Grand Teton National Park – Sunset Guided Tour from Jackson Hole

Key Points

• Price includes park entrance, dinner, and transportation from Jackson Hole hotels
• Duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting at 4:00 pm
• Guided by knowledgeable local guides with a maximum group size of 10
• Wildlife sightings often include bears, bison, elk, moose, eagles, and more
• Stops at iconic locations like Jenny Lake, Mormon Row, and Oxbow Bend
• Binoculars are provided to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities

Overview of the Sunset Wildlife Tour in Grand Teton National Park

This small-group tour offers a focused opportunity to see Grand Teton National Park’s wildlife at sunset. Priced at $189 per person, it includes round-trip transportation from Jackson Hole, park entrance fees, and a dinner option. The tour is designed for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience in a manageable group of up to 10 participants.

The tour departs from Jackson Hole at 4:00 pm, making the most of late afternoon and evening light to catch animal activity and breathtaking views of the Tetons. With expert guides, you’ll explore several key spots, increasing your chances of seeing bears, bison, elk, moose, eagles, and more. The inclusion of binoculars ensures you get a good look at distant wildlife, making this a convenient and enriching experience.

The Convenience of Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off

One of the tour’s strengths is the hotel pickup and drop-off service from Jackson Hole, removing the hassle of arranging transportation. The tour starts promptly at 4:00 pm from a designated meeting point at 250 N Cache St. After the sunset wildlife viewing, the guides return you comfortably to your hotel, allowing you to unwind after an exciting evening in the park.

This arrangement suits visitors who prefer a stress-free experience, especially those staying in Jackson Hole. The round-trip transportation is included in the price, so there’s no need to rent a car or navigate unfamiliar roads.

Exploring Grand Teton’s Iconic Locations

The tour’s itinerary covers several notable sites that showcase the park’s natural beauty and wildlife habitat. The Grand Teton Mountain Range itself offers stunning scenery, with no foothills, allowing the peaks to dominate the landscape. The Mormon Row Historic District features the famous Moulton barns, built in the early 1900s by Mormon homesteaders, providing a picturesque historic backdrop.

Oxbow Bend is a highlight, renowned for its tranquil reflection of Mt. Moran in the Snake River. It’s an ideal spot for wildlife sightings, often hosting white pelicans, trumpeter swans, and various waterfowl. The tour also visits Jackson Lake and the Jenny Lake Overlook, both offering spectacular vistas and opportunities to encounter elk, beavers, and other animals.

The Moose Wilson Road and Gros Ventre Wilderness are included as well, where guides look for larger wildlife like moose, pronghorn, and bison. These stops are carefully chosen for their visual appeal and wildlife activity, making each segment of the tour rewarding.

The Role of the Guide and Wildlife Spotting

Each tour is led by a seasoned guide skilled in locating wildlife and sharing informative commentary. Guides like Sierra, Clara, Katie, Ben, and Dan are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. They explain the behavior and habitats of the animals, adding context to what you see.

The guides actively search for animals and lead you to best vantage points, such as Oxbow Bend, where binoculars are provided. While the timing of wildlife sightings can vary, the guides’ expertise often results in good encounters with bears, bison, elk, moose, and eagles. Some reviews mention close animal encounters, including a black bear with cubs and a moose, making the experience lively and memorable.

The Scenic Beauty of Sunset in Grand Teton

The timing of the tour ensures you witness the park’s scenery at sunset, when the mountain peaks glow with warm light. The Tetons’ jagged silhouette against a colorful sky creates a breathtaking backdrop for wildlife activity and photography.

Guests frequently comment on the spectacular views of Grand Teton as the sun sets, providing an otherworldly atmosphere. The lighting conditions enhance both wildlife observation and photo opportunities, making this tour ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The Included Dinner and Its Menu Options

A notable feature of this tour is the dinner, which adds to its value. The sandwich options include turkey, ham, roast beef, or veggie on wheat or gluten-free bread. Travelers can specify their preferences during booking, ensuring dietary needs are met.

The dinner provides a filling meal after several hours of wildlife spotting, contributing to a comfortable and relaxed experience. The included food is appreciated by many reviews, which mention the quality of the sandwiches.

Practical Information for Planning Your Sunset Tour

The maximum group size of 10 makes for an intimate experience, allowing guides to focus on individual interests and provide personalized attention. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for the evening.

The minimum age is 6 years, making this tour suitable for families with children. For those with children under 6, private tours are available. Booking is recommended well in advance, with an average booking window of 48 days.

The free cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Additional tips include bringing extra layers for changing weather and a camera for capturing wildlife moments.

Who Will Enjoy This Sunset Wildlife Tour?

This tour appeals to nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking an up-close look at wildlife in a stunning mountain setting. The expert guides and carefully chosen stops maximize opportunities for wildlife sightings and scenic views.

Those who value comfort and convenience will appreciate the hotel pickup, included dinner, and binoculars provided. However, individuals seeking early morning or daytime wildlife encounters might prefer a different tour, as this one focuses on sunset viewing.

Comparing This Tour to Other Park Experiences

While this sunset tour emphasizes wildlife at dusk, other tours might focus on geology, history, or different times of day. Its small-group format and all-inclusive pricing make it stand out among options that may not include dinner or transportation.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledge of guides and the quality of wildlife sightings, though some mention that animal encounters can vary depending on season and luck. This tour offers a comprehensive and enjoyable way to experience the beauty and wildlife of the Grand Teton National Park.

This evening adventure provides unmatched views of the Tetons as the sun sets, coupled with the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat. Priced at $189, it offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and comfort. Expert guides, thoughtful stops, and included amenities make this tour a highly recommended choice for those visiting Jackson Hole seeking a relaxing yet exciting evening in the park.