Visit the Wolf Sanctuary of PA
January 8, 2022
Visit the Wolf Sanctuary of PA
Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, this wolf sanctuary of Lancaster sits quietly on more than 80-acres of untouched woodland.
This Blog is all about the Wolf Sanctuary of PA
About the PA Wolf Sanctuary
Here, deep in the woods of Lancaster PA, you’ll find the Wolves of Speedwell. Their nickname comes from fact that the sanctuary is located on Speedwell Forge Road in Lititz PA.
The Darlington family have been loving caretakers of the wolfs for more than 40-years. They have gray wolves and wolf-dogs. The original vision for the wolf sanctuary was a private rescue for wolves but over time, the Wolf Sanctuary of PA became an educational facility in its own right. The Darlington family continues to offer quality care and dignified lives to the wolves that find their ways to this wolf sanctuary.
Tour the Wolf Sanctuary of PA
The wolf sanctuary in Pennsylvania requires all visitors make a reservation prior to their visit. You’ll find new tour dates and times posted at the start of each month on their website. Overall, there are four different types of wolf tours: guided public wolf tours, full moon fundraisers, private wolf tours, and wolf photography sessions but please note that the wolf photo shoots are for professional photographers and require approval.
Below are more details on the wolf tours but please double-check the Wolf Sanctuary of PA website for all dates, times, and cost as we imagine these are subject to change. You’ll also need to visit the wolf sanctuary website to purchase tickets before your visit.
Guided Public Wolf Tours:
These wolf tours cost $13-$15 and run most Tuesdays and Thursdays year-round. Saturdays and Sundays have varying hours based on the season. This is a 1 to 1.5 hour tour where a guide walks you around the wolf sanctuary and stops to introduce you to each pack of wolves, provides interesting facts about wolf biology, and tells you more about wolf conservation.
Full Moon Fundraisers:
This wolf tour or event features a bonfire (weather permitting), live entertainment and guided tours. The guides also provide information on the wolves, as well as interesting facts about wolf biology, and wolf conservation. Bring your own blanket, flashlight, chair, and a sense of adventure. The full moon fundraiser spans 2.5-hours. No children are allowed at this event. Only adults 16 and older with proof of age may attend. The cost is $35 per person. Check in is usually around 7 pm and the event ends at 10 pm.
Private Wolf Tours in Lancaster PA:
This is a private tour of the PA Wolf Sanctuary. It offers an opportunity for you and your group to walk through the sanctuary at your own pace with a guide. While designed for small groups, larger groups can arrange private tours with some advance notice. The private wolf tour lasts 2-hours. Bookings are available most Saturdays and Sundays at a cost of $45/person.
Wolf Photography Sessions:
This is more of a session than a tour. The session allows professional photographers to have more time photographing the wolves using longer lenses and other professional equipment. The access to the wolves remains the same as it is during the other tours. While a guide will accompany you and offer their knowledge on the wolves, suggest the best viewpoints, and more, the session is not informational. You can use tripods and long lenses, but no video, props, models, and staging allowed. To partake in a professional wolf photo session, you’ll have to submit a request on the sanctuary website. These sessions last a minimum of 30-minutes (and up to 2-hours) and the timing varies by season. They mostly take place Mondays through Thursdays for $50/person.
Things to Know Before You Go to the Wolf Sanctuary of PA
- Face masks are encouraged outdoors are required indoors.
- Tours are outdoors and you’ll walk on rock, grass, dirt, even mud, so bring good walking shoes.
- Wolf tours take place despite rain, snow or shine. Please dress appropriately.
- Due to COVID19 guidelines, no beverages or snacks will be available onsite. Please bring water or a non-alcoholic beverage to stay hydrated, especially in the summer months. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted at any time.
- Pets are not allowed on the property.
- Photography lenses must less be than 5 inches in length.
- Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are not permitted. Video recording is not permitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to go to the Wolf Sanctuary?
General admission ranges between $13-$15 for the Wolf Sanctuary PA in Lititz. - When is the best time to visit the Lititz Wolf Sanctuary?
Fall and winter are the best times to visit the sanctuary when the wolves are playful. In the warmer months the wolves can be less energized as their fur can make them feel hot. - What should I wear to the wolf sanctuary in PA?
Wear comfy, non-slip, sneakers or boots as you’ll be walking on rock, grass, dirt, and possibly mud. Dress for the weather as a large portion of your visit will be outdoors – rain or shine! - Can children tour the Wolf Sanctuary in Lititz?
Children may tour, although the wolf tours may not be appropriate for children under the age 5 because of the length of the tour and nature of the terrain. That said, the only age-restricted tour is the Full Moon Fundraiser, where visitors must be 16 or older to attend. - Can I touch the wolves?
No. There is no direct interaction between visitors and the wolves at the PA sanctuary to comply with state laws, insurance requirements, and the sanctuary’s mission and goals. All visitors will see the wolves from behind and through 1 to 2 sets of fencing, with 3×3 to 3×6 inch wide gaps. - Can I take photos and videos of the wolves?
Photos are permitted but video is not allowed. All photo lenses must be less than 5 inches in length for all tours, except for the professional wolf photography sessions where exceptions are made. Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited. - Are there wild wolves in PA?
While there haven’t been any wild wolves in Pennsylvania for more than hundred years, the Wolf Sanctuary PA offers natural habitat for its well-cared for resident wolves.
What else is near the Wolf Sanctuary in PA?
- Horse-Shoe Trail: This 140-mile trail was created for hikers and horseback riders. It starts in Valley Forge National Historical Park and ends at the Appalachian Trail.
- The Pretzel Hut: This casual dining spot serves sandwiches, burgers, and several must-taste soft pretzels in cool flavors like Jalapeño and Bacon Cheddar Ranch – with a side of fun! Come sit, stay, and pet the animals. The onsite petting farm is free and open to all. New ice cream flavors re announced each Wednesday on social media.
- Lititz Springs Park: This park is beautiful year-round and stunning come summer. Its centerpiece is a stone waterway that nearly spans the entire length of the park, with paved walking paths on both sides. Summer brings outdoor concerts, concessions stands, and lots of children who come to feed and watch the many swimming ducks.
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We hope this helps you on your way to the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Let us know your favorite part of the trip!
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