Jackson Hole: National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride

If you’re visiting Jackson Hole during winter, a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge is one of those bucket-list experiences worth making time for. This tour promises both a taste of Western tradition and a chance to see some of North America’s largest elk herds in their winter habitat. While we haven’t personally strapped into a sleigh ourselves, the reviews and information paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is how it combines spectacular winter scenery with an educational component. You’ll get close enough to the herds to feel part of the action without disturbing these majestic creatures. Plus, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the ride more than just a scenic tour — it’s an engaging learning experience.

A potential consideration is that weather conditions can sometimes impact the experience — fog, snow, or cold might limit how close you get or the duration of wildlife sightings. During peak seasons, reservations are strongly recommended, so planning ahead will ensure you don’t miss out. This tour suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cozy outdoor adventures—especially those with a sense of curiosity about conservation efforts in the American West.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unforgettable winter scenery with views of the Grand Tetons and snow-covered landscapes.
• Wildlife sightings include elk, coyotes, wolves, bison, eagles, and more.
• Expert guides provide engaging insights into elk behavior and refuge conservation.
• Horse-drawn sleigh ride offers a traditional, historic way to explore the refuge.
• Good value at $42 per person for 1.5 hours, including shuttle service.
• Highly rated with a 4.7/5 from over 140 reviews, indicating consistent satisfaction.

The journey begins at the visitor center in Jackson Hole, where you’ll check in at a white trailer. From there, a shuttle whisks you to the loading area, typically every 20-30 minutes, making it easy to coordinate your timing. Once at the refuge, you’ll climb aboard a horse-drawn sleigh, which has been a Wyoming tradition for generations.

The sleigh ride itself lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, winding through the snow-dusted landscape, with stunning views of the Grand Tetons in the background. This isn’t a high-speed adventure but rather a gentle, relaxed glide through one of the most scenic winter habitats in North America. The slow pace allows ample time to observe the herds and listen to your guide’s commentary.

Guides are a standout feature; reviews repeatedly mention how knowledgeable and personable they are. Brittney from the U.S. loved the way her guide answered questions and shared extra details about the elk and wildlife. Lynn, another reviewer, called her guide “amazing,” highlighting her enthusiasm and expertise, which made the trip more engaging. Expect to learn about elk migration patterns, refuge management, and wildlife conservation efforts—all essential for appreciating why this herd migrates here each winter.

While the main focus is on the elk, the entire experience is layered with other wildlife encounters. You might spot bison, coyotes, foxes, eagles, and wolves, as well as a variety of bird species. Some reviewers noted that the herd can be quite large—“the largest migrating elk herd in North America”—making it an impressive sight, especially when the herd is spread across the snowy plains.

The ride is designed to be eco-friendly and low-impact, with strict rules against feeding animals, littering, or bringing pets. Blankets are not provided, so dressing warmly is vital — think layers, hats, gloves, and insulated footwear. When the weather turns cold, the landscape looks especially surreal, with snowflakes falling gently and the mountains forming a dramatic backdrop.

At $42 per person, this tour offers respectable value. For roughly an hour and a half of total experience time—including shuttle rides, loading, and the sleigh ride—you get a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Wyoming’s winter wildlife. Many reviewers feel that the cost is justified, especially considering the quality of guides and the chance to see a massive herd of elk in their natural habitat.

It’s important to book in advance, especially during peak holiday seasons, as the popularity means spots fill quickly. The tours are usually available in the morning and afternoon, giving flexibility to fit into your itinerary. The full experience lasts about 1.5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.

While no food or drinks are allowed onboard (to protect the animals and preserve the pristine environment), nearby facilities at the visitor center provide options before or after your ride. If you’re traveling with children or wildlife enthusiasts, this tour offers enough excitement and education to satisfy everyone.

The glowing reviews underline the tour’s strengths: guides’ knowledge, stunning scenery, and good value. Shyamal appreciated the “snow in the air and mountains in the background,” calling the landscape “surreal.” Others like Terry praised her guide Lynn, noting her “fantastic narration about the refuge’s history and elk behavior.”

Many travelers highlight how close they managed to get to the herds, with one saying, “you go right through the herd,” offering an intimate look at these animals. Multiple reviewers mention that the trip exceeded expectations, with some describing the wildlife encounters as “amazing” or “more than I hoped for.”

A few points of constructive feedback include the importance of dressing warmly and the challenge of perfect weather. Dawn mentioned that fog made it difficult to see the herd initially, but once found, the experience was still rewarding. Missy pointed out that her trip was affected by winter fog, but overall, the scenery remained breathtaking.

• Dress warmly; layers, hats, gloves, and insulated boots are essential.
• Arrive early to check in and ensure you secure your preferred time slot.
• Book well in advance during busy seasons to avoid disappointment.
• Bring your own blankets if you’re concerned about staying warm — they’re not provided.
• Be prepared for a gentle ride, not a high-speed adventure, and enjoy the tranquility.
• Remember that pets are not allowed to protect the wildlife, and no food or drinks are permitted onboard.
• The total experience runs around 1.5 hours, so plan your day around it.
• Guides often have a wealth of information, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.

This sleigh ride in Jackson Hole’s National Elk Refuge offers a peaceful, scenic window into Wyoming’s winter wildlife. It’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a relaxed outdoor activity with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and photo-taking. The knowledgeable guides make it engaging and educational, adding depth to the experience.

For those who appreciate authentic Western traditions or are simply looking for a memorable winter outing, this tour delivers more than just pretty views — it creates lasting memories. It’s especially suited for nature lovers and anyone curious about elk migration and wildlife conservation.

If you’re traveling during winter and want to experience the quiet majesty of the Grand Tetons, this sleigh ride is a peaceful yet exhilarating way to do so. It’s a genuine, value-packed excursion that balances scenic beauty with wildlife encounters, making it well worth the time and money.

• How long is the sleigh ride? The ride lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• What is included in the price? The tour includes the sleigh ride itself and a guide who shares insights about the refuge and wildlife.
• Is transportation provided? No, but check-in is at the visitor center, and shuttles are provided to and from the loading area every 20-30 minutes.
• Are blankets provided? No, blankets are not supplied, so dress warmly.
• Can I bring food or drinks? No, food and drinks are not allowed on the sleigh for animal protection reasons.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially if children are dressed warmly.
• What wildlife might I see? Expect to see elk, coyotes, wolves, bison, eagles, and various birds.
• What if the weather is bad? Weather can impact visibility and the experience; reservations are recommended for better planning.
• How far in advance should I book? During peak seasons, booking as early as possible is advised.
• Are pets allowed? No, pets are not permitted to prevent disturbance to the animals.

This ride combines the thrill of wildlife spotting with the charm of a traditional horse-drawn sleigh, all set against the stunning backdrop of Wyoming’s winter landscape. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure, it’s a tour that’s unlikely to disappoint.