8 Hour Combination Snowshoe & Wildlife Viewing in Grand Teton National Park

Explore the wild beauty of Grand Teton National Park with this 8-hour combination tour that seamlessly blends snowshoeing and wildlife viewing. Priced at $349 per person, this adventure offers an immersive look into the park’s diverse ecosystems, geology, and animal inhabitants. The tour departs from Jackson Hole at 8:00 am, led by knowledgeable guides who make every moment engaging and informative. With a perfect 5.0-star rating from 49 reviews, this experience has earned high praise for its expert guides, varied wildlife sightings, and the balance of active exploration and relaxed wildlife viewing. It’s suitable for most travelers, though families with children under 8 are advised to book a private tour for better flexibility.

While the group size is limited to 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience, some may find the 8-hour duration demanding, especially in cold weather. The inclusion of lunch, snacks, snowshoes, and all essential gear makes this package convenient for those looking to maximize their time in the park. The only extra costs are the $20 park entrance fee unless you already have a valid pass.

Key Points

• Two-in-One Adventure: Combines snowshoeing in the backcountry with wildlife viewing from a safari-style vehicle.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ben and Rob receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot wildlife.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes lunch, snacks, drinks, snowshoes, trekking poles, gaiters, and backpacks.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see elk, bighorn sheep, moose, deer, coyote, fox, eagles, and swans.
• Flexible Options: The tour can be customized for private groups to suit different energy levels.
• Easy Accessibility: Meeting point is conveniently located at 210 N Cache St, Jackson.

Starting Point and Timing in Jackson Hole

The tour begins at 8:00 am at 210 N Cache St, Jackson, WY. It ends back at the same meeting point, offering a full day of adventure in the park. The early start allows guests to enjoy the cool morning air and the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals are most active. The full 8 hours include time for snowshoeing, wildlife pursuit, and a relaxed lunch, making for a well-paced experience.

Snowshoeing in Grand Teton’s Backcountry

The first half of the tour involves snowshoeing through the snowy landscapes of Grand Teton. Guides lead you into the backcountry, where you’ll learn about winter ecology and snow science while searching for animal tracks and signs. The group option offers a leisurely pace, perfect for those who prefer a relaxed walk, while private tours can be tailored for more active participants or families with children.

Guests are provided with high-quality snowshoes, trekking poles, and gaiters, ensuring comfort and safety. The terrain is suitable for most levels, and in private bookings, guides can accommodate any energy level, making this experience accessible for many.

Wildlife Viewing in a Safari-Style Vehicle

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to wildlife viewing. Riding comfortably in a safari-style rig, guides take you across the park to spot animals in their natural habitat. The tour offers ample time for photography and discussion, with guides sharing insights about the flora, fauna, and geology of the area.

Wildlife sightings often include bighorn sheep, elk, moose, deer, coyotes, foxes, eagles, and trumpeter swans. The guides are skilled at locating animals, even in winter conditions, and are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge. The vehicle’s design ensures a comfortable, close-up viewing experience, ideal for observing elusive animals.

Food and Refreshments Included

The tour makes a point to include breakfast beverages like coffee and tea, as well as a lunch picnic that travelers can enjoy amidst scenic surroundings. Snacks and bottled water are also provided throughout the day, keeping guests energized for the active portions of the tour.

The lunch stop offers a chance to relax and take in the views, making the day feel balanced between activity and rest. The inclusion of food and drinks adds convenience, removing the need to bring along extra supplies.

Park Entry and Additional Costs

The tour price does not include the $20 park entrance fee, which is valid for 7 days. If participants already have a valid park pass, they simply need to bring it along. If not, the guide can assist with purchasing a pass during the tour. This straightforward process avoids surprises and ensures everyone can access the park without hassle.

How the Tour is Structured and Paced

The tour balances active snowshoeing with relaxed wildlife observation. The first half involves guided snowshoeing over scenic trails with opportunities to learn about winter ecology. This segment is conducted at a leisurely pace in the group option, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

The afternoon’s wildlife pursuit is more relaxed, with the guide leading you to wildlife hotspots in a comfortable vehicle. The entire day is designed to maximize wildlife encounters while allowing time for photography, discussion, and rest.

Guides and Personalities

Guides like Ben, Rob, and Bucky stand out for their friendliness, expertise, and ability to spot wildlife. Their enthusiasm and knowledge significantly enhance the experience, with reviews praising Rob’s skill in weather and cloud manipulation for scenic views. The guides often lead discussions on local ecology and animal behavior, enriching the outdoor experience.

Accessibility and Private Bookings

While most travelers can participate, families with children 8 and under are encouraged to book private tours for better flexibility and comfort. Private options can be customized to suit specific energy levels and interests, making this activity accessible for a wider range of guests.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The tour requires good weather; in case of poor conditions, the activity may be canceled, with the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if weather or plans change unexpectedly.

Grand Teton Snowshoe & Wildlife Viewing: An Authentic Winter Adventure

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines physical activity with wildlife observation, making it ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The expert guides and all-inclusive amenities ensure a comfortable, engaging day in the stunning landscape of Grand Teton.

While the 8-hour duration demands some stamina, the combination of snowshoeing and wildlife watching keeps the experience varied and rewarding. The small group size guarantees personalized attention, and the flexible private tours cater to families or those with specific needs.

If you enjoy learning about the environment, photographing wildlife, and exploring snowy landscapes, this tour delivers on all counts. For those seeking an active, scenic day in one of Wyoming’s most beautiful parks, this experience stands out as a carefully curated, high-quality option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes snowshoes, trekking poles, gaiters, backpacks, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and beverages.

How long is the snowshoeing activity?
The snowshoeing occurs in the morning, with the exact duration not specified, but generally part of the half-day before wildlife viewing.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Sightings often include elk, bighorn sheep, moose, deer, coyote, fox, eagles, and trumpeter swans.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but for kids 8 and under, a private tour is recommended for flexibility.

What gear do I need to bring?
All essential gear is provided, including snowshoes, gaiters, trekking poles, and backpacks. Just dress warmly and comfortably.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour begins. Full refunds are available if canceled in time.

Do I need a park pass?
Yes, the $20 entrance fee is not included unless you already have a valid pass. The guide can assist with purchasing if needed.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, private tours can be tailored for different energy levels and interests.

Where does the tour start and end?
Starts and ends at 210 N Cache St, Jackson, with the entire day dedicated to exploring the park.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The group option is at a leisurely pace, suitable for most fitness levels, with private options available for more active participants.

This 8-hour combination tour in Grand Teton National Park offers a rewarding blend of winter adventure and wildlife discovery, guided by experts who make every moment memorable. Ideal for those looking to engage actively with nature and enjoy scenic beauty in a small-group setting.