On Oct 31, a group of students from our school visited the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Salt Lake City, where they experienced the beauty and diversity of aquatic and avian life up close.
Mr. Peterson’s zoology class took learning out of the classroom and into the wild on a recent field trip to the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Salt Lake City, Utah. That trip gave students the chance to experience a variety of ecosystems up close and see the animals they’ve been studying in class. From the moment they stepped inside, students were surrounded by vibrant marine life, colorful coral reefs, and the sounds of rushing waterfalls. They explored exhibits that showcased everything from the deep ocean to tropical rainforests, observing sharks, rays, penguins, otters, and countless species of birds. The “Journey to South America” exhibit was a favorite for many, offering a humid, jungle-like environment filled with bright foliage and the calls of exotic birds.
Senior Will Walker said the trip was one he won’t forget, especially his time in the rainforest area. “I went into the jungle room and it was crazy—the birds and everything that was flying everywhere,” said Walker, still amazed by the experience. Like many of his classmates, Will also stopped by the gift shop before heading home. Laughing, he admitted, “I couldn’t resist the giant pair of shark slippers.”
Junior Hazen Hess shared that he didn’t expect to enjoy the trip as much as he did, but the animals quickly changed his mind. “I wasn’t too enthusiastic about going, but after we arrived I realized that it was definitely worth it. I loved watching the River Otters tease each other and run around,” Hess said, smiling.
Mr. Peterson said he was proud of how engaged his students were throughout the day and that the field trip brought classroom concepts to life. “Seeing the animals in person helps students make real connections to what we study in zoology,” he explained.
For many, the visit to the aquarium was more than just an educational outing—it was a reminder of how fascinating and diverse the natural world can be.
