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Regular Hours: (last admission is 30 minutes prior to closing) September - June: Sundays: 12 - 4 pm (closed mid December - mid February) July - August: Fridays: 12 - 3 pm Saturdays: 12 - 3 pm Sundays: 12 - 4 pm |
Will Pryor, Founder & Head Animal Care Specialist
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FAQ's:
Do I need reservations?
Reservations are not needed unless otherwise noted for special programs or private tours.
How much is admission?
General admission is only $8 per person; kids 5 and under are free and 100% of the fee (along with donations & proceeds from gift shop sales) goes right back into care and food for the animals! Our staff is completely all volunteer, so no money is used to pay staff. Special programs such as photography sessions, camp programs, and special events may have additional fees.
Is there parking for a large camper or bus?
Yes! We literally have acres of available free parking for vehicles of all sizes. Our driveway is packed gravel and is steep, but we have campers, trucks, school buses, coach buses, and cars of all types navigate easily. Please follow posted speed limits and use caution. Motorcycles are permitted, but be aware there may be loose gravel and ruts on the driveway.
Are there special tour times?
Docent guided tours leave our Welcome Cabin area at 12:30 pm on Sundays. These educational tours last approximately one hour, include visits at each animal enclosure, and are included with your $8 entry fee. Due to the slower pace, these tours might not be suitable for younger children with bundles of energy.
Prefer to wander at your own pace? Visitors can ask to see a map at the admissions cabin. The map shows the various stations/stops along the self guided trail with informational kiosks located throughout the center. Staff are located at each station to answer questions and to provide additional information. We are a nature and wolf preserve and encourage visitors to stop and enjoy the animals and the pastoral environment.
What do we do at the center?
Visitors are encouraged to take their time and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while watching the animals. We have 23 animals located in 13 various enclosures spread throughout the 70 acres encompassing the center. In addition, we have nature trails in our forest where walkers can watch and listen for various flora and fauna, climb into the Wishing Tree, read about our magnificent Lightning Tree, and look for frogs at the pond. Benches are located near animal exhibits for resting and quiet observation. Depending on staff availability, guided ecology forest hikes and various animal enrichment programs occur (these are spontaneous programs and have no preset times--upon arrival staff will notify visitors what program(s) may be occurring at what times on any specific day). During the mild weather seasons our tepee village is set up for exploring. The center operates 100% on solar power--staff are more than happy to discuss how its works. We also have a picnic area with hibachi grills for use (we do not sell concessions), a hands-on classroom (which is heated during cooler weather), and a gift shop.
What is the best time to see the animals?
Anytime! Our animals have all been raised by humans from puppy-hood, so they are very accustomed to human presence and typically are very close to fences to check out the two legged visitors. Our wolves and Arctic Foxes are Alaskan/Arctic animals so they thrive in colder temperatures and tend to be much more active during cooler evenings and winter months! Of course they are still visible in warmer months, but may exhibit a more laid back behavior. Our number one priority is the comfort of the animals, therefore we never force them to "expose" themselves to the public if the animal chooses to relax in the tall grass/woods out of sight. Rest assured though--you will definitely see wolves, foxes, and coyotes!
When do you feed the wolves?
Our wolves eat three or four times a week; usually when temperatures are cooler so they can process the food better (remember, these are Alaskan/Arctic animals who thrive in the cold!). As with all enrichment programs, we will announce to visitors upon arrival if a feeding program will be occurring during your visit.
Can we touch/pet the wolves? Can we go in with the wolves?
No! No! No! New York State regulations prohibit visitors from having physical contact with pure wolves! ONLY our trained, experienced animals caretakers are permitted to enter enclosures and have physical contact with the animals. Typically our caretakers have spent hundreds of hours at the center learning, observing, and discussing wolf behaviors prior to becoming certified to work in direct contact with any of our animals. Although the wolves have been exposed to human contact since puppy-hood, they accept a select few individuals as a part of their "pack", thus allowing these humans to enter wolf territory. Our wolves may appear to be "tame", but they are still wild animals and as such, retain many of their wild behaviors. Having total strangers enter their space can be very traumatic--imagine having strangers enter your home uninvited and hugging you and your kids!
Can we take photographs and videos of the animals?
Absolutely! Our animals are as close to you as only four feet away so its easy to get pictures of them. For those who wish to take photos without fencing between the animal and the camera, consider registering for one of our special photography sessions. See our special events listing for dates, times, and registration fees for these programs.
Do you have a gift shop? Do you have concessions?
We do have a gift shop where most items are priced $25 or less! Everything from t-shirts, hoodies, pj pants, puzzles, stuffed animals, jewelry, ornaments, key rings, magnets, blankets, & more is wolf themed!
We do not sell any food or drinks at the center (except water during July-August). We have many picnic tables throughout the center that may be utilized for your own brought in foods; we also have two hibachi grills that you may use during your visit.
How much walking is involved? How much time will I spend at the center?
All of the animal exhibits can be viewed by walking an approximately 3/4 mile loop on grassy or gravel pathways. Benches are located throughout the route to stop, rest, observe, and enjoy. Since visitors walk at their own pace, visits vary greatly in length. The average time spent here (without stopping for a picnic) is about two hours.
Are trails handicap accessible?
Our trails and walkways are not paved, but are grassy and contain some uneven terrain. However, we frequently have visitors who navigate easily in wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers. We have a restroom and gift shop entrance with a ramp for added accessibility for those with physical challenges.
Are service animals permitted? Are pets permitted?
Unfortunately we cannot allow pets and other animals on center grounds. Wolves are extremely territorial animals and become very agitated when they sense other animals, especially canines, in their territory. Even if your pet is left in your vehicle, our wolves will see, smell, or hear your pet and become frustrated, thus causing stress. At the Center, we do everything possible to alleviate undue stress in our animals, so please leave your pets/service animals at home. Should you need aid in navigating the center, one of our volunteers will gladly provide assistance.
Is smoking/alcohol permitted?
No! We are a smoke-free (this includes all types of cigars, cigarettes, pipes, e-smokers, jules, etc.) and an alcohol-free environment.
Do I need reservations?
Reservations are not needed unless otherwise noted for special programs or private tours.
How much is admission?
General admission is only $8 per person; kids 5 and under are free and 100% of the fee (along with donations & proceeds from gift shop sales) goes right back into care and food for the animals! Our staff is completely all volunteer, so no money is used to pay staff. Special programs such as photography sessions, camp programs, and special events may have additional fees.
Is there parking for a large camper or bus?
Yes! We literally have acres of available free parking for vehicles of all sizes. Our driveway is packed gravel and is steep, but we have campers, trucks, school buses, coach buses, and cars of all types navigate easily. Please follow posted speed limits and use caution. Motorcycles are permitted, but be aware there may be loose gravel and ruts on the driveway.
Are there special tour times?
Docent guided tours leave our Welcome Cabin area at 12:30 pm on Sundays. These educational tours last approximately one hour, include visits at each animal enclosure, and are included with your $8 entry fee. Due to the slower pace, these tours might not be suitable for younger children with bundles of energy.
Prefer to wander at your own pace? Visitors can ask to see a map at the admissions cabin. The map shows the various stations/stops along the self guided trail with informational kiosks located throughout the center. Staff are located at each station to answer questions and to provide additional information. We are a nature and wolf preserve and encourage visitors to stop and enjoy the animals and the pastoral environment.
What do we do at the center?
Visitors are encouraged to take their time and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while watching the animals. We have 23 animals located in 13 various enclosures spread throughout the 70 acres encompassing the center. In addition, we have nature trails in our forest where walkers can watch and listen for various flora and fauna, climb into the Wishing Tree, read about our magnificent Lightning Tree, and look for frogs at the pond. Benches are located near animal exhibits for resting and quiet observation. Depending on staff availability, guided ecology forest hikes and various animal enrichment programs occur (these are spontaneous programs and have no preset times--upon arrival staff will notify visitors what program(s) may be occurring at what times on any specific day). During the mild weather seasons our tepee village is set up for exploring. The center operates 100% on solar power--staff are more than happy to discuss how its works. We also have a picnic area with hibachi grills for use (we do not sell concessions), a hands-on classroom (which is heated during cooler weather), and a gift shop.
What is the best time to see the animals?
Anytime! Our animals have all been raised by humans from puppy-hood, so they are very accustomed to human presence and typically are very close to fences to check out the two legged visitors. Our wolves and Arctic Foxes are Alaskan/Arctic animals so they thrive in colder temperatures and tend to be much more active during cooler evenings and winter months! Of course they are still visible in warmer months, but may exhibit a more laid back behavior. Our number one priority is the comfort of the animals, therefore we never force them to "expose" themselves to the public if the animal chooses to relax in the tall grass/woods out of sight. Rest assured though--you will definitely see wolves, foxes, and coyotes!
When do you feed the wolves?
Our wolves eat three or four times a week; usually when temperatures are cooler so they can process the food better (remember, these are Alaskan/Arctic animals who thrive in the cold!). As with all enrichment programs, we will announce to visitors upon arrival if a feeding program will be occurring during your visit.
Can we touch/pet the wolves? Can we go in with the wolves?
No! No! No! New York State regulations prohibit visitors from having physical contact with pure wolves! ONLY our trained, experienced animals caretakers are permitted to enter enclosures and have physical contact with the animals. Typically our caretakers have spent hundreds of hours at the center learning, observing, and discussing wolf behaviors prior to becoming certified to work in direct contact with any of our animals. Although the wolves have been exposed to human contact since puppy-hood, they accept a select few individuals as a part of their "pack", thus allowing these humans to enter wolf territory. Our wolves may appear to be "tame", but they are still wild animals and as such, retain many of their wild behaviors. Having total strangers enter their space can be very traumatic--imagine having strangers enter your home uninvited and hugging you and your kids!
Can we take photographs and videos of the animals?
Absolutely! Our animals are as close to you as only four feet away so its easy to get pictures of them. For those who wish to take photos without fencing between the animal and the camera, consider registering for one of our special photography sessions. See our special events listing for dates, times, and registration fees for these programs.
Do you have a gift shop? Do you have concessions?
We do have a gift shop where most items are priced $25 or less! Everything from t-shirts, hoodies, pj pants, puzzles, stuffed animals, jewelry, ornaments, key rings, magnets, blankets, & more is wolf themed!
We do not sell any food or drinks at the center (except water during July-August). We have many picnic tables throughout the center that may be utilized for your own brought in foods; we also have two hibachi grills that you may use during your visit.
How much walking is involved? How much time will I spend at the center?
All of the animal exhibits can be viewed by walking an approximately 3/4 mile loop on grassy or gravel pathways. Benches are located throughout the route to stop, rest, observe, and enjoy. Since visitors walk at their own pace, visits vary greatly in length. The average time spent here (without stopping for a picnic) is about two hours.
Are trails handicap accessible?
Our trails and walkways are not paved, but are grassy and contain some uneven terrain. However, we frequently have visitors who navigate easily in wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers. We have a restroom and gift shop entrance with a ramp for added accessibility for those with physical challenges.
Are service animals permitted? Are pets permitted?
Unfortunately we cannot allow pets and other animals on center grounds. Wolves are extremely territorial animals and become very agitated when they sense other animals, especially canines, in their territory. Even if your pet is left in your vehicle, our wolves will see, smell, or hear your pet and become frustrated, thus causing stress. At the Center, we do everything possible to alleviate undue stress in our animals, so please leave your pets/service animals at home. Should you need aid in navigating the center, one of our volunteers will gladly provide assistance.
Is smoking/alcohol permitted?
No! We are a smoke-free (this includes all types of cigars, cigarettes, pipes, e-smokers, jules, etc.) and an alcohol-free environment.
Address: 562 Hopkins Crandall Road, Smyrna, NY 13464
Phone: 607-627-6784
General Admission Ages 5 & under -- free
Ages 6 & up -- $8.00
Special programs and events may have additional fees.
Driving Directions:
From Syracuse/Cazenovia: Rt 481 south to Rt 5/92 heading towards Manlius/Cazenovia. In Cazenovia, turn left onto Rt 20 east. Go about 3/4 mile, then turn right onto Rt 13 heading towards New Woodstock. Go about 7 miles-- as you approach New Woodstock, the road will come to a "T"; turn left and continue following Rt 13. After approximately 4 miles, Rt 13 veers off to the right, but you should follow Rt 80 east. Continue on this road about 7 miles until the road again "T"s at Georgetown. Turn right onto Rt 26/80. After about 5 miles, turn left onto County Route 16. Follow this for about 10 miles. Do NOT turn left onto Rourke Road as indicated by many GPS systems--this takes you over a hazardous seasonal road. Stay on Rt 16 until after the large brown barn on your right (approximately two miles), turn left onto Hopkins Crandall Road. Our driveway is 2.2 miles on the right.
From Utica/Sherburne: Rt 12 south to Rt 80 west in Sherburne (right turn). In Smyrna, bear left at center of town. Go abt. .2 miles then right onto Coye Hill Rd (from this point on there are Wolf Mtn signs!). After about .2 miles turn left onto Beaver Meadow Rd and follow signs to Wolf Mountain (2.6 miles). Hopkins Crandall Rd is a left turn and driveway is on left about .1 mile.
From Binghamton/Norwich/Oneonta: Rt 12 north to Rt 23 west. Go 5.6 miles to Rt 16. Turn right onto Rt 16, go 2.8 miles. Turn right onto Hopkins Crandall Rd--we are 2.2 miles on the right.
Our driveway has been redone but is long, bumpy, and still steep -- you must have a 4-wheel drive vehicle during winter months!
(Motorcycles are welcome, but discouraged due to driveway conditions.)
Additional facilities: + plenty of free parking
+ restrooms
+ picnic area w/ hibachi grills (carry in - carry out your trash please)
+ gift shop (handicap accessible and heated in winter!)
+ classroom w/ kid friendly activities and video presentations
We are an outdoor nature center with an indoor (heated by woodstove in winter) classroom and gift shop. All of our power at the classroom, gift shop, and our log cabin home is generated 100% by solar and wind. Our paths around the animal enclosures are grassy, fairly level terrain. There are some short, gravel walkways leading to the classroom/gift shop area as well as a wheelchair accessible ramp. Benches are located periodically around the center's grounds for visitors to rest or to sit and enjoy watching the animals.
We are a smoke-free facility! Absolutely no smoking anywhere on center property!
Please NO PETS! While we absolutely love animals, pets (including service animals) are not permitted on center grounds under any circumstances--this includes in your car! Even if your pet makes no noise, our wolves will smell them and become extremely agitated. We maintain a sanctuary-like atmosphere and are committed to providing our animals with a stress-free environment. If you need assistance navigating the Center, one of our staff would be more than happy to accompany you. Thank you for your understanding and compliance.
For privately scheduled visits for groups of 20 or more (school/camp field trips, youth groups, scouts, etc.) we also offer:
+ solar and wind education
+ guided ecology hikes
+ winter snowshoeing (bring your own)
+ Native American Indian Tipi programs/storytelling
Call us to schedule your private visit/tour (for groups of twenty or more) @ 607-627-6784