The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower, also known as the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, is a captivating 114-foot tall monument located on the side of Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This architectural marvel, completed in 1937, stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
The History and Significance of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower was named in honor of the renowned actor, philosopher, and humorist Will Rogers, who tragically passed away in a plane crash during the Shrine’s construction in 1935. The Shrine is a remarkable feat of engineering, as it is constructed entirely of Cheyenne Mountain granite, steel, and cement, with no nails or wood used in its construction.
Exploring the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower
Visitors can access the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower by car through the Russell Tutt Scenic Highway, which winds its way through the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Once at the Shrine, visitors can explore its many cultural attractions, including a stunning 340-square-foot mural by renowned Santa Fe artist Randall Davey, which depicts the history of the Pikes Peak region.
The Shrine’s Unique Features
One of the Shrine’s most iconic features is its sophisticated instrument, which chimes every quarter hour and on the hour, and plays a musical program every day at 10:00am, 12:00pm, and 5:00pm. Visitors can also find the tombs of Spencer and Julie Penrose, the philanthropists who built the Shrine, in the Shrine’s chapel.
Accessing the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower
Admission to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower is free, but visitors must have advance tickets to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo to access the highway leading to the Shrine. The Shrine is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9:00am to 4:00pm, with the last car permitted up the Shrine road at 3:00pm. Visitors should dress accordingly, as the elevation can make the weather unpredictable, and should bring their own water, as there is no water available for visitors.
Exploring the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
In addition to the Shrine, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a variety of exhibits and experiences for visitors. The Zoo is home to over 750 animals, including Amur tigers, African elephants, and grizzly bears. Visitors can also take part in animal encounters, ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride, or attend special events like the Zoo’s annual Run to the Shrine.
Unique Experiences at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Animal Encounters | Visitors can get up close and personal with the Zoo’s animals, such as feeding the giraffes or meeting the sloths. |
| Mountaineer Sky Ride | This scenic gondola ride offers breathtaking views of the Zoo and the surrounding Cheyenne Mountain. |
| Run to the Shrine | The Zoo’s annual 5K run takes participants on a challenging course that ends at the iconic Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower. |
Conclusion
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Tower is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the natural beauty and rich history of Colorado Springs. With its stunning architecture, cultural attractions, and the surrounding Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Shrine offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.