I know that this is not the time of year to write this blog but I was going through my photos and decided that anytime was a good time to share a good travel destination. You may want to make plans ahead.

Despite the sometimes bitter cold about 50,000 people come to Hardware Ranch for a day trip. They come for family outings, research and dates. It is an outdoor winter activity so be sure to bundle up. Wear hats, gloves, scarves and a blanket will help keep you warm as you sit in the wagon.

The elk viewing wagon ride could be a sleigh ride. It depends on how much snow is on the ground. The number of elk wintering at Hardware Ranch is determined by the amount of snow on the ground and their ability to find food higher up in the mountains. The number can reach upwards of 600 if the conditions as right.

Did you know that the Rocky Mountain Elk that winter at Hardware Ranch are the Utah State Mammal? Getting up close to these massive animals is something you don’t get to do often. Going on this day trip is not only a mini vacation but a full out educational field trip.

The ride up the canyon is extraordinarily beautiful. If you are a camera buff or photographer allow extra time to stop along the way to take photos. There is a river that runs along the road, gorgeous mountain and if you’re lucky wildlife to photograph.

Open from mid December thru February.

Monday & Friday Noon to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The last ride leaves at 4:30 p.m.

Go to the visitor center and buy your tickets before going to get in line for the wagon ride. The visitor center is up the hill and can be reached by walking or driving.

The Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area is a research and habitat area for many types of wildlife. The Visitors Center is educational for young and old alike. They have activities such as making native animal tracks in a sand bed, getting up close to taxidermied a elk and cougar, feel and see the furs of several animals native to the area, play educational games and answer trivia. They have people there to answer questions as well. The visitors center over looks where the wagon rides out to the elk herd. take place and if you have your binoculars you can see them from there.

There is no restaurant there but you could bring a picnic and eat it in the Visitor Center dining room. Bring something hot to drink as you will be chilled by the end of the ride and something hot is always welcome.

They even have an Elk Festival the week of the opening of Hardware Ranch. They have activities and storytelling.

If you fish, hunt, hike, off-road, or snowmobile check this area for year round activities.

No matter when you come the Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area Elk Herd Wagon/Sleigh ride is sure to be a fun outing.