Jackson Hole: National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride

If you’re heading to Wyoming and want a winter activity that combines wildlife, history, and true scenic beauty, the National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride offers a memorable experience. This tour, offered by Double H Bar, takes you on a horse-drawn sleigh through one of North America’s most impressive elk habitats, nestled against the rugged backdrop of the Grand Teton Mountains.

What makes this adventure special? First, you’ll get the chance to see thousands of elk in their winter migration, a sight that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring. Second, the guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, enriching your journey with stories and insights that add depth to the scenery.

One consideration worth noting is that the tour lasts about 1.5 hours including shuttle time, which might feel brief if you’re craving a longer wilderness encounter. Still, for most travelers, the value-packed experience, especially at just $42 per person, makes it an excellent choice for a compact, authentic taste of Wyoming winter wildlife.

This tour suits those who love nature and wildlife, appreciate scenic mountain views, and enjoy learning about conservation efforts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. If you’re looking for a cozy, engaging way to connect with Wyoming’s natural beauty, this sleigh ride deserves serious consideration.

Key Points

• Unmatched wildlife viewing of North America’s largest migrating elk herd in their winter habitat.
• Expert guides provide engaging insights into elk behavior, migration patterns, and refuge conservation.
• Stunning scenery, with the snowy Grand Tetons serving as a dramatic backdrop.
• Affordable value for a 1.5-hour experience, especially considering the quality of the wildlife encounters.
• Limited impact on the refuge — no pets, food, or drinks allowed on the sleigh, respecting the animals and environment.
• Perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a slow, scenic outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect and How It Works

The journey begins at the visitor center, where you’ll check in at a simple white trailer. From there, a shuttle whisks you down to the sleigh loading area, a process that generally runs every 20-30 minutes, so timing is flexible. Expect the entire experience, including shuttle rides, to last about 1.5 hours.

Once aboard a horse-drawn sleigh, you’ll glide across the snow-covered landscape, surrounded by the sounds of winter wilderness. The sleigh itself is a cozy, traditional vessel that offers a peaceful, old-fashioned way to explore the refuge without disturbing the animals. The ride typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour, giving you ample opportunity to see the herds and wildlife.

Scenery and Wildlife Encounters

The main highlight, as several reviews emphasize, is witnessing the massive elk herds in their winter habitat. These animals migrate en masse to the refuge, and during the tour, you’ll see thousands of elk in herds, often with the majestic Grand Tetons looming in the background. Expect to see other wildlife, including bison, coyotes, wolves, eagles, and various birds. One guest described the landscape as looking “surreal,” especially with snow in the air and the mountains in the distance.

The Guides and Their Role

The guides are a core part of the experience. Many reviews highlight their knowledgeability and engaging storytelling. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and answered all questions,” while others mention guides who “had so much knowledge and a great attitude.” Their role is not just to drive the sleigh but to share fascinating facts about elk migration, refuge management, and the local ecosystem.

The Experience of the Ride

Travelers consistently describe the ride as calm, scenic, and educational. The soundscape of winter nature—birds calling, the crunch of snow under the horses’ hooves—adds to the serenity. The view of the Tetons amid snow-laden trees is often cited as a highlight, providing a perfect setting for photography and quiet reflection.

Some guests have expressed slight disappointment when the herd was difficult to find early in the day or due to fog, but overall, the reviews underscore exceptional wildlife sightings. One wrote, “We enjoyed riding the sleigh with others who were part of our group. The guide was very knowledgeable and fun to be with.”

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The Practicalities: Cost, Comfort, and Conservation

At $42 per person, this tour offers great value—a reasonable price for the intimate, hands-on experience with wildlife and nature. Given the limited duration, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a unique outdoor adventure that doesn’t require a full day or strenuous effort.

Dress warmly, as temperatures can be quite cold, especially with wind chill. Layering, hats, gloves, and scarves are recommended. Blankets are not provided, so bringing your own can make the ride even more comfortable.

The tour emphasizes low impact on the refuge, with strict rules against pets, food, drinks, or littering. This respect for the environment ensures the elk and other wildlife are not disturbed, making it a responsible, conservation-minded activity.

What Some Travelers Love Most

From the reviews, it’s clear that what stands out most are the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. Several guests mention how guides go beyond basic narration, sharing interesting facts and stories that enrich the experience. The chance to see thousands of elk up close is a highlight, described as “fabulous” and “more encounters than expected.”

Guests also appreciate the authenticity of the sleigh ride, feeling it’s a true Western tradition that offers a glimpse into the wildlife management efforts in the area. The family-friendly nature and the opportunity to meet the horses after the ride make it appealing for all ages.

The Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers mention timing and weather conditions. Fog or snow can sometimes limit visibility or make it more challenging to find the herds early in the day. The duration of about 45 minutes might seem brief for some, though the overall experience of shuttle time and wildlife viewing makes it worthwhile.

Plus, the lack of blankets means you’ll want to bundle up, especially if visiting in the coldest months. The fixed schedule and the need to reserve in advance, especially during busy seasons, also require planning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sleigh ride is ideal for nature lovers, families with children, and anyone interested in wildlife conservation. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly excursion that offers a gentle and scenic way to experience Wyoming’s winter landscape.

Those who value expert guides and a small-group atmosphere will find it especially rewarding. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a long, rugged outdoor adventure or those who prefer more active pursuits, but for a peaceful, scenic encounter with the wild elk herd, it hits the mark.

The Jackson Hole National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride offers a charming, authentic slice of Wyoming’s winter wilderness. At a fair price, it delivers stunning mountain views, close encounters with elk, and fascinating stories from guides that truly enhance the experience.

While it’s not a lengthy tour, its high-quality wildlife viewing and scenic beauty make it a worthy addition to any Jackson Hole itinerary. It’s particularly well-suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a gentle, memorable outdoor activity with a touch of history and conservation.

For those looking to connect with nature without strenuous activity, this sleigh ride provides a perfect blend of relaxation, education, and breathtaking scenery.

How long does the sleigh ride last?
The sleigh ride itself lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, with the full experience including shuttle transportation around 1.5 hours.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including hats, gloves, and scarves, because it can be very cold in Wyoming winter. Blankets are not provided, so bringing your own can make the trip more comfortable.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes. Pets, food, and drinks are not allowed on the sleigh to avoid disturbing the wildlife. Littering is also prohibited.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Absolutely. The tour is family-friendly and suitable for children, especially those who enjoy outdoor adventures and wildlife.

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to reserve in advance, especially during busy holiday seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.

What wildlife might I see?
Besides the elk herds, you might spot bison, coyotes, wolves, eagles, and various birds, providing a well-rounded wildlife experience.

Is the guide English-speaking?
Yes, the guides speak English and are keen to share their knowledge and answer questions.

Can I bring my camera?
Definitely. The scenery and wildlife are photogenic, but be sure to dress warmly and handle your camera carefully in cold weather.

What if the weather is foggy or snowy?
Weather can impact visibility. Some guests reported difficulty finding the herd early on, but most still enjoyed seeing wildlife and the stunning winter landscape.

Is the tour environmentally friendly?
Yes, the tour emphasizes low impact on the refuge, with rules to minimize disturbance to the animals and habitat.

Is tipping the guide expected?
While not mandatory, many reviewers suggest tipping your guide for their knowledge and friendly service—a great way to show appreciation.

This detailed look into the Jackson Hole National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride reveals a genuinely worthwhile experience that balances nature, education, and cultural charm. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful, scenic, and wildlife-rich winter outing in Wyoming.

You can check availability for your dates here: