This immersive wildlife experience near Calgary lets you walk alongside wolfdogs

Animal lovers, this one’s for you. Just outside of Calgary, tucked into the foothills of the Rockies, sits Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary. It is home to more than 55 rescued wolfdogs living in a calm, natural environment.

This isn’t your typical animal attraction. The focus here is on education, respect, and providing these animals with a safe place to live after being rescued from difficult situations.

It’s the kind of place that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for wildlife.

About the experience

If you’re planning a visit to the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, there are a few different tour options to choose from, depending on how close you want to get to the animals.

A self-guided sanctuary walk is the most relaxed option, allowing you to explore the grounds at your own pace while viewing the different packs from designated areas.

For a more structured experience, the Intro Tour offers a guided visit from a viewing platform where an expert will share insights about the animals and answer any questions you may have as you observe them up close.

If you want something completely immersive, the Interactive Tour allows guests to step inside select enclosures and spend quality time with the wolfdogs. In some cases, they may even take treats from your hand under supervision, which makes for a pretty unforgettable experience.

Each tour is designed not just for viewing, but also for education and awareness, with all proceeds going directly back into caring for the animals and supporting ongoing rescue efforts.

I actually visited when I was 15, and I am not exaggerating when I say it was one of the best experiences of my life. I did the Interactive Tour, which was so informative, and getting to step inside the enclosure and feed the wolfdogs was incredible. It’s definitely one of those experiences that sticks with you long after you leave.

Plan your visit

More than just a visitor attraction, Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is a non-profit focused on rescue and education. It’s set on 160 acres, giving wolfdogs a safe place to thrive.

You can book tours online, with pricing starting at $37 per person, depending on the experience. The Sanctuary walk is the most budget-friendly option, while the guided and Interactive Tours are priced higher due to the more in-depth experience.

During your visit to the sanctuary, it’s recommended to wear practical clothing, such as closed-toed shoes, and to avoid loose or fluffy items, as the wolfdogs can get curious.

If you’re in the Calgary area, Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is worth checking out at least once. It is one of those experiences that is quiet, interesting, and really stays with you long after you leave.

When: Open Thursday to Monday
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 263156 Range Rd. 53, Cochrane, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $37 for adults, $22 for youth

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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