National Elk Refuge

The National Elk Refuge is 24,700 acres of federal land bordering downtown Jackson to the north, and it's one of the most remarkable wildlife spectacles in North America. For families visiting Jackson Hole, it's a must — and unlike most wildlife experiences, it doesn't require hiking to uncertain sightings. Here, the animals come to you.

The refuge was established in 1912 specifically to provide winter habitat for the Jackson Hole elk herd, which historically migrated through this valley in enormous numbers before human development fragmented their traditional winter range. Today, between 7,000 and 11,000 elk winter on the refuge from approximately November through May — one of the largest elk concentrations in the world.

For families, there are two main ways to experience the refuge. In summer and shoulder seasons, driving through the refuge (from the Flat Creek area) is free and often produces sightings of elk, bison, trumpeter swans, and a stunning variety of bird life — the refuge hosts 175+ species. The visitor center at 532 N Cache Street is free, well-designed for families, and includes exhibits, wildlife displays, and knowledgeable staff.

But the signature family experience is the winter horse-drawn sleigh ride. From late December through March, the Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation operates sleigh rides that take visitors directly into the elk herd. Picture a horse-drawn sleigh moving slowly through a field of 500-1,000 elk, the animals so accustomed to the sleighs that bulls with 6-point antlers stand 15 feet away.

Kids who've only seen wildlife from highway overlooks are genuinely transformed by this experience — it's intimate in a way that changes how they understand wildlife.

Book sleigh rides as far in advance as possible; they sell out during holiday weeks. For all other visits, the refuge is free and open daily.