National Elk Refuge

National Elk Refuge is an outdoor activity in Jackson, WY. Cost: free. Elk typically visible mid-December through early April.

532 N Cache St · Jackson, WY

Why you should go…

The National Elk Refuge was set aside in 1912 and spreads across more than 24,700 acres on the edge of Jackson. From mid-December to early April, thousands of elk winter here, and horse-drawn sleigh rides take you out among the herd. You may also spot bighorn sheep, trumpeter swans, bald eagles and bison. In summer, walk or cycle the multi-use pathway or drive the Refuge Road at sunset.

#wildlife refuge
#elk viewing
#sleigh rides
#wildlife watching
#birding

What's around here?

The closest stops to National Elk Refuge, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

Sightseeing
Iconic
Jackson Town Square
Free
Walk under four arches built from elk antlers at the corners of Jackson's downtown park and civic gathering place.
0.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing
Nightlife
Quirky Fun
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
Free
Sit on a saddle at the bar and catch live music and dancing at a Western saloon on Jackson's Town Square.
0.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Nightlife
Museums
Rainy-Day Pick
National Museum of Wildlife Art
Under $25
A hillside museum of animal art above the National Elk Refuge, with indoor galleries and an outdoor sculpture trail.
2.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums
Sport & Outdoor
Iconic
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
$50+
Ride the 100-passenger aerial tram up 4,139 vertical feet to ski, hike or eat waffles at the summit.
7.8 mi awayMore like this
Sport & Outdoor
Iconic
Grand Teton National Park
$25–$50
Hike, boat and watch for moose and elk beneath the jagged Teton Range and its glacial lakes.
12 mi awayMore like this
Sport & Outdoor
Outdoor Adventure
Jenny Lake
$25–$50
Hike or ride the shuttle boat across a glacial lake to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point below the Teton peaks.
19 mi awayMore like this