Observe wolves up close and in their own environment just a short drive from the SouthCoast.

Ipswich, Massachusetts, is home to the only wolf sanctuary in Southern New England and actually allows you to observe North American gray wolves at close range.

Wolf Hollow, also known as the North American Wolf Foundation, is a one-of-a-kind sanctuary in the Bay State. Tours must be booked for your visit and are geared toward anyone over the age of 5.

Sounds like a super-cool nature adventure for the kids, who will get to see actual wild wolves interacting with their pack right in front of their eyes. For my little "Wild Kratts" fans, this is like an episode of their favorite PBS show coming to life.

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In addition to the cool factor of this sanctuary is the importance of it as well. North American gray wolves are a threatened species as more residential neighborhoods get built on their homes and hunting territories. Wolf Hollow allows these beautiful animals space to roam and a pack to call their own, something not every wild wolf has these days.

The non-profit organization not only lets you get up close with their wolves, they teach you so much about them as well. From the biology of a wolf and their relationship to domestic dogs to the hierarchy of a pack, you'll come away from your trip with more wolf facts than you might think possible.

Presumably, you'll come away with some amazing pictures, too. If the photos from the Wolf Hollow site are any indication, these rescued wolves are stunning and will have you snapping away on your visit.

The sanctuary is open all year round too, so even catching wolves in winter is an option. Though these sunny, spring days we're seeing right now sound perfect for a walk with the wolves.

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