We’re thrilled to announce another MARS tour to The Wild Animal Sanctuary (TWAS) on Monday May 12 starting at 9 a.m. when they open.
The address is 2999 County Road 53, Keenesburg (click for map and directions), and it’s easy to find. Just take I-76 to Hudson, head east and follow the signs, just a few minutes off the highway. It’s about a 1 hour drive, depending on where you live in the Denver area.
TWAS is the world’s oldest and largest carnivore sanctuary, and this original facility was started by MARS Member Carolyn Malaby’s friend Pat Craig in 1980. You may have seen the great story on Sixty Minutes several years ago documenting their rescue of the animals at the Puerto Rico Zoo. There’s a 1.5 mile elevated walkway (3-mile roundtrip with wheelchairs and carts available for rental) which provides great views of the animals and the Front Range. You will see lions and tigers and bears oh my and wolves, camels, leopards and more.
I’ve been there every month of the year, and it’s almost always windy. So hold on to your hat (and wear sunscreen) but bring a camera and binoculars. Bring your lunch or buy food at the Lion’s Den Café and Ice Cream Café and stay all day until sunset if you want. I love the good home cooking at the Pepper Pod in Hudson which has been open for many years so I will conclude my day there.
The Particulars:
The entrance fee is just $20 if you’re over 70 and $50 if not. This is a private facility with big food and veterinary bills.
Meet at the Welcome Center at 9:00 to watch the video and meet our TWAS leader who will share info about their mission. You will be asked to sign a waiver on screen. Then you’re free to walk at your own pace to the tiger round house (or as far as you want), rest out of the sun in the Lion House, visit the shop and buy cute stuff for the grandkids, picnic and look at the stunning creatures.
We recommend carpooling and bringing your own water, although water is available for purchase at the location. Check out the website so you’ll know what to expect on your visit. We promise you’ll be amazed and glad you came!
Payment of the entry fee will be at the entrance, so arrive a few minutes early. To sign up, click the button below to send Carolyn an email telling her you’re attending and how many will be in your party. Please sign up no later than May 10, 2025.
