Hogle Zoo just outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, is located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon. Long before a roadway curved up the canyon, Emigration Canyon was the chosen route for pioneer travelers, Pony Express, transcontinental telegraph, and various stage coach lines. Most notably, Brigham Young and his Mormon Pioneer Company descended Emigration Canyon in 1847 to culminate their great westward trek in the Great Salt Lake Valley.
Today, the area is one of the most popular places for locals and visitors alike, with its scenic views, hiking trails, and of course, the zoo. Spread out over 42 acres, the natural hillside and tree-covered pathways allow visitors to explore the wonders of the natural world. There are hundreds of species to discover, including the Elephant Encounter, a Himalayan village that features five endangered species of Asian cats, the Great Apes exhibit, the Primate House and more.
A couple of the most popular attractions are the Giraffe and Rainforest Feedings. Guests can discover what it is like to feed the world’s tallest animal. Did you know that a giraffe’s tongue can reach up to 20 inches in length? And for bird lovers, the Rainforest Feedings will be a dream come true. Guests will go behind the scenes with the zookeepers as they prepare breakfast for the animals in the Rainforest and then help place the food throughout the habitat, as well as help with a head count.
Rocky Shores is one of the newest exhibits and features a multi-animal habitat where bears, sea lions, seals and otters live and play. You will see up-close, underwater viewing of the animals as they swim through crystal blue water, as well as unprecedented views from ground level in a habitat depicting the physical, cultural and social landscape of the western shores of North America.
The Hogle Zoo regularly posts new videos on YouTube at The Official Hogle Zoo YouTube Channel, but here the video that showcases Rocky Shores.
Don’t feel like walking? The zoo train loops around the east end of the Zoo and past a few of the Zoo’s residents all of which can be seen up close from the train. And there are plenty of places to grab everything from a snack or treat to a full meal. Plus the gift shop has plenty of books and souvenirs to take home with you.
Utah’s Hogle Zoo
2600 Sunnyside Avenue (840 South)
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
General number: (801) 582-1631
Events Hotline: (801) 584-1750
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