International Wolf Center
There are few things more magical and haunting than hearing wolves howl during a dark Ely night. Encountering these incredible animals in the wilderness is a rare and incredibly special experience. But you and your family can see them up close and personal at the International Wolf Center.
Dedicated to preserving wolf populations and habitats, the International Wolf Center aims to educate the public about these magnificent animals that may well be the most misunderstood predator in North America.
The Wolf Center's Exhibit Pack varies as wolves age and new wolf pups are socialized. Today, you can see Grayson and Axel, two breathtakingly beautiful, stark white, Arctic gray wolves that were born on May 2, 2016. Their bright, yellow eyes will enthrall you.
These ambassador wolves are the linchpin of the center's mission by reinforcing its educational messages and creating a connection with everyone who is lucky enough to see them as they play, eat, sleep and tussle with each other. Several times daily, our staff naturalists will introduce the pack through captivating programs for children and adults.
In keeping with the center's main mission of education, it hosts school groups, gives webinars and lectures, and hosts the International Wolf Symposium.
In the Discover Wolves exhibit, you will learn how wolves were important to various cultures over time. You will learn about radio telemetry when you take a seat in a simulated airplane cockpit, push a button and take off on a pack-tracking mission over a frozen lake. You can also explore a field exam station where young and old alike can learn how — and why — these field exams are done. These are just a few of the features of our new exhibit.
For the more adventurous, field trips deep into wolf country will help you discover your wild side. You'll howl to wild packs, get firsthand experience with wolf research techniques and learn about other wildlife species.
Cap off your adventure with a stop at the Wolf Den Store. The many wolf gifts will remind you of your wonderful visit to wolf country.