Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, also known as Cheyenne Mountain Highway, is a 7.5-mile (12.1 km) road in Colorado Springs, Colorado that leads to the renowned Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Cheyenne Mountain, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and zoo lovers alike.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: A Unique Animal Encounter
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, located along the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, is a premier tourist attraction in Colorado Springs. Open 365 days a year, the zoo boasts an impressive collection of over 750 animals, including some of the largest reticulated giraffe herds in the world. Visitors can enjoy a variety of unique experiences, such as hand-feeding the giraffes, watching grizzly bears swim with trout, and getting up close with red-necked wallabies and African penguins.
Zoo Hours and Admission
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admission at 4 p.m. However, it’s important to note that not all animals will be on exhibit until 5 p.m., so it’s recommended to check the zoo’s website for daily schedules and hours of operation. Admission prices vary based on the time of day and day of the week, and reservations are required.
Accessibility and Amenities
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is committed to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors. The zoo offers accessible parking spaces, a guest service shuttle, wheelchair and motorized scooter rentals, and allows trained service animals. Additionally, the zoo features a gift shop, on-site restaurants, and meeting spaces, including the Zoo Buyout and the Lodge at Moose Lake.
Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun
In addition to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road also leads to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, a monument built in 1937 to honor the famous humorist and actor, Will Rogers. The Shrine is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, and has periodic daily closures throughout the year.
Unique Features of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road offers several unique features that make it a standout destination:
Scenic Views
The road provides breathtaking views of the Cheyenne Mountain and the city of Colorado Springs, offering a picturesque backdrop for your visit to the zoo and the Shrine.
Paved and Unpaved Sections
The road is paved up to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun and is maintained by the Colorado Department of Transportation. Beyond the Shrine, the road becomes an unpaved private road leading to The Horns, the northern peak of Cheyenne Mountain.
Accessibility and Parking
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers accessible parking spaces adjacent to the front admission gates, making it easy for visitors with mobility needs to access the zoo.
Conclusion
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Colorado Springs. Whether you’re interested in the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s unique animal encounters, the historic Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, or the breathtaking scenic views, this road offers a truly unforgettable experience. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road.