Jackson Hole is filled with some of the most dreamy winter activities, and at the top of that list is hopping on a sleigh ride at the National Elk Refuge. Every year, up to 11,000 elk migrate from the Tetons and Yellowstone to the valley of Jackson, creating one of the largest elk gatherings in North America. And, the sleigh rides at the National Elk Refuge allow you to get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures (plus other wildlife!).

The cherry on top? You have the most incredible view of the snow-covered Tetons behind you, as you admire from the coziness of a horse-drawn sleigh! This was one of the most picturesque and memorable experiences we had in Jackson Hole – don’t miss the chance to experience yourself!

What to Know Before Your Sleigh Ride

Location & Details

• Location: Sleigh rides depart from the National Elk Refuge Visitor Center, just outside of town, at 532 N. Cache St., Jackson, WY.
  • It’s only a 2-min drive from Jackson Square (or a quick 10-minute walk!).
• Hours of Operation: Sleigh rides operate daily from mid-December through early April, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, weather permitting. Expect your ride to last about 1.5 hours.
  • Check their website HERE when visiting early or late in the winter season to double-check they are operating.
• Cost: Tickets are $40 for adults, $25 for children aged 5-12, and free for kids 4 and under.
  • If you have a big enough group, you can also arrange a private sleigh ride upon request!
• Reservations: While not required, reservations are definitely recommended during peak holiday periods.
  • You can’t book a res online, but just head to the visitor center about 30-minutes before you’d like to go out, and you can buy tickets onsite! Look for the white trailer outside.
  • Or you can call 307-733-0277 to book ahead of time

Best Time to Visit

• December to January: The experience is only available in winter, when there’s enough snow on the grounds to allow the sleigh to coast through the snow. Head there in Dec or Jan during peak migration, where you’ll likely see the highest number of elks in the valley!
• Morning Rides: In the morning, the elk tend to be more active and on the move, so keep that in mind if you want to see some action! Later in the afternoon, they are typically resting, so you’ll see more elk lying down.
• Avoid the Crowds: Weekdays and non-holiday periods tend to be less busy, providing a more tranquil experience.

Other Things To Keep In Mind

• LAYER UP!: Winters in Jackson can be frigid, especially in winter mornings, so make sure you bundle up with gloves, scarves, hats, thermals, etc. You can also bring your own blanket on the sleigh for extra warmth!
• No Food or Drinks: While bringing a nice, warm cup of coffee on the ride sounds amazing, you cannot bring any food or drinks onto the sleigh. We don’t want to disturb the wildlife!
• Bring your Camera: If you have a camera with a zoom lens, this is the place to take it out! You’ll get some of the most beautiful shots of the elks up close, with the Tetons backdrop.
• Cash: Make sure to have a bit of cash to tip your guides. We had most informative and fun guide on our sleigh ride, that really made for an amazing experience!

What to Expect on your Sleigh Ride

After you get off the shuttle from the visitor center, you’ll be dropped off to load onto your sleigh! You’ll get seated onto the sleigh, which has two rows of benches around the edges, pulled by two Belgian Draft horses.

And off the horses go, pulling you towards the largest migration of elk in North America. Your guide will give you a run down of the history of the refuge and next thing you know, you’ll be just feet away from thousands of elk!

The snowy refuge covers over 24,000 acres, and you’ll ride around the property, getting up close with the mass gatherings of the elk in every direction. I was in awe of these big animals with the snow-capped peaks of the Tetons in the distance.

During the sleigh ride, you’ll not only see elk grazing in the open plains but might even get to see some other wildlife. We got to see several bald eagles, a family of swans, & coyotes off in the distance. I’ve heard of people even seeing wolves or bison! 

The guides are all super friendly & knowledgeable – you’ll definitely learn a lot, and get to see the wildlife of Jackson in such an incredible setting. 

Whether you’re snapping photos or simply soaking in the view, the scenery alone makes this excursion worth every moment!

Looking for a more tips for your next trip to Jackson Hole? Check out my other posts for where to eat, drink, stay, plus all the other winter activities Jackson offers HERE.