Northwest Trek Wildlife Park has received the Significant Achievement Facility Award from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for its Discovery Tram Tour Station, a project recognized for excellence in facility design and construction that advances the mission of accredited zoos and aquariums.

Presented at the 2025 AZA Annual Conference in mid-September, the award honors transformative non-exhibit projects that elevate operations, enhance guest experience, and promote sustainability. The Discovery Tram Tour Station was celebrated for its innovative approach to accessibility, environmental stewardship, and immersive visitor engagement.

“Congratulations to the team at Northwest Trek for their hard work and dedication in achieving this remarkable recognition,” said Dan Ashe, president and CEO at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. “This award recognizes the best of the best in the global aquarium and zoo community. The work being done at Northwest Trek further strengthens the impact of our entire community and is something the Puget Sound region can be proud of.”

Serving as the gateway to the iconic Discovery Tram Tour, which carries guests through 435 acres of free-roaming Northwest wildlife including bison and mountain goats, the new station represents Northwest Trek’s largest capital project since opening in 1975. The $2 million tour station was funded by the 2014 voter-approved bond for Parks Tacoma (which manages the wildlife park), along with support from the wildlife park’s operating budget.

“The Discovery Tram Tour Station marks a transformative step forward for Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, setting a new standard in immersive, inclusive, and sustainable wildlife experiences,” said Alan Varsik, Director of Northwest Trek Wildlife Park and Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. “This project deepens our community’s connection to nature and reinforces our commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation within the zoo and aquarium field.”

Designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape, the new facility features:

• ADA-accessible infrastructure
• Immersive native plant landscaping
• Energy-efficient technologies
• Panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the Free-Roaming Area

A standout feature of the project is the introduction of a fully electric tram fleet, reducing annual propane use by over 14,500 gallons and significantly cutting both emissions and operational costs. These quieter, cleaner vehicles enhance the experience for both guests and wildlife, while advancing the park’s long-term sustainability goals.

The station also reflects a deep commitment to education, empathy, and inclusion. A sensory-friendly certification, accessible signage, and thoughtful design choices ensure a welcoming space for a diverse audience, aligning with AZA’s mission to foster meaningful, research-informed connections with wildlife.

This recognition from AZA underscores Northwest Trek’s leadership in creating a greener, more inclusive future for conservation-based tourism.

Visit the Award-Winning Discovery Tram Tour Station

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park hours

Open Fri–Sun: 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Closed Mon–Thurs

Learn more about the electric trams: https://www.nwtrek.org/discover/electric-trams/