Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary is the secret of west New Mexico - many locals are still unaware that we exist! It is well-worth the drive, and we encourage everyone to come out and see us.
The Sanctuary is open all year round expect for Mondays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. There is never a bad time to come visit!
Please remember that currently, the Sanctuary does not allow guests to walk around unescorted, so you must join a guided tour to see the animals.
Directions
From Albuquerque
Take I-40 to Grants, take Exit 81, turn left onto Hwy 53, go about 50 miles. About 2 miles past El Morro, look for a sign for Mountainview & Pine Hill, turn left onto BIA 125, go 8 miles. Turn right onto gravel road BIA 120. Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary is 4 miles down on the left.
From Gallup
Take Hwy 602 South, stay on 602 to intersection for Hwy 53. Turn left. Go through Ramah, then 10 more miles to BIA 125. Turn right, go 8 miles (through Mountainview). Turn right onto gravel road BIA 120. Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary is 4 miles down on the left.
Coming to visit the Sanctuary? Think about bringing something from our Wish List - the wolves would greatly appreciate it!
Area Attractions
The drive to the Sanctuary down Highway 53 is gorgeous with many interesting sights to see. For serious hikers, nothing beats exploring El Malpais National Monument's lava tube caves or scenic ridges. During summer, swing by El Malpais on your way home to see the bats leave the caves at dusk. For more casual exploration, be sure to stop at El Morro National Monument which offers two different trails. The Inscription trail is paved, 1/2 mile in length, and takes you to see the pool and past hundreds of Spanish and Anglo inscriptions, as well as pre-historical petroglyphs. The Headland trail is a 2-mile loop which includes the Inscription Trail and continues to the top of the bluff where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Zuni Mountains, volcanic craters, and El Morro valley, as well as the Atsinna Ancestral Puebloan ruin. Nature enthusiasts might also want to trek down into the Ice Cave or climb up Bandera Volcano. To fully experience New Mexico culture, the Zuni Pueblo is a must-see stop as visitors can explore historic buildings, museums, and crafts. When you get hungry, stop by the Ancient Way Cafe for delicious home-cooked American, New Mexican, and Vegetarian specialties or check out the Ramah Cafe for a meal that will fill you up!
For help in planning your New Mexico vacation, please visit the New Mexico Tourism Department.