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Posted in Utah Winter February 02, 2017 by Catherine Armstrong

The Unique Ranch Everyone In Utah Should Visit This Winter

Did you know that there’s a ranch in Utah where you can view elk up close? Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area has an elk feeding program, and during the winter months, you can see the herd up close. Take a look:

Rocky Mountain Elk is the state mammal.

Hardware Ranch began operations in 1945.

Every winter, as many as 600 elk come down from the mountains to hang out at Hardware Ranch.

Because of development in the Cache Valley, there isn't enough winter habitat to support the elk population.

Hardware Ranch grows it own hay to feed the elk throughout the winter.

You can take a sleigh ride out to visit the herd.

Each sleigh ride lasts 20-30 minutes.

Your sleigh is pulled by the resident Clydesdales.

During your sleigh ride, you'll have a chance to see elk up close.

You might notice that some of the elk have ear tags.

Every winter, the Division of Wildlife Resources corrals a small number of elk.

These elk are tested for diseases such as brucellosis and tuberculosis.

They're also weighed and given ear tags so that the DWR can continue to keep track of them.

The Visitor Center at Hardware Ranch is open during the elk viewing season.

Hardware Ranch is located 15 miles east of Hyrum.

Have you ever had the opportunity to visit Hardware Ranch? Tell us about your experience!

If you’d like to view more of Utah’s wildlife, visit the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge.

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Catherine Armstrong

Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.