California Wolf Center

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Location: Julian (57 Miles / 1.25 Hours Northeast of Downtown San Diego)

Hours: 10AM and 2PM Shows on Saturdays by Reservation Only

Cost: $10 ($6 for Kids)

Features: Visit with a Denali Wolfpack; Learn about North American Gray Wolves.

California Wolf Center Highlights: This is a rare opportunity to visit with a pack of gray wolves up-close and in-person. The California Wolf Center is a non-profit research and conservation organization supporting the North American Gray Wolf. There are nearly three dozen wolves cared for at the California Wolf Center. They raise funds for their cause by providing outreach programs to the public. Sessions take place each Saturday and include a film about gray wolves and a visit with a Denali Wolf Pack living on the premise. Private Tours and School Tours are also provided at the facility. Programs last about 90 minutes. A gift shop is available to purchase books, shirts and other novelty items.

Food – You will find a full service restaurant at Lake Cuyamaca three miles to the south. There are also dozens of food options in Julian, four miles to the north. Note, Julian is famous for its Apple Pies, which is available in most restaurants and at several take-out windows.

Information on Visiting the California Wolf Center

Visitor Information/ Admission Cost – Read the recommendations and restrictions related to visiting the California Wolf Center. At the bottom of the page, you can sign up for an upcoming weekend show. The morning sessions are more expensive than the afternoon sessions because they include a commemorative photo of a grey wolf. (For Adults – $20 for Morning and $10 for Afternoon.)

Directions from Google Maps to the intersection of CA-79 and K Q Ranch Road in Julian, CA 92036. (Turn into the KQ Ranch Resort and look for the California Wolf Center signs on your right side. A volunteer will take you from the parking lot into the center.)

Traffic – Daytime travel to Julian is relatively easy. The Wolf Center is 4 miles south of the town of Julian, near Lake Cuyamaca. After leaving San Diego on highways, the last 30 – 45 minutes of your trip will take place on curvy and hilly two-lane roads. The roads are generally wide enough to make it a comfortable drive for most drivers, despite the winding roads that take you through the Cleveland National Forest and into the mountains. (You will climb to about 4,000 feet above sea level.) Traffic is a little slower during the busier months of September and October but it still moves along quite well. Also, keep an eye out for possible mountain snow in the forecast, when tire chains may be required to get into Julian.

Transit – There is no transit option that gets you into Julian.

Related Attractions – Learn more about the activities in Historic Julian.

Find More Attractions with Similar Themes or Location: Aquariums & Zoos, Julian |

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