In the heart of Farmington, Utah, Lagoon Amusement Park has been a cornerstone of entertainment for over a century. Established in 1886, it has evolved from a simple resort to a bustling amusement destination, drawing visitors from all walks of life. Among its myriad attractions, the Wild Kingdom Train Ride and accompanying zoo, introduced in 1967, offered guests a glimpse into the world of exotic animals, including majestic big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards.​

The Roar of the Past

For decades, families would embark on the Wild Kingdom Train, winding through enclosures that housed these magnificent creatures. Children's eyes would widen in awe as they spotted a lion lounging under the sun or a tiger pacing gracefully. These experiences, while enchanting, were set against the backdrop of evolving perceptions about animal welfare and the ethics of captivity.​

Voices for the Voiceless

Over the years, concerns grew regarding the living conditions of the animals at Lagoon. Animal rights organizations, including the Utah Animal Rights Coalition (UARC) Big Cat Rescue (BCR) and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), voiced apprehensions about the adequacy of the enclosures and the overall well-being of the animals. Incidents, such as the 2018 altercation between a bison and a newly introduced elk resulting in the elk's euthanization, intensified these concerns. Activists organized protests, petitions, and campaigns advocating for the relocation of the animals to more suitable habitats.​

A Transformative Decision

In a landmark move, Lagoon Amusement Park announced in March 2025 its decision to phase out its zoo operations. This decision was underscored by the relocation of six big cats to The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado, in December 2024. The transferred animals included:​

• Denahi, a 15-year-old male African lion.

• Athena, a female white Bengal tiger.

• Edwina and Pru, black leopards aged 14.

• Oliver, a 10-year-old male cougar.

• Phoebe, an 11-year-old cougar.

These animals, some reaching the twilight of their lifespans, now reside in expansive habitats spanning thousands of acres, a stark contrast to their previous enclosures. ​

A Sanctuary of Hope

The Wild Animal Sanctuary offers these big cats a life closer to their natural existence. With vast terrains to explore, they can engage in instinctual behaviors, from stalking to resting under the open sky. For many, it's a taste of freedom they had long been deprived of. Alex Wilde, a campaigner with UARC, remarked, "For the first time in years—perhaps ever—these big cats will be able to engage in their natural instinctual behaviors and live a life where their home is measured in square acres, not square feet." ​

Lagoon's Vision Forward

While some speculate that the decision was influenced by activist pressures, Lagoon's spokesperson, Adam Leishman, emphasized that the closure aligns with the park's future expansion plans. He stated, "The plan is to phase out the remainder of the exhibits through this year." This shift allows Lagoon to introduce new attractions and experiences for its guests, reflecting a broader industry trend of moving away from live animal exhibits towards more sustainable entertainment options.

A Call to Action

The story of Lagoon's big cats serves as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility towards wildlife conservation. While these animals have found refuge, countless others remain in less than ideal conditions. Here's how you can make a difference:

• Support Reputable Sanctuaries: Consider donating to accredited wildlife sanctuaries which provide safe havens for rescued big cats and work tirelessly towards ending abusive practices.

• Educate and Advocate: Raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats and the ethical considerations of wildlife captivity. Engage in conversations, share information, and support policies that protect wildlife.

• Responsible Tourism: When visiting attractions featuring animals, research their practices to ensure they prioritize animal welfare. Opt for sanctuaries and reserves that offer ethical and educational wildlife experiences.

Embracing a Compassionate Future

Lagoon's transition marks a significant step towards more humane treatment of captive animals. As global citizens, we must recognize the intrinsic value wild cats and other wildlife bring to our planet's health. Their presence maintains ecological balance, supports biodiversity, and enriches our natural world. By supporting conservation efforts and making informed choices, we contribute to a future where all creatures can thrive in environments that honor their innate behaviors and needs.

Learn more: https://www.ksl.com/article/51269509/lagoon-is-phasing-out-its-zoo-has-already-relocated-big-cats