Adventure brief
General Admission
Get hands-on with reptiles at Scales and Tails Utah! Enjoy a 60-minute guided tour where you can pet, hold, and even feed tortoises and bearded dragons. Perfect for nature lovers of all ages.
Discover an unforgettable wildlife adventure with the General Admission experience at Scales and Tails Utah in Kearns. This 60-minute guided tour invites guests to interact closely with a fascinating variety of reptiles, including tortoises and bearded dragons. Perfect for families, reptile enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike, the tour offers hands-on opportunities to pet and hold these incredible creatures, capturing memorable photos along the way.
Enhance your visit by adding an optional feeding session where you can feed tortoises or bearded dragons under expert supervision. Located just outside Salt Lake City, this self-guided wildlife attraction provides an affordable and educational experience that highlights the unique behaviors and habitats of reptiles. The knowledgeable guides ensure a safe and engaging time for all ages.
Whether you're seeking to learn more about environmental conservation or simply enjoy a fun, interactive outing, Scales and Tails Utah makes it easy to connect with nature’s coolest reptiles in a relaxed setting.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Handle Reptiles Gentlyessential
Always follow guide instructions when holding or petting reptiles to keep both you and the animals safe.
- 02Book Early for Feeding Sessionsinfo
Feeding sessions are popular and may require advance booking—plan ahead to secure your spot.
- 03Wear Comfortable Clothinginfo
Opt for light, breathable fabrics as the facility maintains warm temperatures suitable for reptiles.
- 04Bring a Camerawarning
You'll want to capture your experience, but be mindful of flash photography which may disturb the animals.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Closed-Toe Shoes
Provides protection and comfort while exploring the facility.
EssentialLightweight Long Sleeve Shirt
Helps protect arms when handling reptiles while keeping cool.
springPortable Camera or Smartphone
Capture your experience and memorable reptile interactions.
EssentialReusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months around the attraction.
summerLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Union Pacific Rail Trail for easy walking nearby, Clark Planetarium in Salt Lake City for interactive science exhibits
Local fauna
Western Painted Turtle, Common Garter Snake
Historic heritage
Kearns was established as a residential community for railway workers in the early 20th century, shaping its local culture.
Mindful exploration
Scales and Tails Utah emphasizes education on reptile care and habitat preservation, supporting wildlife conservation efforts locally.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- inside reptile enclosures for close-ups, feeding demonstration areas, entrance feature displays
- Subjects
- reptiles in naturalistic habitats, interactive guest moments, feeding sessions
- Best times
- midday for even lighting, morning light, late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are children allowed on the guided reptile tour?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome and supervised interaction ensures a safe experience.
Can I feed the reptiles during my visit?
Feeding sessions with tortoises or bearded dragons can be added to your tour with prior booking.
Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Scales and Tails Utah is fully accessible to visitors with mobility aids.
Are pets allowed at the facility?
For the safety of the animals and guests, outside pets are not permitted.
How long is the guided tour?
The standard guided tour lasts approximately 60 minutes.
Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Reservations are recommended, especially for feeding sessions and weekends, to guarantee availability.