Jackson Winter Wildlife Safari: Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride & Igloo Dinner
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires standing/sitting in cold conditions for extended periods.
Overview
Ride a horse-drawn sleigh across the National Elk Refuge, watch Tetons-lit wildlife through spotting scopes, then warm up with a gourmet igloo-camp dinner—an immersive winter evening near Jackson, Wyoming.
Jackson Winter Wildlife Safari: Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride & Igloo Dinner
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By the time the van turns off Cache Street and the town lights shrink behind you, the Tetons have already reasserted themselves—dark, serrated against a winter sky. Snow plains spread out like pages of a ledger; the guides move with a quiet certainty, unpacking scopes and folding wool blankets. This is not a staged tableau but the slow, patient work of finding animals in their element: elk milling on the refuge, bison outlined in white, the flash of a bald eagle as it rides a river thermal.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Temperatures usually sit well below freezing; base layers, insulated mid-layers and a windproof outer shell keep you comfortable during long observation periods.
Protect batteries and lenses
Cold drains camera and phone batteries—carry spares in an inner pocket and bring lens cloths to manage condensation.
Eat and hydrate before departure
A hot meal is included, but bring a snack and water—staying fueled helps with circulation in the cold.
Use provided optics but bring your own
Binoculars and a spotting scope are provided but a personal telephoto or binoculars improves close-up viewing and photos.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bison
- Moose
History
The National Elk Refuge was established in 1912 to protect migrating elk herds that winter in the valley; the refuge remains a managed habitat and important cultural landscape.
Conservation
Tours operate under refuge guidelines—stay on the sleigh route, follow guide instructions, and support wildlife by minimizing noise and packing out waste.
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Adventure Hotspots in Jackson
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated parka
A windproof, down or synthetic parka is vital for staying warm during long observation intervals.
winter specific
Cold-weather boots with traction
Waterproof insulated boots and microspike-compatible soles keep feet dry and steady on icy surfaces.
winter specific
Layered base and mid-layers
Merino or synthetic base layers plus fleece or wool mid-layers trap heat and wick moisture.
winter specific
Camera with telephoto lens
A 200–400mm lens captures distant wildlife and the Tetons; cold-weather battery management is essential.