Jackson: Grand Teton and National Elk Refuge Winter Day Trip

If you’re considering a visit to Wyoming during winter and want to see some of the most iconic wildlife and landscapes, this guided tour could be a great fit. It promises a full day of wildlife sightings, scenic drives, and a cozy sleigh ride — all in a manageable 8-hour package.

What really draws us in are the guided wildlife viewing in a heated vehicle—a smart choice for chilly days—and the sleigh ride on the Elk Refuge, which feels like stepping into a storybook scene. Plus, a lunch in Jackson adds some local flavor to an already memorable experience. On the flip side, the cost of $219 per person might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but when you factor in transportation, guiding, meals, and unique wildlife encounters, the value can add up.

This tour is best suited for those who love nature, are okay with being in a vehicle for much of the day, and want a comfortable, guided look at Grand Teton’s winter wilderness. If you’re traveling with small children or mobility issues, this might not be the best fit since it’s not designed for those needs. Still, for most outdoor lovers and photography fans, it offers a compelling way to experience Wyoming in winter.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable Wildlife Viewing: The tour uses a heated vehicle, making it easier to spot animals without the cold discomfort.
• Expert Guides: Visitors rave about guides like Neil, Kelsey, and Mark, who bring local knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect wide snowy plains and jagged mountain views that are pure winter magic.
• Wildlife Abundance: From moose and elk to wolves, bison, and eagles, the chance to see diverse animals is high.
• Scenic Sleigh Ride: The horse-drawn sleigh on the Elk Refuge offers close-up looks at wintering elk and photo ops.
• Great Value for Money: For $219, you get transportation, guided views, a meal, and a memorable experience.

This day trip starts early, with hotel pickup in Jackson, Teton Village, or Wilson. From there, your guide takes you into Grand Teton National Park, where winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland. You’ll be riding in a heated vehicle, which is a big plus since Wyoming winters can be pretty cold. This setup allows for extended wildlife spotting without the chill, so you can focus on searching for animals like moose, wolves, bison, bighorn sheep, eagles, and elk.

Wildlife spotting from the vehicle is often successful because guides are experienced at finding animals in the snow. We love the way guides like Neil and Mark are praised for their knowledgeable commentary, which adds depth beyond just animal viewing. They’ll share insights into the local geology, animal behaviors, and migration patterns, making the experience both fun and educational.

Expect the scenery to blow you away — enormous snowy plains interrupted by rugged mountain peaks, all under a winter sky. Guides often stop at strategic spots, giving you opportunities to take photos and learn about the landscape’s formation. As one reviewer mentioned, the guides work tirelessly to locate animals and even help with picture opportunities, making the day extra rewarding.

Lunch Break in Jackson

Midday, you’ll head into Jackson, a town famous for its Western charm and lively atmosphere. The included lunch at a local restaurant gives you a chance to warm up and enjoy some authentic Wyoming fare. Reviewers have mentioned that the lunch is good quality, and it offers a nice break before heading back out for the afternoon.

The Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride

After lunch, it’s time for the horse-drawn sleigh ride on the National Elk Refuge. This is often a favorite part of the trip, providing a relaxed way to get close to the wintering elk herds. As you glide through the low valley, your guide explains how the elk migrate from surrounding areas to this sanctuary — a natural spectacle you won’t want to miss.

The sleigh ride also offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the elk and snow-covered landscape as your backdrop. Many reviews highlight how guides are attentive to picture-taking, pulling over for shots and sharing their telescopes for better views.

End of the Day — Return to Your Hotel

After about 8 hours of scenic winter wildlife adventure, the tour wraps up with a comfortable ride back to your accommodation. You’ll leave with plenty of photos and a newfound appreciation for Wyoming’s winter wildlife.

The small group size—limited to 10 participants— means you get more personalized attention, which many travelers find valuable. The live commentary makes the experience engaging, and the included snacks and drinks keep you energized for the day.

Customer reviews consistently praise the expert guides, who seem to genuinely love sharing their knowledge. As one reviewer put it, “Neil was the best,” and many talk about guides working hard to show wildlife in sometimes tricky winter conditions.

While the cost may seem high at $219, the combination of transportation, guided wildlife viewing, lunch, and the sleigh ride makes it quite competitive. It’s a comprehensive way to see Jackson Hole’s winter wildlife and landscapes with minimal hassle and maximum comfort.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want a comfortable, guided experience. It suits travelers who prefer not to drive or hike in cold weather but still want an immersive look at Wyoming’s winter scenery.

If you’re traveling with children over five and don’t have mobility issues, you’ll appreciate the ease of the heated vehicle and sleigh ride. However, it’s not suitable for young kids under 5 or those with mobility impairments or wheelchair needs, as the activities involve limited accessibility.

Overall, if you’re looking for a well-structured, wildlife-focused outing with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this tour offers a lot of value and memorable moments.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, lunch, and the sleigh ride.

Is the vehicle heated?
Yes, the wildlife viewing is done in a heated vehicle, which helps in cold winter weather.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see moose, wolves, bison, bighorn sheep, eagles, and elk. Some reviews mention sightings of coyotes and pronghorn, too.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the guided tour, heated vehicle, lunch, sleigh ride, live commentary, a telescope, snacks, and drinks.

Do I need to pay additional fees?
Yes, there’s a $15 per person national park entrance fee not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 2 days before the tour date.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, and it’s not designed for those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly, bring a camera, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, cash, and possibly a small blanket for the sleigh ride.

All in all, this day trip from Jackson offers a nicely balanced blend of scenic beauty, wildlife excitement, and comfort. With highly praised guides, chances to see a broad range of animals, and a cozy sleigh ride, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to experience Wyoming’s winter in a relaxed but immersive way.

While it’s not cheap, many visitors find the experience worth every penny, especially given the quality of guiding and the chance to see animals in their winter habitat. If you’re someone who appreciates wildlife, stunning mountain vistas, and a hassle-free adventure, this tour might just be a highlight of your Wyoming trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: