Jackson Hole: National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Wyoming’s iconic winter scenery, the National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride offers just that. This tour promises a peaceful journey through snow-covered fields, where herds of elk roam freely against the backdrop of the stunning Grand Teton Mountains. While we haven’t personally joined the ride, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see North America’s largest migrating elk herd in their natural winter habitat. Second, the knowledgeable guides who share captivating stories and insights about wildlife and conservation efforts. Third, the gorgeous snowy vistas that make for incredible photo opportunities. One potential consideration is that the total experience lasts around 1.5 hours, which might feel short for some, especially given the scenic splendor on offer. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an authentic, relaxed encounter with Wyoming’s wildlife and landscapes without strenuous activity or long hours.

• Authentic wildlife viewing in the company of expert guides
• Stunning winter scenery of the Tetons and snow-covered plains
• Educational insights about the refuge’s conservation efforts
• Family-friendly and suitable for all ages
• Affordable price point at $42 per person for a memorable experience
• Limited logistics — no hotel pickup, but easy check-in at the visitor center

The Jackson Hole National Elk Refuge offers a quintessential Wyoming winter scene, where vast snowy landscapes are punctuated by the dark silhouettes of elk herds. The sleigh ride, operated by Double H Bar, provides a cozy and calm way to see this incredible environment without the need for vigorous trekking or snowshoes. The sleigh itself is horse-drawn and can comfortably carry guests across the snow, giving a sense of stepping back into a Western postcard.

The Itinerary: What Travelers Can Expect

The tour begins at the visitor center, where you check in at a white trailer and wait for the shuttle that transports you to the sleigh loading point. Shuttles run every 20-30 minutes, so there’s flexibility in choosing your preferred time. Once loaded onto the sleigh, your journey lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour, during which you’ll glide through the refuge, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.

The ride itself is a gentle, scenic experience. Guides, like Lynn, are praised for their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling. Expect to learn about the elk migration patterns, refuge management, and the efforts to protect these majestic creatures. One reviewer noted that their guide, starting with a “C,” answered every question thoroughly and kept the group entertained.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Wildlife Encounters — More Than Just Elk

While the main attraction is the elk herd, the refuge is home to diverse wildlife. During the ride, you might spot coyotes, wolves, bison, eagles, and various bird species, making each trip a different adventure. Several reviews highlight the abundance of wildlife sightings; one traveler remarked, “the amount of encounters exceeded expectations,” which is not surprising given the vastness of the refuge.

Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of species visible, especially with the snow acting as a stunning backdrop. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of eagles soaring above or wolves across the distance. The guides are expert at pointing out these animals and explaining their behaviors, adding educational value to the scenic ride.

The Scenic Marvels

The views during the sleigh ride are among the highlight for many travelers. The Grand Teton Mountains, often capped with snow, loom imposingly in the background, creating perfect photo opportunities. The pristine white snow blankets the landscape, and the quiet serenity of the winter environment makes it a peaceful escape from busy city life.

Guests report that the snow in the air and on the ground makes the experience feel surreal, with some remarking that the scenery “looked like a painting.” This is a tour best appreciated with a camera, but even without, the vistas leave a lasting impression.

The Guides and Their Role

Guides like Lynn and others are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to answer questions. Several reviews mention guides going above and beyond, sharing fascinating facts about elk behavior, migration, and the history of the refuge. Their respectful and caring attitude towards the horses also ensures a smooth and humane ride.

One reviewer noted, “our guide was truly amazing and full of knowledge,” which enhances the experience profoundly. The guides’ passion for wildlife and conservation helps deepen your appreciation for this natural sanctuary.

Practical Details & Value

At $42 per person, this tour offers very good value considering the immersive wildlife watching, scenic views, and educational insights. The duration of 1.5 hours includes shuttle time, making it a relaxed, not overly lengthy experience. The sleigh ride itself lasts about 45 minutes, providing a substantial window to enjoy the surroundings.

What’s Included: the sleigh ride and guide, with no additional costs for wildlife spotting or scenery. However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the visitor center.

What to Bring: Dress warmly; layers, gloves, and hats are recommended, as temperatures can be quite cold even with clear skies. Blankets are not supplied, so bringing your own can add comfort.

Restrictions: Pets, food, and drinks are not permitted on the sleigh, mainly to avoid disturbing the wildlife. The tour emphasizes low impact on the refuge, so visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment.

Most visitors find the guides to be a highlight, often mentioning their knowledgeable and friendly nature. As one reviewer shared, “the guides answered all questions and included much more information about the elk and wildlife,” enhancing the educational value.

The scenery consistently receives high praise. One traveler described it as “surreal,” with the expansive landscape, snow in the air, and mountains in the backdrop creating a picture-perfect winter scene. Others appreciated the wildlife encounters, often stating that they saw more animals than anticipated, including coyotes, foxes, and bison.

A few guests mentioned that early morning fog can sometimes obscure visibility, and the ride duration felt a little brief for some, but overall, the consensus is that this tour is well worth the price. Many state it was a highlight of their trip to Jackson Hole.

This sleigh ride is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic wildlife experience without strenuous activity. It’s suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and couples alike. If you love nature photography or simply want to witness the grandeur of Wyoming’s winter landscape, this tour delivers in spades.

It’s especially attractive for those who value educational insights and guided expertise—the guides make a difference, sharing stories that turn a scenic ride into a memorable lesson in wildlife conservation. With affordable pricing and a package that includes everything you need for a peaceful winter adventure, it’s a smart choice for anyone in Jackson Hole wanting to connect with nature in a meaningful way.

What is the duration of the sleigh ride?
The sleigh ride lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour, with the entire experience including shuttle time being around 1.5 hours.

Is there a specific time I need to reserve?
Yes, booking in advance is highly encouraged, especially during busy holiday periods. You will be contacted to confirm your exact ride time close to your booked slot.

Do I need to bring anything?
Warm clothing is essential, as temperatures can be cold even during sunny days. Bringing your own blankets is recommended since they are not provided.

Are there any restrictions on pets or food?
Pets, food, and drinks are not allowed on the sleigh ride to avoid disturbing the wildlife and to maintain the low-impact nature of the refuge.

What wildlife might I see?
Besides elk, expect potential sightings of coyotes, wolves, bison, eagles, and various bird species.

How many people typically ride together?
This depends on the group size booked, but the experience is generally shared with a small to medium-sized group, making it intimate and engaging.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the ride is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, provided they are dressed warmly.

Is transportation to the visitor center included?
No, guests need to arrange their own transportation to the check-in point at the visitor center.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but if conditions are severe, you might be contacted to reschedule or cancel with a full refund.

This National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride offers a genuine taste of Wyoming’s winter wilderness, blending scenic beauty, wildlife, and expert storytelling into a memorable outing. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or simply want to experience the quiet majesty of the Tetons covered in snow, it’s an experience that’s hard to forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: