15 Fascinating Facts About Bearizona Wildlife Park
Just off Route 66, something wild is waiting. Bearizona Wildlife Park offers an unparalleled wildlife adventure that perfectly complements an Arizona road trip. This unique attraction is a must-visit for families and adventurers alike. It’s a sprawling haven where nature takes center stage. Here are 15 fascinating facts that show why Bearizona deserves a spot on your travel list.
A Wilderness Haven In Williams, Arizona
Bearizona Wildlife Park sits in Williams, between Prescott and Grand Canyon National Park. Opened in 2010, it spans 160 acres of high-altitude forest along historic Route 66. The cool, pine-covered setting mirrors the natural habitats of its resident wildlife. This creates a uniquely immersive outdoor experience.
Two Unique Ways To Experience Wildlife
Guests can explore Bearizona in two distinct ways: a 3-mile drive-through safari and a walkable area called Fort Bearizona. The safari lets visitors see animals like bison, foxes, wolves, and bears from their cars. Meanwhile, Fort Bearizona offers forested trails and educational exhibits, as well as naturalistic animal habitats.
Home To Over 150 Animals
Bearizona is home to over 150 animals across a wide range of species. Guests can encounter North American icons like elk and bobcats, as well as more exotic animals like African crested porcupines. Many of the animals are rescues or part of ongoing conservation efforts.
The Black Bear Legacy
Black bears are central to Bearizona’s identity, with more than 20 residing in the drive-through area. These native bears roam large, forested habitats and often entertain guests by climbing trees or lounging in ponds. Cubs born on-site are cared for in a public nursery space.
Go Beyond The Fence With VIP Access
Bearizona’s VIP tours let you get closer to the animals than most people ever do. Guests can watch a keeper feed a bear, observe training sessions, receive a private briefing from a park director on conservation activities, or listen in during a Keeper Chat. The otter encounter alone—featuring puzzle-solving and play—is worth the upgrade.
Fort Bearizona’s Naturalistic Zoo
Fort Bearizona, the walk-through section, is set among tall pines and designed to mimic natural animal environments. It includes habitats for porcupines and reptiles, plus interactive exhibits. Park-goers can also pan for gold in a themed area inspired by Arizona’s mining history.
Free-Roaming Peacocks And Turkeys
Colorful peacocks and wild turkeys wander freely through Fort Bearizona. The peacocks add to the park’s charm. Turkeys are mainly in the “Barnyard” petting zoo area. Allowing peacocks to roam freely in gardens and animal collections is a practice that dates back centuries.
Birds Of Prey Show
Bearizona’s live raptor show introduces guests to hawks and eagles in action. Experts demonstrate falconry and flight skills while discussing the importance of raptor conservation. The show includes birds like the red-tailed hawk, capable of high-speed dives and agile maneuvers.
A Commitment To Conservation
The park supports species preservation through breeding programs and public awareness. It focuses especially on endangered species like the Mexican gray wolf. Guests can contribute through the Shop 2 Give sponsorship program that helps fund food, shelter, and medical care for the animals.
A Family Story Behind Every Pawprint
It all began in 2010 as a passion project by two brothers, Sean and Dennis Casey. They dreamed of a place where animals could thrive naturally and visitors could get close to wildlife. Their hands-on care still guides the park, starting with one rescued bear and a bold vision.
Seasons Bring More Than Just Scenery
The park transforms with every season, offering special events that go beyond the usual wildlife experience. Winter ushers in Wild Wonderland, where festive lights sparkle along the drive-through, while summer adds after-hours tours under the stars. These limited-time experiences make each visit feel brand new. The synchronized holiday light display is a visitor favorite.
It’s Open Year-Round
It operates year-round with varying seasonal hours, and adult tickets start at $35. Individuals typically spend 3–4 hours exploring both the drive-through and walk-through areas. Military and senior discounts are available. You can even bring home a recycled bear plush from the gift shop.
Hop On The Wild Ride Bus
Bearizona’s Wild Ride Bus Tour offers a deeper look at the drive-through section. Knowledgeable guides narrate the journey, adding context to the animals you see and answering questions in real time. Riders enjoy better photo ops and access to restricted sections. It’s the insider’s way to experience the park.
Your Launchpad For The North
Bearizona sits at the crossroads of Arizona’s most scenic adventures. It’s a perfect stop on the way to the Grand Canyon, Sedona, or Slide Rock. Nearby, historic railroads and forested peaks create a rich backdrop, while the view of the San Francisco Peaks beautifully blends nature and geography into one stunning scene.
Themed Dining Experiences
Bearizona Wildlife Park features themed dining spots that bring Arizona’s natural beauty to your meal. For example, Canyonlands Restaurant surrounds you with murals of the region’s stunning landscapes, creating a dining experience that combines delicious food with a strong sense of place.
