From Teton Peaks to Ancient Panels: A Day Chasing Bighorns and Petroglyphs
A single-day circuit through Tetons, sheep habitat and sacred rock art—wildlife watching meets cultural history.
You climb into the van in Jackson Hole when the air is still sharp and the Tetons wear a milk-thin cloud like a crown. The highway yawns north; sagebrush slides by in waves. For eight to ten hours you trade the town’s tourist bustle for a patchwork of high-country ridgelines, river flats and ochre rock faces that have been bearing witness to human stories for centuries. By midmorning a group of bighorn rams stands like marble sketches along a distant ridge, their backs lit in low sun. Later, a quiet canyon holds panels of petroglyphs so crisp they seem to be speaking in the same plain, direct language as the landscape.
Trail Wisdom
Binoculars over Zoom
Bring mid-power binoculars (7–10x) to scan distant ridgelines—many wildlife sightings are far off and best observed with optics.
Dress in Layers
Togwotee and passes can be cold and windy even in summer; pack a windproof layer and hat for sudden temperature swings.
Respect Rock Art
Do not touch petroglyphs or add marks; photograph from a distance and follow your guide’s instructions at cultural sites.
Food & Hydration
Carry a refillable water bottle and light snacks; the tour includes a restaurant lunch but having water on hand is critical for hikes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Togwotee Pass overlooks—short pullouts with spectacular Teton frames
- •Small interpretive exhibits at the National Bighorn Sheep Center in Dubois
Wildlife
Bighorn sheep, Moose
Conservation Note
The area supports active bighorn sheep conservation programs; visitors should stay on trails, pack out waste, and avoid disturbing wildlife to support ongoing recovery efforts.
The petroglyphs visited are attributed to Indigenous peoples of the Wind River Valley, including ancestors of the Eastern Shoshone; they mark travel routes, hunting areas, and sacred places.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migration and newborn wildlife, Early wildflowers
Challenges: Snow at higher passes, Variable road conditions
Late spring brings newborn elk and active birds, but lingering snow can make some stops chilly or muddy—dress for changeable conditions.
summer
Best for: Peak accessibility, Long daylight for photography
Challenges: Crowds in Jackson, Afternoon thunderstorms
Summer offers the most consistent access to petroglyph sites and bighorn habitat; start early to avoid heat and storms.
fall
Best for: Elk rut and vivid foliage, Fewer tourists
Challenges: Cooler mornings, Shortening daylight
Autumn is prime for wildlife activity and color—expect crisp air and excellent light for mountain vistas.
winter
Best for: Snow-blanketed scenery (from a distance)
Challenges: Road closures, Most tours suspended
Winter brings stunning snowy scenes but limited access; this specific tour usually runs late spring through fall.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Binoculars (7–10x)Essential
Essential for spotting distant bighorn and scanning ridgelines.
Layered Jacket (windproof)Essential
Protects against cold pass winds and sudden temperature drops.
Sturdy Hiking ShoesEssential
Supports short hikes over uneven talus and rocky approaches to viewpoints.
Sun Protection (hat, SPF)
Open valley and high-elevation sun can be intense—protect skin and eyes.
Common Questions
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No—sightings depend on animal movement and weather. Guides maximize opportunities by timing stops, but wildlife is never guaranteed.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes—children who can tolerate a full day in a vehicle and short hikes will enjoy it; check with the operator about any age restrictions.
Are petroglyph sites open to the public?
Many petroglyph sites are accessible but require respectful behavior: stay on designated approaches and do not touch the panels; some sensitive sites may be closed or view-only.
What should I bring for lunch?
Most tours include a restaurant lunch in Dubois; bring snacks and water for the vehicle and any personal dietary needs.
Is there cell service along the route?
Cell service is patchy outside of towns like Jackson and Dubois—download maps and let someone know your plans if you need reliable connectivity.
Do I need a park pass for Grand Teton?
Yes—Grand Teton National Park charges entrance fees; confirm whether the tour covers park entry or if you need to pay separately.
What to Pack
Binoculars for wildlife viewing; Layered windproof jacket for pass winds; Sturdy hiking shoes for short rocky approaches; Water and snacks to stay fueled during long daylight hours
Did You Know
The Teton Range began uplifting roughly 9 million years ago, making it relatively young geologically and responsible for the dramatic, steep profiles you see today.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early-season or shoulder-month departures for fewer crowds; confirm what's included (lunch/entry fees) before you go; bring cash or card for small museum purchases; download offline maps for Togwotee and Wind River valleys
Local Flavor
After the tour, head back to Jackson for elk burgers and local beers at a brewpub, stroll the Town Square’s wooden arches and galleries, or try a bakery breakfast at The Bunnery—Dubois also offers rustic diners and local interpretive exhibits if you want a quieter, small-town finish.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Jackson Hole Airport (JAC); Typical departure: Jackson town center; Driving distance to Dubois: ~1.5–2 hours from Jackson; Cell service: patchy outside towns; Permits: Grand Teton entrance fee may apply—confirm with operator
Sustainability Note
These petroglyphs are irreplaceable cultural resources—do not touch panels, stay on maintained approaches, and pack out all trash; support local conservation by visiting the National Bighorn Sheep Center and following wildlife viewing distances.