Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary can be found in this Alberta town

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is located in Alberta and provides an informative look into the majestic and wild lives of wolfdogs year-round.

This 160-acre nonprofit sanctuary dedicates itself to educating the public on these animals, as well as assisting in homing displaced wolfdogs.

According to the sanctuary, it is currently the permanent home to over 55 wolfdogs. With the sanctuary offering a selection of tour options, visitors are able to enter and learn more about these stunning wolfdogs and wolf conservation as well.

If you want to get a closer look at these stunning animals, this is the perfect spot to stop by and take a peek.

What to know before visiting Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

Where is the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary?

The sanctuary is located east of the Rocky Mountains, near Cochrane and less than an hour drive from Calgary.

How do you get there?

The sanctuary isn’t accessible by standard public transit. According to the sanctuary, visitors will need a vehicle, rental car or prearranged taxi. If you need help finding the place, you’ll want to visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary’s website for exact directions.

When is it open?

You can visit this spot year-round. Its exact opening hours are Thursday to Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last admission at 4:15 p.m.

What is there to see in the sanctuary?

Of course, there are over 55 wolfdogs to see and visit during your walk through the sanctuary.

In addition to the wolfdogs, the sanctuary has a new visitor centre where folks can buy souvenirs and learn additional information and resources about the animals. All of the proceeds from these merchandise sales go directly towards supporting the wolfdogs and incoming rescues.

What kind of tours are there?

Currently, there are four tours being run at the sanctuary. We’re going to be highlighting three, sans the new Photography Tour.

There’s the Sanctuary Walk, which is for those looking to go at their own pace. With the help of informative signage, you’ll be able to learn more about the wolfdogs and make your way through all the enclosures. You’ll also be able to join in on one of the daily Wolfdog Wisdom Sessions, held at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. The minimum age for this tour is six years old.

During the 30-minute Intro Tour, one of the guides takes you into an enclosure and onto a large viewing platform, which provides “front row” viewing of the wolfdogs. You’ll be able to photograph them without visual barriers and have access to your own expert to answer any questions you may have. This tour also includes general admission to the sanctuary. The minimum age for this tour is 10 years old.

Their final tour is the Interactive Tour, which gives guests the opportunity to get hands-on with the wolfdogs for up to a full hour. This tour will give you insight into these creatures alongside the opportunity to hear stories of the pack and their behaviours. This tour, once again, includes general admission to the sanctuary, and the minimum age for this tour is 15 years old.

How much do tours cost?

It’s only $37 per person for the Sanctuary Walk, or $22 per person for those between six and 11 years old. As for the Intro Tour, it costs $52 per person. The Interactive Tour is $99 per person, and the sanctuary suggests booking your tickets one to two weeks in advance.

Are there rules?

Yes, there is a full list of important rules to follow as outlined by the sanctuary itself.

According to the sanctuary, no dogs are permitted anywhere on the property, including service dogs and dogs left inside vehicles. There is no smoking allowed on site, and this also includes the parking lot.

For those bringing children, there’s a minimum age of six. Keep in mind, children are not allowed to run, wander, or behave loudly on the sanctuary grounds, and those not respecting sanctuary policies will be asked to leave immediately.

This goes for loud or unruly behaviour towards the wolfdogs as well. Those whistling, calling, heckling, or throwing things into the enclosure, or anyone found not respecting their policies, no matter what age, will be asked to leave immediately.

For those planning to visit, you can find the full list of rules on the sanctuary’s website.