Planning for the Future.

The Zoo's Master Plan, originally created in 1989, allows us to make changes and improvements by replacing deteriorating exhibits and buildings and improving visitor accessibility, convenience and safety. Over the past two decades, more than $30 million has been raised from community individuals, foundations and corporations and invested to replace or repair outdated Zoo facilities and exhibits.

Improvements made at the Zoo include: Asian Highlands (1996), Lions Lair (1997), My Big Backyard (2001), African Rift Valley (2003) and most recently Rocky Mountain Wild (2008). With the completion of Rocky Mountain Wild nearly 30% of the Zoo remains over 40 years old.

The next phase in the Zoo's master plan is to renovate the elephant area. The Zoo anticipates the elephant holding building will be complete in 2011 and the entire new elephant exhibit will be open in spring 2012. Renovations at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo are guided by the Zoo's desire to affect people's relationship with the environment. By transforming the visitor experience from a passive viewer to an active participant, the Zoo strives to encourage an appreciation and respect for the dignity and intrinsic value of all living things.