Best of Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari Tour

The Best of Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari Tour offers an engaging glimpse into the winter life of one of America’s most stunning natural areas. Priced at $305 per person, this 8-hour tour combines wildlife spotting, informative guiding, and a unique sleigh ride into the National Elk Refuge. With a small group limit of 8, the experience emphasizes personal service and plenty of opportunities for close-up wildlife viewing. The tour departs daily from early morning, with pick-up included, making it convenient for visitors staying in Jackson Hole.

The tour’s high rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 93 reviews reflects its consistent quality and the satisfaction of travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and well-organized outings. While the sleigh ride is available from mid-December to late March, some reviews note that weather can occasionally impact the experience. This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts eager to see deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and bison in their winter habitats, along with eagles, swans, and wolves.

Key Points

• 8-hour winter wildlife safari in Jackson Hole, priced at $305 per person
• Small group experience limited to 8 guests for personalized service
• Visits to National Elk Refuge, Antelope Flats, and Grand Teton National Park
• Includes lunch, snacks, binoculars, spotting scopes, and a guided tour
• Horse-drawn sleigh ride into the National Elk Refuge (available mid-Dec. to late Mar.)
• Flexible stops based on weather and road conditions

Discover the Wildlife of Jackson Hole’s Winter Landscape

This tour is specially designed to showcase Jackson Hole’s winter wildlife against a snowy backdrop. The National Elk Refuge stands out as a highlight, especially with the sleigh ride that takes guests into the middle of North America’s largest elk herd. This ride is particularly popular from mid-December through late March, offering a chance to witness elk in their natural winter environment.

The itinerary balances guided stops at scenic locations such as Antelope Flats and Grand Teton National Park, with opportunities for wildlife observation. Guides share insights about the area’s geology, history, and animal behavior, making each stop both educational and visually rewarding. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, with plenty of chances for questions and close-up viewing.

The Stops: Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

The National Elk Refuge is often the first stop, where the guide explains the significance of the area and the winter habitat of the elk herd. If weather permits, the group then visits Antelope Flats, a wide-open area perfect for spotting deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.

Next, the tour takes guests into Grand Teton National Park, offering breathtaking mountain vistas alongside wildlife sightings. The stops here are contingent on road conditions and weather, but they promise stunning scenic views and additional chances to observe local wildlife.

The Sleigh Ride: A Winter Wonderland Experience

When available, the horse-drawn sleigh ride is the tour’s standout feature. It transports participants into the middle of the elk herd amid snow-covered landscapes, creating a magical winter scene. This activity typically runs from mid-December through late March, and it is praised for its unique perspective on wildlife.

The sleigh ride is a calm, scenic journey that complements the safari’s daytime wildlife viewing. Some reviews note that weather can affect the ride’s availability, so travelers should check in advance if this feature is essential to their experience.

The Experienced Guides and Personal Service

A key strength of this tour is the professional naturalist guides. Review comments highlight guides like Jeffrey, Dave, and Grant Bell for their depth of knowledge, engaging storytelling, and humor. They are skilled at engaging both adults and children, ensuring everyone remains engaged and excited.

With a maximum of 8 guests per vehicle, the group enjoys personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions freely. Guides are adept at spotting wildlife and explaining animal behaviors, making the experience both fun and educational.

Included Amenities and Practical Details

The tour package includes light breakfast, snacks, bottled water, and a quality lunch at The Silver Dollar in Jackson. Travelers are provided with UHD binoculars and spotting scopes to enhance wildlife viewing, which are especially helpful for spotting distant animals.

Transportation is comfortable, with hotel or lodging pickup and drop-off included, simplifying logistics for visitors. The tour’s timing starts early at 7:00 AM daily, allowing ample daylight for wildlife exploration.

Value for Money and Booking Considerations

At $305 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines scenery, wildlife, and cultural insights. The small group size adds significant value, ensuring a more personal and flexible experience. Many reviews emphasize the expertise of the guides and the quality of the wildlife sightings, which justify the price.

Travelers are advised to book approximately 68 days in advance, given the popularity of the tour, especially during peak winter months. The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of weather changes or unforeseen circumstances.

Final Thoughts: An Immersive Winter Wildlife Adventure

This Best of Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari stands out as an ideal option for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife fans visiting Jackson Hole in winter. The combination of guided outdoor exploration, scenic stops, and the unique sleigh ride creates a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of winter in the Tetons.

While weather can occasionally influence certain activities, the guides’ expertise ensures that guests enjoy a fruitful wildlife safari regardless. The personalized nature of the tour makes it particularly suitable for those who value close-up wildlife encounters and expert explanations.

For anyone eager to experience Jackson Hole’s winter wildlife in a comfortable, informative setting, this tour offers strong value and lasting memories. It’s a not-to-miss option for visitors seeking a blend of adventure, scenery, and wildlife observation during the colder months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the sleigh ride available year-round?
No, the sleigh ride is only offered from mid-December to late March, depending on snow conditions.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes lunch, snacks, bottled water, UHD binoculars, spotting scopes, a professional guide, and hotel pickup. The sleigh ride is included when available.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 8 guests per vehicle, providing a small, personal experience.

Are there age restrictions?
The minimum age for wildlife safaris is 8 years old. Private safaris have no age minimum.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The tour requires good weather, and activity may be canceled or rescheduled due to snow or road conditions.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 68 days in advance, especially during peak season, to secure availability.