Backyard Tourist: Hogle Zoo

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Over Memorial Day Weekend we decided to head out to the Zoo – Hogle Zoo to be precise. Located at the base of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City, it spans 42 acres and contains over 800 animals. Although pricey, we truly enjoy making it here at least once each year. The kids especially love seeing all the animals.

Sadly, we went on a day it decided to rain, but it did mean less people crowding around the glass and fences – so it was one of those give/take moments. Our first stop was in the gift shop for some umbrellas since we forgot to bring ours, and then to pick up a covered double stroller. We were planning on renting a red wagon, but they don’t have umbrellas.

Our first stop on the way in, were the Elephants. We arrived just as mom and baby were coming out. They walked around for a little,but quickly returned inside. I’m guessing they didn’t care much for the rain either. In 2009 Hogle Zoo had their first African Elephant born to momma Christie – Zuri.

I love the Elephants, but we decided to continue on when they went inside. So off we went to the monkey house. My pictures here didn’t turn out too well, I think a setting was changed on the camera – but there are a good number of primates hanging in branches and jumping around in here.

After leaving the monkey house, we found ourselves facing a pretty fun looking kid area – perfect for an early break. With a lighthouse slide, wrecked ship, and wading pools, there’s plenty for the kids to have fun with. When it’s not raining, I’m told there is a spout that will also spray water periodically – so on those hot days you visit, you can cool down.

We had to cut the kids time there short when the need for a restroom arose. Thankfully a quick consult on the map, and we found 2 restrooms within a quick walk. We possibly missed an animal or two on our way, but we made it. After that pitstop we decided to hang out with the harbor seals. I think they are my personal favorite to watch as they glide through the water.

We of course couldn’t help ourselves when it came to the Apes. I mean really now, you’ve got to see just how far you can puff your cheeks out when standing next to this bust.

And you know you’ve got to make some grunt a bit when comparing your height and arm length to that of a Male Gorilla!

It was interesting as I read up on Hogle Zoo, to see all the information they provide about the animals. You can learn quite a bit just from their website. They go further though and encourage you to get involved, to help animals in the wild, and really learn what is happening to the different species.

For example, Gorilla’s biggest threat is Bush Meat – meat that villagers hunt for their families to live. By educating us, we get to learn more and do our part to help sustain the animals around the globe. Pretty cool huh?

Finally the zoo is not complete until you’ve ridden the Conservation Carousel featuring 42 hand carved animals. A great place to regroup, let the kids be kids for a minute, and take a break for your feet.