National Elk Refuge

The National Elk Refuge was created in response to the severe winter of 1909, which saw thousands of elk starving in the Jackson Hole valley due to expanding human settlement cutting off their traditional migration routes. Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages the refuge, providing supplemental feeding during the harshest winter months to sustain the herd, which averages around 7,000 elk. The refuge is not just a sanctuary for elk; it is a complex ecosystem supporting a diverse array of Rocky Mountain wildlife.

A visit here is deeply educational. The Jackson Hole Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center serves as the gateway to the refuge, offering interactive exhibits about the region's ecology and the history of the elk herd. Taking a sleigh ride is the quintessential refuge experience. Pulled by draft horses, these sleighs glide silently over the snow, allowing visitors to get remarkably close to the elk without causing them stress. The guides, often local ranchers or wildlife experts, share fascinating stories about the animals' behavior, the challenges of conservation, and the history of the Jackson Hole valley.

Reasons to Visit

• Unmatched Wildlife Viewing: See thousands of elk up close in their natural winter habitat.
• Iconic Sleigh Rides: Experience a traditional, horse-drawn sleigh ride through a snowy wilderness.
• Photography: Capture stunning images of wildlife against the dramatic backdrop of the Grand Tetons.
• Conservation Education: Learn about the vital efforts to preserve the Jackson Elk Herd and local ecosystems.
• Birdwatching: Spot bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and various waterfowl in the refuge's wetlands.

Things to Avoid

• Approaching Wildlife: Never try to get close to the animals on foot; it is dangerous and illegal.
• Underdressing: Do not underestimate the Wyoming winter cold; dress in heavy layers.
• Drones: The use of drones is strictly prohibited on the refuge to prevent stressing the wildlife.
• Off-Road Driving: Stick strictly to designated roads and pullouts to protect the fragile habitat.

Local Transportation Tips

The best way to access the National Elk Refuge is by car. The Jackson Hole Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, where sleigh rides depart, is located just a few blocks north of the Jackson Town Square. During the winter, a free shuttle bus (START Bus) operates around Jackson, making it easy to reach the visitor center without driving. If you plan to drive the refuge road (Refuge Road) for independent wildlife viewing, a 4WD or AWD vehicle is highly recommended during the winter months due to snow and ice.

Travel Etiquette

• Keep Quiet: Maintain a low volume while on the sleigh rides to avoid startling the elk.
• Stay in the Sleigh: Never attempt to stand up or step out of the sleigh during the tour.
• Respect Boundaries: Obey all posted signs and closures; they are there to protect both you and the wildlife.
• Leave No Trace: Take all trash with you and do not leave any food behind.

Recommended Age Group

The National Elk Refuge is a highly accessible and awe-inspiring destination for visitors of almost all ages, offering a unique blend of adventure and education.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While they can join the sleigh rides, the extreme cold requires intense bundling, and they may not engage with the wildlife viewing.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children are usually thrilled by the horse-drawn sleighs and the sheer number of large animals they can see up close.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Great for budding photographers and those interested in biology, conservation, and the outdoors.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the iconic landscapes of the American West.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The sleigh rides require very little physical exertion, making it an excellent way for older adults to experience the wilderness comfortably.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The Jackson Hole Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms and exhibits.
• Accessible sleighs are available for the winter tours, but they must be requested in advance to ensure availability.
• The refuge roads offer excellent wildlife viewing directly from the comfort of a vehicle, making it highly accessible for those with limited mobility.
• Service animals are permitted, but visitors should consult with refuge staff beforehand, as the presence of a dog can sometimes agitate the elk or attract predators like wolves.

Did You Know?

Every spring, the Boy Scouts of America assist in collecting the antlers shed by the male elk on the refuge. These antlers are then auctioned off at the annual ElkFest in Jackson Town Square, with the majority of the proceeds going directly back to the refuge to fund the winter feeding program.

Cool Statistics

• Established: 1912
• Size: 24,700 acres
• Average Winter Herd Size: 7,000 elk
• Antlers Shed Annually: Thousands of pounds, collected every spring.
• Elevation: Approximately 6,200 feet above sea level.