The rides last from 20 to 30 minutes. They wind through the center of the elk herd and make occasional stops for photographs.

During the rides, drivers share the history of the ranch and explain why the elk behave like they do.

In addition to the sleigh rides, the ranch also operates a visitors center. The center has interactive wildlife displays and staff who can answer questions.

Rides will run through March 17. The ranch is open Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The cost is $5 for those 9 and older, and $3 for those 4 to 8.

The ranch is located 17 miles east of Hyrum at mile marker 22 on SR-101 in Blacksmith Fork Canyon and is about 115 miles north of Salt Lake City.

For information call 435-753-6206 or visit www.hardwareranch.com.

VOLUNTEER AWARD

Jack Rensel, a volunteer with the Ogden Nature Center, is the recipient of the 2007 Wasatch Outdoor Volunteer Award presented by REI.

This award was created to draw attention to the crucial role of volunteers.

Rensel, a retired wildlife biologist with the Division of Wildlife Resources, is past chairman of the center's board of directors and has helped guide at the center for more than 30 years.

He is also actively involved with land management and is responsible for much of the restoration work on center's property.