Admission & Fees
A visit to Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is designed to be affordable and accessible for families, schools, and visitors from all over. Below is a simple breakdown of how admission and tour pricing works so you can plan your day on the prairie.
- Exact prices may vary by event or season. Always check the online ticket page for current rates.
General Access – Self-Guided Visits
Enjoy a quiet drive through the refuge and experience the prairie at your own pace.
The public road through the refuge is open for self-guided wildlife viewing during normal hours.
- No general entrance fee for basic drive-through visits.
- Remain in your vehicle when near bison or elk.
- Obey all posted signs and road closures.
Safety & Etiquette
For your safety and the protection of the animals:
- Do not approach or feed wildlife.
- Stay on designated roads and parking areas.
- Keep dogs and pets inside your vehicle.
- Pack out all trash and leave no trace.
- For hours and directions, see the Hours & Location page.
Ticket info
Guided Tram Tour Fees
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Adults (12 & up): $15.00
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Children (ages 4–11): $7.50
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Children age 3 & under: Free
Guided Experience
What’s Included
- Guided tram ride into the refuge interior.
- Opportunities to view bison, elk, and prairie habitat.
- Interpretive commentary from knowledgeable guides.
- Time for photos when it’s safe to stop.
Tip: Tours often sell out on busy weekends and during elk or fall color seasons. Booking in advance is strongly recommended.
Special & Seasonal Tours
Examples include:
- Elk viewing tours and bugling season experiences.
- Photography-focused tours with smaller group sizes.
- Holiday or themed prairie events.
These events may show ranges such as “Free – $7.50” or “Free – $15” depending on age and event type.
School & Group Reservations
Organized groups can often receive customized times and rates:
- Discounted per-person rates for school and youth groups.
- College and adult group pricing by headcount and tour length.
- Private or charter trams for churches, clubs, and organizations.
Contact us directly for current group rates and available dates. We recommend booking well ahead for spring and fall field trip seasons.
Reservations, Payment & Weather
A few practical details to help your visit run smoothly.
Tickets Online
How to Reserve & Pay
- Reservations are required for tram tours.
- Most tours can be booked online from the Tickets & Hours or Tours & Events pages.
- Payment methods and fees are shown during checkout.
Planning for a larger group?
Please call or email so we can help you choose the best date, time, and tour type.
Kansas Skies
Weather, Cancellations & Refunds
- Tours may be delayed, rescheduled, or cancelled in severe weather or unsafe conditions.
- If the refuge cancels a tour, guests are typically offered a reschedule or refund.
Weather can change quickly on the prairie. Dressing in layers and bringing a jacket is always a good idea.
Weather can change quickly on the prairie. Dressing in layers and bringing a jacket is always a good idea.
Your Visit Helps Protect the Prairie
Every ticket purchased helps care for the bison and elk herds, maintain the tram and facilities, and support education programs that share the story of the prairie with future generations.