Half-Day Winter Grand Teton Tour & Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride — Wildlife, Photo Stops & Sunrise Views
Watch the Tetons wake as guides thread wildlife-rich valley floors and the National Elk Refuge on a 4-hour winter tour. Expect binoculars, photography stops at Snake River viewpoints and a one-hour horse-drawn sleigh ride across elk winter range.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time for light
Book a dawn or dusk departure—the low sun boosts wildlife activity and gives cleaner, directional light for photos.
Dress in layers
Temperatures swing quickly; insulated mid-layers plus a windproof shell and warm gloves will keep you focused on viewing, not cold.
Bring a tele lens
A 200–400mm lens or a good zoom makes wildlife shots from the viewing areas and sleigh ride much more rewarding.
Give animals space
Remain quiet and stay behind the guide—approaching elk or bison disturbs winter energy reserves and is unsafe.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Schwabacher’s Landing for reflective Snake River foregrounds
- •Mormon Row historic barns for classic Teton silhouettes
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Winter is a critical energy-saving season for large ungulates—staying on vehicle-accessible routes and respecting refuge boundaries reduces stress on animals and helps preserve habitat.
The National Elk Refuge was established in 1912 to protect wintering elk populations as settlement reduced natural winter range; ranching history still shapes valley landscapes.
Photographer's Notes
- • Snake River overlook near Oxbow Bend
- • Schwabacher’s Landing
- • National Elk Refuge viewing areas
What to Bring
Insulated jacket and base layersEssential
Traps heat and lets you shed layers as the sun comes up or winds shift.
Waterproof insulated bootsEssential
Warm feet are essential for standing during photo stops and moving between viewpoints.
Telephoto lens (200–400mm) or zoomEssential
Pulls distant wildlife and Teton details into frame from safe viewing distances.
Binoculars or spotting scope
Useful for scanning refuge flats and picking out animals before the vehicle stops.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The full experience is approximately four hours, combining scenic driving, multiple photo stops and a roughly one-hour public sleigh ride on the National Elk Refuge.
Do you provide pickup?
Yes—pickup is available in Jackson, Wilson and Teton Village; guests staying over Teton Pass or in outlying Idaho areas will need to meet at designated lots.
Is the tour suitable for children and infants?
Yes—infant seats are available and the sleigh ride is family-friendly, but plan for cold-weather gear for young children and check age-related booking policies.
What wildlife will I likely see?
Guides commonly find elk, bison, moose and bald eagles in winter; sightings of wolves or coyotes occur but are less predictable.
What if weather cancels the tour?
The operator may cancel for unsafe road or weather conditions; you can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure or if the tour is canceled by the supplier.
Are bathrooms available during the tour?
Stops are at viewpoints and facilities when available—plan accordingly before departure and ask your guide about options during booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Jackson, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels — mostly short stops and vehicle travel; minimal walking on packed snow or boardwalks
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