HYRUM — A cherished winter tradition is back! Starting Dec. 6, visitors can bundle up and take a horse-drawn sleigh or wagon ride through the midst of hundreds of wild elk at the Hardware Wildlife Management Area. The season runs until Feb. 9 and offers unforgettable experiences, including new family-friendly activities.

Horse-drawn sleigh and wagon rides

Haviland’s Old West Adventures will provide horse-drawn sleigh or wagon rides through the elk herds on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Each ride lasts approximately 45 minutes and offers an up-close view of the majestic animals in their natural habitat.

Ticket prices:

• Ages 9 and older: $10
• Ages 4-8: $4
• Ages 3 and under: Free
• Tickets must be purchased in person at the Hardware Wildlife Education Center on the day of your ride. The center closes at 4 p.m., so be sure to buy tickets early.
• Groups of 25 or more can schedule private rides on Wednesday afternoons by calling 435-744-3229.

Santa’s Workshop: A new holiday treat

This year, “Santa’s Workshop” will add extra holiday cheer on Dec. 7, 14, and 21. Participants can enjoy a waffle breakfast or lunch with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, create holiday ornaments, and take a sleigh ride through the elk herd.

Cost:

• Ages 3 and older: $40
• Ages 2 and under: Free
• Reservations for Santa’s Workshop can be made by calling 480-540-3499.

Education and Family Fun at the WMA

Visitors can warm up in the Hardware Wildlife Education Center and explore the “All About Elk” exhibit, which is open throughout the season. Free, interactive family activities will be held at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Director Marni Lee highlights the popular December activity: creating habitat ornaments using sagebrush, bitterbrush, and other local plants. “It’s a fun way to learn about the environment and create something meaningful,” Lee said.

Why the Season Ends Early

To prevent the potential spread of brucellosis–a disease that affects elk, bison, and cattle–the WMA ends viewing and feeding season in early February. By dispersing elk before their highest-risk period for spreading the disease (February through June), the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources hopes to reduce the chance of outbreaks in local elk populations.

Plan Your Visit

Hardware WMA is located 16 miles east of Hyrum on state Route 101. The scenic drive through Blacksmith Fork Canyon sets the stage for a magical day with wildlife.

For more information, visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website, call 435-753-6206, or email Marni Lee at marnilee@utah.gov.

Don’t miss your chance to experience this one-of-a-kind winter adventure!