Sunrise Wildlife Tour of Grand Teton National Park from Jackson Hole
Wake before dawn to watch the Tetons pull themselves out of night. This five-hour sunrise tour from Jackson Hole layers wildlife viewing, classic viewpoints like Oxbow Bend and Jenny Lake, and local history into a compact morning adventure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layered warmth
Temperatures at sunrise can be sharply colder than in town; bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves to stay comfortable during long observation periods.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto
Guides stop at vantage points; a 200mm+ lens or good binoculars will capture wildlife without getting too close.
Respect wildlife distances
Stay inside the vehicle or at marked viewpoints; moose and bears can charge unexpectedly if disturbed.
Book early for spring and summer
Small-group tours fill quickly during peak migration and calving seasons; reserve in advance to secure sunrise slots.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive the Gros Ventre Road for quiet moose habitat and fewer crowds
- •Stop at the Moulton Barn on Antelope Flats for unobstructed Tetons and great morning light
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Trumpeter swan
Conservation Note
Grand Teton enforces strict wildlife viewing distances and seasonal closures; use established roads and trails to limit habitat disturbance and pack out all trash.
The valley was historically used by Shoshone people long before Mormon homesteaders arrived; many place names reflect indigenous and settler histories.
Photographer's Notes
- • Oxbow Bend for reflections and river scenes
- • Jenny Lake shoreline for alpine foregrounds
- • Antelope Flats/Moulton Barns for classic barn-and-peak shots
What to Bring
Warm layer or down jacketEssential
Keeps you comfortable during cold, wind-swept mornings in the valley.
Binoculars or spotting scopeEssential
Essential for scanning ridgelines and identifying distant wildlife without disturbing them.
Camera with a telephoto lens
A 200mm+ lens captures wildlife and the mountain reflections at Oxbow Bend.
Water bottle and small snacksEssential
Hydration and a quick snack will keep energy steady during the early morning hours.
Common Questions
Where does the tour pick up?
Pickups are offered from Jackson and Teton Village hotels; if outside town you will meet at the Home Ranch Parking Lot at 250 N. Cache St.
How likely am I to see wildlife?
Sightings are common—moose, pronghorn, bison, and waterfowl are regularly seen—but wildlife cannot be guaranteed.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour and transportation are wheelchair accessible; contact the operator during booking to confirm any specific needs.
What is included in the breakfast?
A light breakfast is provided with options such as sausage or bacon egg wraps, egg and cheese muffins, or yogurt and fruit.
What should I do if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions; dress appropriately. In cases of hazardous conditions the operator will cancel or reschedule per their policy.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before departure; cancellations within 24 hours are nonrefundable and trips may be canceled if minimum travelers are not met.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Jackson, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to sit for several short drives and do brief, uneven-ground strolls at viewpoints.
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