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Discover the largest elk herd in North America on a private winter wildlife tour in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Experience guided walks, a horse-drawn sleigh ride, and breathtaking views in Grand Teton National Park’s winter wonderland.
Discover the largest elk herd in North America on a private winter wildlife tour in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Experience guided walks, a horse-drawn sleigh ride, and breathtaking views in Grand Teton National Park’s winter wonderland.
Book with Backcountry Safaris
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
241 ratings
Operated by Backcountry Safaris · Jackson, Wyoming
Located in the shadow of the majestic Teton Range, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offers one of the most spectacular winter wildlife experiences in the United States. This private full-day tour weaves through the National Elk Refuge and stretches into the pristine snowscapes of Grand Teton National Park, immersing visitors in a remote winter environment teeming with wildlife adapted to the cold. Renowned for harboring the largest elk herd in North America, the National Elk Refuge becomes a captivating winter sanctuary where elk shimmer against the snow's pure whiteness amid jagged mountain silhouettes.
Guests begin their day with a leisurely guided walk along trails framed by towering pines dusted in frost, keeping quiet to catch glimpses of elk, mule deer, and a variety of winter birds. The knowledgeable guide shares insights into the survival strategies of these animals during harsh winters and points out unique geological features like the glacially carved valleys and rugged granite spires defining the park’s topography. Midday brings a scenic picnic set against crisp mountain air and panoramic views, inviting a moment of warmth and reflection.
A highlight of the excursion is the nostalgic horse-drawn sleigh ride through the elk refuge, where silence and snowfall emphasize the scale and serenity of this vast winter landscape. This traditional mode of transportation offers an unparalleled way to observe the massive elk herds as they gather in winter, their breath visible on the cold air and antlers crowned with snow. The guide ensures a safe, intimate visit, tailored to wildlife viewing without disturbing these majestic creatures.
What makes this trip stand out is its private nature and access to iconic locations under winter conditions, when the park's crowds thin and nature commands the landscape. It’s a chance to explore Jackson Hole’s rugged beauty from a unique perspective — alive with wildlife tracks, ice-encrusted trees, and mountain vistas impossible to forget. The winter season here is not just a backdrop but a powerful participant in the adventure.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply drawn to quiet winter landscapes, this tour offers a deeply personal encounter with nature’s adaptability and resilience. Jackson Hole’s blend of vast wilderness, expert-guided insight, and classic winter charm creates an intimate outdoor experience rarely found elsewhere – a winter day well spent in the Tetons.
Yes, but children should be comfortable in cold weather for several hours and able to follow safety instructions.
A scenic picnic lunch is included during the tour to provide a warm, relaxing break.
Guides maintain a safe distance to protect animals, but you'll have excellent viewing opportunities through binoculars and the sleigh ride.
Tours may be adjusted or rescheduled for safety in case of extreme winter storms.
No prior experience is needed; this tour is guided and suitable for those new to winter wildlife viewing.
Transportation details vary; please check with the operator or booking platform for arrangements.
Backcountry Safaris operates guided outdoor adventures across Jackson Hole, Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Capitol Reef National Parks. The company offers a full spectrum of seasonal trips including hiking, wildlife safaris, snowshoe and cross‑country ski tours, snowmobile and snowcat skiing experiences, open‑air jeep excursions, e‑bike rides, and whitewater rafting combinations. Seasonal private and public departures are available, with specialized options such as sunrise and sunset safaris, half‑day scenic tours, full‑day guided hikes, and customizable private tours for families and small groups. Guides are local, professionally trained, and certified in backcountry safety, first aid, and wildlife protocol, delivering expert route selection and quiet, respectful wildlife viewing. Equipment and trip inclusions vary by tour but commonly include snacks, water, HD binoculars or spotting scopes, and optional picnic lunches or gourmet provisions on select experiences. Backcountry Safaris emphasizes small-group sizes and private departures to maximize wildlife encounters and minimize environmental impact. The operator maintains compliance with park regulations and partners with local land managers to protect habitat and cultural sites. Booking information, detailed itineraries, and seasonal availability are published for each trip—examples include Jackson Hole hiking tours, Grand Teton and Yellowstone loop tours, Capitol Reef day hikes, and winter wildlife safaris. Customer feedback highlights knowledgeable guides, reliable logistics, and memorable wildlife sightings. For travelers seeking a guided, safety-minded exploration of the region’s iconic landscapes and fauna, Backcountry Safaris provides structured, experience-driven outings tailored to skill level and seasonal conditions. Reservations are available online and through authorized local partners year-round subject to seasonal closures today.
Book with Backcountry Safaris