Grand Teton & Native American Petroglyph Tour from Jackson Hole

Spend a day between the jagged rises of the Tetons and the basalt outcrops east of Jackson Hole, searching for bighorn, moose and wolves and viewing 1,500-year-old Eastern Shoshone petroglyphs. This small-group tour blends wildlife watching, interpretive exhibits and a short cultural hike.

Jackson, Wyoming•

8–10 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

The van slips out of Jackson before the light has fully softened, and the Tetons stand as a serrated silhouette against a clear Wyoming sky. Conversation quiets; binoculars appear. Over the next eight to ten hours, the landscape alternates between alpine meadows, river-carved valleys and the low, wind-swept plateaus east of the range. Wildlife is not an afterthought here — it leads the itinerary. Guides scan rocky ledges for bighorn ewes, watch willows for moose, and tune into the subtle language of hooves, fur and feathers.

Before You Go

Layer for changeable mountain weather

Temperatures swing widely in one day—bring a warm midlayer and a waterproof shell even in summer.

Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens

Wildlife sightings can be at a distance; optics improve viewing and photography without disturbing animals.

Plan for long driving segments

Expect several hours on country roads between stops—pack snacks, water, and motion-sickness remedies if needed.

Respect petroglyph sites

Stay on designated paths, don’t touch rock art, and follow your guide’s instructions to preserve cultural resources.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Wind River Canyon overlook pullouts for canyon views and river rafting photos
•Small roadside viewing points along U.S. 26/287 for intimate bighorn and pronghorn sightings

Wildlife

•Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep
•Moose

Conservation Note

Guides enforce distance rules around wildlife and protect petroglyph sites; staying on roads and following instructions minimizes visitor impact.

Petroglyphs viewed on this route were created by Eastern Shoshone ancestors roughly 1,500 years ago and hold spiritual and cultural significance for the Wind River communities.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Early morning, Late afternoon/golden hour, Midday at petroglyph sites for even light

Key viewpoints:

• Teton pullouts near Jenny Lake for range profiles
• National Bighorn Sheep Center observation areas for close-up sheep portraits
• Roadside overlooks east of the Tetons for sweeping valley shots

Subjects to capture:Large mammals (bighorn, moose), Rock art and textured basalt, Wide mountain landscapes

What to Bring

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Warm midlayer (fleece or down)Essential

High-country winds and shade can make mornings and evenings cold.

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Sturdy hiking shoes or bootsEssential

Required for rocky approaches to petroglyph panels and winter walking conditions.

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Binoculars or telephoto lensEssential

Improves wildlife viewing and allows respectful distance from animals and rock art.

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Daypack with water and snacksEssential

Keeps you hydrated and comfortable during long driving segments and short hikes.

Common Questions

How long is the tour and what are the start/end times?

The tour runs approximately 8–10 hours; exact pickup time varies—call Brushbuck Guide Services 14 days before your tour to confirm.

Is wildlife viewing guaranteed?

No—wildlife is wild. The itinerary includes the National Bighorn Sheep Center in Dubois to provide context and viewing opportunities if field sightings are limited.

Can children join this tour?

Children aged 6 and older are generally welcome; infants and children 5 and under are excluded from public tours. Confirm age policies when booking.

Do I have to hike to see the petroglyphs?

No. There is a short hike to reach several panels, but many petroglyphs can be viewed from the vehicle with provided binoculars if you prefer to stay put.