Grand Teton Wildlife Safari and National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride — Jackson Hole Winter Wildlife Tour
Spend a private half‑day tracking winter wildlife in Grand Teton National Park, then glide by sleigh into the National Elk Refuge for close encounters with elk, eagles, and sweeping Teton views. This guided tour combines optics, field lunch, and local naturalist narration.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in functional layers
Temperatures can swing; wear a moisture‑wicking base, insulating mid‑layer, and a windproof shell to stay comfortable during long stationary observation periods.
Protect batteries and lenses
Cold drains camera and phone batteries quickly—carry spares in inside pockets and use lens cloths to prevent condensation when moving between temperatures.
Bring hand warmers and mittens
Gloves that allow you to operate binoculars are ideal; disposable hand warmers give extra endurance for long scopeside watches.
Arrive prepared for minimal walking
Most of the experience is vehicle‑ and sleigh‑based with short flat walks—sturdy winter boots are more important than hiking poles for this tour.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Wind River valley viewpoints along the approach offer quiet raptor watching away from the main refuge.
- •Small pullouts near Mormon Row provide classic Teton compositions without long hikes.
Wildlife
- •Elk
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
The refuge balances public access with wildlife needs; stay on designated routes, avoid close approaches to animals, and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance.
The National Elk Refuge was created in 1912 to provide winter habitat and managed feeding for elk herds; sleigh rides remain a historic method of viewing the animals safely.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along refuge roads for open prairie shots with Tetons behind
- • From the sleigh for low‑angle wildlife portraits
What to Bring
Insulated winter jacketEssential
Keeps core warm during long periods of observation and seated sleigh time.
Waterproof insulated bootsEssential
Necessary for walking in snow and staying dry during field lunch stops.
Layered clothing (base and mid layers)Essential
Layering lets you adjust warmth while moving between vehicle, sleigh, and open plains.
Camera with telephoto or a good smartphone with spare batteries
A telephoto captures distant wildlife; cold drains batteries fast—bring spares kept warm inside your jacket.
Common Questions
Is wildlife guaranteed on the tour?
No; guides choose productive areas and sightings are common—especially elk and eagles in winter—but wildlife is never guaranteed.
Are binoculars and scopes provided?
Yes; the tour includes binoculars, a spotting scope, and field guides for everyone.
Is the sleigh ride suitable for children and infants?
Yes; the tour is family‑friendly and infant seats are available—check with the operator when booking.
How cold does it get and what should I wear?
Temperatures often sit below freezing in winter—wear insulated, windproof outer layers, warm boots, and mittens or gloves suitable for optics use.
Where does the tour start and is pickup available?
Meet at the Home Ranch parking lot (Cache & Gill) in Jackson or arrange hotel pickup from many local properties—confirm the pickup point in advance.
Can people with limited mobility participate?
The tour is accessible for many, with limited walking; contact the operator ahead of time to discuss specific mobility needs and accommodations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Jackson, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; participants should be able to stand and walk short distances on flat, possibly snowy ground.
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