Did you know New Mexico’s wolf population has been slowly growing over the past decade? After decades of population reduction, the number of Mexican gray wolves dwindled down to just a few dozen spread across New Mexico and Arizona.
While coming across one of these wolves would be an extremely rare experience—currently, there are a mere 132 spread across the two states—you can see these majestic animals at the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary.
Founded in 1991, the sanctuary is currently home to more than 60 wolves, wolf dogs, and other canines.
Meredith Zajac/Google The sanctuary is located in a secluded mountain area just south of Ramah and El Morro National Monument.
The sanctuary provides lifetime care for formerly captive canines, particularly ones from abusive or exploitative homes. They are provided needed medical care and nutritious meals…
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary/Facebook
…and expansive enclosures where they can live in a safe, peaceful environment that better replicates their natural habitat.
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary/Facebook
The wolves are also provided with stimulating activities that engage their natural instincts and opportunities to be themselves.
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary/Facebook
Some of the wolves, wolf dogs, and other canines are okay with human interaction, while others prefer to avoid human contact as much as possible.
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary/Facebook Those that get along with or crave human attention, such as this fluffy guy, often attend educational and social events to raise awareness about the status of wolves.
You can also visit Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary and see some of these canines up close!
Bruce Mathieu/Google
The sprawling sanctuary is open for guided tours Tuesday through Sunday and for special events.
Alex Lackner/Google During these standard tours, you will learn about the animals, how they are cared for, and more.
You can participate in a meet-and-greet to see the wolves and foxes up close, walk them, or even help feed them.
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary/Facebook
This is definitely one unique experience we know you and your family will love!
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary/Facebook
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary is located at 378 Candy Kitchen Road near Ramah, about two hours west of Albuquerque via Interstate 40 and Highway 53.
Meredith Zajac/Google
The sanctuary is located in a secluded mountain area just south of Ramah and El Morro National Monument.
Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary/Facebook
Those that get along with or crave human attention, such as this fluffy guy, often attend educational and social events to raise awareness about the status of wolves.
Bruce Mathieu/Google
Alex Lackner/Google
During these standard tours, you will learn about the animals, how they are cared for, and more.
The sanctuary is open for tours Tuesday through Sunday. Ticket prices are $5 for children age 12 and under, $8 for seniors, and $10 for adults. For details about private and group tours, special events, and more, visit their website or Facebook page.
Want to visit another animal sanctuary in New Mexico? We bet you will love visiting the Wildlife West Nature Park in Edgewood! Read more about the wildlife preserve in This Walk-Through Safari Park In New Mexico Is The Best Way To See Wildlife Up Close.
Address: 378 Candy Kitchen Road, Ramah, NM 87321
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