URGENT UPDATE: Starting December 5, 2023, winter wildlife enthusiasts can embark on enchanting sleigh rides among wild elk at Utah’s Hardware Wildlife Management Area (WMA). This seasonal experience, hosted by Haviland’s Old West Adventures, runs through February 15, 2024, offering visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and on select dates like December 22, 23, 29, 30, and 31, patrons can witness hundreds of majestic elk in their natural habitat. These rides promise not just adventure but an educational journey into the world of elk, with an “All About Elk” exhibit available at the onsite Education Center.
The excitement continues with festive activities such as Christmas ornament-making using native flora. Director Marni Lee emphasizes that these sessions provide guests a chance to take home a piece of the WMA’s beauty.
Ticket prices are wallet-friendly: $12.50 for adults and children over 9, $5 for ages 4 to 8, and free for children under 3. However, tickets must be purchased in-person at the Hardware Wildlife Education Center on the day of the ride.
Visitors planning their trips should note that Hardware WMA is located 16 miles east of Hyrum on State Route 101, winding through the stunning Blacksmith Fork Canyon. This picturesque route leads to an unforgettable winter experience, where nature awaits.
While reveling in the beauty of wildlife, there are concerns regarding brucellosis, a disease affecting elk and bison in the Greater Yellowstone Area. The bacteria, Brucella abortus, can lead to abortions and low fertility rates among infected wildlife. As elk at Hardware WMA are known for their extensive migration, wildlife managers are vigilant about mitigating this risk.
Jim Christensen, Wildlife Manager for the DWR Northern Region, explains that the season’s timing is deliberate, aiming to encourage elk dispersion during critical periods when disease transmission is more likely.
As visitors prepare for their winter adventure, they are reminded that they are stepping into a delicate ecosystem, where their presence must be balanced with the health of the wildlife. For further details or to plan your visit, consult the DWR website or contact Hardware WMA directly via phone or email.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of winter wildlife at Hardware WMA! As the days grow colder, the allure of the wild elk and the serene landscapes beckon those ready to embrace nature’s splendor. Share this incredible opportunity with friends and family to spread the joy of this seasonal adventure.
