This Hidden Sanctuary In Pennsylvania Is Home To The Only Gray Wolves In Pennsylvania
By Beth Price-Williams|Published June 09, 2022
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Animal lovers have no shortage of unique destinations strewn across the state, but Wolf Sanctuary in Pennsylvania might earn props as the rarest. Home to dozens of gray wolves and wolf-dogs, the sanctuary welcomes guests for tours, and it’s the only way you’ll see wild wolves in the state. If you’ve not been to this one-of-a-kind sanctuary, you’ll definitely want to add it to the top of your Pennsylvania bucket list.
Wild wolves haven’t roamed the Pennsylvania landscape since the late 1800s, and the state has no intention of reintroducing the animals – for both the wolves' and humans’ safety.
Because there is not enough room for wolves to freely wander, without mingling with humans, in the state, officials at the state level have repeatedly stated that there are no plans to reintroduce them. Doing so could put both the wolves and humans in danger.
However, you can get an up-close look at both gray wolves and wolf-dogs at Wolf Sanctuary of PA in Lititz, an organization that provides a safe haven and a forever home for the animals.
Tucked on 80 acres, the sanctuary was founded and is still run by the Darlington family. The only way to experience Wolf Sanctuary of PA is to reserve a spot on a guided tour.
If you plan to go on a tour, dress appropriately, and wear comfy, sturdy shoes. You’ll travel along a path that features a mix of terrain, including natural rocks and dirt. Be prepared, too, to climb at least one hill that’s what the sanctuary describes as “moderately steep.”
Guided public tours are offered on select days and last between an hour and 1.5 hours. A seasoned tour guide will provide insight into the lives of the residents, the history of the sanctuary, and will answer any questions.
Private tours are also available and last two hours. If you’re a photographer, sign up for a professional photography session to photograph the wolves. A guide will lead you through the sanctuary.
Finally, for a one-of-a-kind experience, join one of the Full Moon Fundraisers, which are only for those 16 and older. The event includes a moonlit tour, a bonfire, and live entertainment.
Have you been to Wolf Sanctuary in Pennsylvania? Share your experience in the comments! For another one-of-a-kind animal experience in Pennsylvania, head to Lancaster Farm Sanctuary.
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