Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
HYRUM, Cache County — A longtime winter tradition in Cache Valley is looking a little different this year as unusually warm temperatures are keeping the snow and the elk away from the Hardware Wildlife Management Area.
The popular sleigh rides, which typically take visitors through snowy meadows to see hundreds of elk, are still running. But without snow, the elk herd remains mostly in the hills.
"(It's) a great Christmas activity," said visitor Lexi Yorgason. "Our kids love horses and just being out in the wild. It was educational. Just (an) all around a great activity."
Wildlife managers say the elk usually come down when snow covers their natural food sources, prompting biologists to provide hay in the meadow. That helps the animals survive harsh winter conditions and keeps them from wandering into neighborhoods. But with mild weather, the herd has no reason to leave the hills.
"They were definitely here in force on Friday and Saturday," said Riley Haviland, who operates the rides under contract with the Division of Wildlife Resources. "Sunday, that storm came through, and it rained, and the wind blew, and what snow we did have melted away."
Biologists track some of the herd using GPS collars and can confirm the animals remain nearby. For now, visitors can still enjoy the rides, learn about elk management, and take in the scenery, while enjoying the benefit of not needing a thick winter jacket.
The sleigh rides have been a Cache Valley tradition for more than 60 years, though interruptions aren't new. Past seasons have been delayed by mud, drought, and even pandemic closures. Operators say they'll keep running tours and expect the elk to return once snow arrives.
