Two state parks in eastern Kentucky will offer guests a unique wildlife viewing opportunity this fall and winter – elk viewing tours.
Visitors to Jenny Wiley and Buckhorn Lake State Resort Parks can choose a weekend and stay at a state park lodge or cottage to enjoy one of these unique tours.
Participants should bring their cameras – there should be great photography opportunities. The largest elk herds are located on privately owned lands that are normally closed to the public. This is one of the few opportunities available for the public to see the greatest number of elk.
The return of elk to the region is considered to be one of Kentucky’s biggest wildlife management success stories. The animals, after being gone from the state for 150 years, were returned in 1997. They now number around 10,000.
Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn, KY
Fall 2015 dates:
- Sept. 26, 27;
- Oct. 17, 18, 24, 25;
- Nov. 7, 8.
Winter 2016 dates:
- March 5, 12, 19, 26.
Enjoy seeing these majestic animals in their natural habitat. With sightings recorded on every tour over the last several years, guided elk viewing adventures have proven to be memorable wildlife viewing experiences. Participants must register by calling Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park at 800-325-0058. Participation in the natural history program the evening prior to the trip at 7 p.m. is strongly recommended. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, camera, water and snacks.
The tour van leaves the park between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. depending on the date, and usually returns to the park around 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Package price of $120 per couple ($90 per single) includes one night’s lodging, continental breakfast and transportation to and from the elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $50. The cost for the tour only can be arranged.
Viewings are also taking place at Jenny Wiley !
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg, KY
Fall 2015 dates:
- Sept. 19, 20, 26, 27;
- Oct. 17, 18, 24, 25, 31;
- Nov. 7, 28;
- Dec. 5.
Winter 2016 dates:
- Jan. 16, 23, 24, 30, 31;
- Feb. 6, 13, 20, 7;
- March 5, 12.
For more information or to make reservations call 1-800-325-005 or visit parks.ky.gov
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