Headed to Colorado? If you are visiting Denver, the kicked-back town of Colorado Springs is just a couple hours away to the south.

A trip to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs offers something of interest for everyone in the family. Founded in 1926, the zoological society was later incorporated into a recognized nonprofit.

The location is nothing less than spectacular, on the side of Cheyenne Mountain with a staggering view of the city of Colorado Springs and the easter plains.

The elephants are always a favorite of zoo attendees. You can watch Lucky, Kimba, and Maliaka play in the water or with their plastic barrels. Did you know two sisters live at the Cheyenne Zoo? Yes, they are hippos (Nile Hippos) named Kasai and Zambezi. Studying the zoo animals in advance of your trip will make them seem like old friends once you arrive.

If you want a good sporting and outdoor hike at the zoo, it is easily available. Since the zoo is built on the side of the mountain, you can hike up for exercise. The only hiking equipment you will need is a sturdy pair of comfortable shoes. If you prefer, there is a zoomobile available to take you to the highest part of the zoo, and then you can walk down. Keep in mind that you will be visiting the Rocky Mountains where the air is thin. Stay hydrated, and if you begin to feel light headed, sit on a bench until your brain can gather a bit more oxygen in that thin air.

Another thing to remember when visiting the zoo is that the weather may be variable. Even if you begin your zoo trip in warm and sunny weather, bring along light jackets for everyone (even the stubborn teens who say, “I’m fine. I don’t need one.”) Sturdy shoes are also a must.

Besides giraffes and tons of other animals, you will be surprised that a trip to the zoo includes an unusual bonus. Each admission ticket also includes access to the historic Will Rogers shrine. It is located 1.4 miles further up the mountain by car (I suppose you could walk, but keep in mind you’d be going vertically uphill at a good grade). Citizen Spencer Penrose commissioned the monument to honor famous celebrity of the day Will Rogers who perished in an aircraft disaster in the year 1935. The altitude of the shrine is a lofty 8,136 feet above sea level.

Our experiences with family are a great thing at a great value. You will not regret visiting this destination and enjoying memorable moments of family time together.