which provides a thrilling and unique experience for visitors.
- Panoramic Views: The open-air design of the chairlift offers visitors a panoramic view of the zoo, Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado Springs, and the Eastern Plains.
- Integration with the Zoo: The lift is seamlessly integrated into the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, allowing visitors to easily access and enjoy this attraction as part of their overall zoo experience.
Preparing for Your Visit
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Lift, it’s important to plan your visit in advance. Here are some tips:
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: Due to the limited availability of timed e-tickets, it’s recommended to purchase your tickets online before your visit to secure your spot.
- Dress Appropriately: The open-air chairlift can be affected by weather conditions, so it’s important to dress in layers and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
- Arrive Early: To avoid crowds and ensure you have enough time to explore the zoo and ride the lift, it’s best to arrive early in the day.
- Check for Special Events: Be aware of any special events or early closures that may affect your visit, such as the Moonlight on the Mountain fundraiser or the Dog Days events.
Conclusion
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Lift is a unique and thrilling addition to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo experience. With its steep incline, panoramic views, and seamless integration with the zoo, this chairlift-style ride offers visitors a one-of-a-kind opportunity to soar above the zoo and take in the stunning natural surroundings. By planning your visit in advance and being prepared for the unique features of the lift, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
References:
– TripAdvisor Review
– Lift Blog – Mountaineer Sky Ride
– Lift Blog – Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Mountaineer Sky Ride
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Visit