Elephant Trek

Client: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Project Location: Cincinnati, OH

Completed: Five phase project completed in 2025

Certification:

LEED Platinum

 
 

The Harry and Linda Fath Elephant Trek is a pioneering exhibit that integrates immersive architectural design, premier horticulture, innovative visitor engagement, and dynamic animal enrichment experiences. Spanning five acres, this world-class environment provides exceptional care for the Zoo’s growing Asian elephant herd, while also offering engaging and educational experiences for guests of all ages. In addition to the elephants, the exhibit features a rich diversity of cohabitating species, including Siamangs, Asian Small-Clawed Otters, Hornbills, and Pheasants. Set within Cincinnati’s urban Avondale neighborhood, the project creates a lush, serene oasis that feels worlds away from its metropolitan surroundings.

Major elements of the Elephant Trek Habitat include:

  • Elephant Holding Building and Elephant Yard - Features a 26,000 s.f. Elephant Barn with an integrated Event Venue that overlooks the 220,000 gallon pool and habitat yard as well as the interior care quarters of the Elephants. The site for the Elephants is a 3 acre Elephant Habitat with Varied Enrichment Experiences

  • Picnic Pavilion Area - (2) Open Air Picnic Shelters and (1) Enclosed Picnic Shelter Open for Guests and Special Events

  • Asian Garden - Featured Horticulture Garden and Waterfall Wall

  • Entry Garden and Stream - Viewing Shelters and an Entry Garden Path

  • Siamang Habitat - Overhead Animal access with a Netted Siamang Viewing Enclosure.

  • Small Clawed Otter - Features a 10,000 gallon pool with underwater viewing and Land viewing.

 
 
 
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