I’ve been looking forward to this drive-thru wildlife adventure since I caught an episode where it was highlighted on Travel Channel’s – Trip Flip. We arrive around 2:30pm, after visiting Montezuma Castle, as the animals are more active either earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.

We killed a lot of bugs on the ~95 mile drive, so before entering we take a moment to clean the windows of the Mini.

We pay and are handed a brochure and rules of the drive. If you don’t read the rules, you’ll see signs like this to “Please Remain In Your Vehicle.”

We felt like we were entering Jurassic Park. Immediately greeted by Rocky Mountain Goats at the first gate!

Their thick, white coat camouflage them in snowy heights but also protect them from cold temperatures and biting winds in Alaska and the U.S. Rocky Mountains. These guys are surefooted climbers and can jump nearly 12 feet in a single bound.

I really enjoy their distinct beard!

Quick Factoids:

• Group = Herd
• Females = Nannies
• Young = Kids
• Males = Billies
• Average Lifespan: 9 – 12 years
• Weight: 100 – 300lbs

(Source: National Geographic)

I still want to see these Rocky Mountain Goats on the side of the road on a future Going-to-the-Sun Road adventure one day!

They’re usually found in the mountain ranges of Alaska and can live between 16-19 years although a 12 year old sheep is considered quite old. (Source: Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game)

First time I’ve ever seen an Abert’s Squirrel. Check out his big ears! They can be found anywhere where there are Ponderosa pine trees where they dine on its cones, buds and twigs as well as fungus and tree sap. (Source: NPS.gov)

150 acres of Bearizona, each area is divided by fences like this. Looks like this area could be a scene on a future Walking Dead episode.

A reminder of being safe… more signs that say, “Windows Up. Doors Locked.” I think we forgot about the last bit – “Move Along If Bear Approach.”

This guy walked away from his neighbors to find a quiet spot to sit up and enjoy alone time before he settled down for a nap.

3:00pm Bird Show still gives you time to go through the park again afterwards.

Harris Hawk

American Kestrel

European Eagle Owl

Barn Owl

Arctic Wolf – (Panda.org) also known as a polar wolf or white wolf. (Wolf.org) They live primarily in the Arctic, the region located above 67° North latitude.

• Food Habits: moose, reindeer, rabbits and other small mammals.
• Weighs: 50-175lbs.
• Length: 34-51in. (nose to tail)

View from the passenger side.

View from the back window.

Alaskan Tundra Wolf – (CosmoSmith.com) resides in the tundra regions along the Arctic coast of northern Alaska.

• Food Habits: deer, smaller animals and vegetation.
• Weighs: 80-176lbs.
• Length: 50-64in. (nose to tail)

• Montezuma Castle National Monument (Camp Verde, Arizona) - 2013