National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides
Jackson, Wyoming · Accessibility score 1/5
Address: Jackson, WY
Phone: (800) 344-9453
About
Every winter, the National Elk Refuge outside Jackson, Wyoming becomes home to thousands of elk migrating down from the surrounding mountains. Since 1912, this 24,700-acre refuge has provided critical winter habitat for one of the largest elk herds in North America. The best way to experience it? A horse-drawn sleigh ride right through the herd.
Sleigh rides operate from mid-December through early April, weather permitting, with departures every 20 to 30 minutes between 10am and 4pm daily (closed Christmas Day). Each ride lasts about an hour, carrying visitors across snow-covered meadows where elk gather by the thousands. You'll often get remarkably close to the animals, sometimes within 50 feet, making it an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Tickets are purchased at the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center in downtown Jackson. From there, buses transport visitors to the sleigh departure point on the refuge. Children under 5 ride free. Note that a National Parks Pass is not valid here, as the refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, not the National Park Service.
Beyond the sleigh rides, the refuge offers opportunities to explore on foot, by bike, or by car during other seasons. The surrounding area is packed with world-class attractions, from Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone, making this an ideal stop on a larger Wyoming adventure.
Dress warmly in layers, bring binoculars if you have them, and keep your camera ready. The combination of thousands of elk, crisp mountain air, and the snow-capped Tetons in the background creates a scene that's hard to find anywhere else in the country.
Accessibility
The National Elk Refuge confirms that accommodations for visitors with disabilities are available for the sleigh rides. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the refuge directly at (307) 733-0277 when making reservations to discuss specific accommodations and arrange appropriate assistance.
The ticketing and departure process begins at the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center in downtown Jackson, which serves as a modern facility with standard amenities. Buses transport visitors from the visitor center to the sleigh loading area on the refuge. Contact staff in advance to confirm that the bus transfer and sleigh boarding process can meet your specific needs.
The sleigh ride itself takes place on open, flat terrain across the refuge's snow-covered meadows. The experience is primarily seated, making it accessible for many visitors who may have difficulty with extended walking. However, the winter conditions, uneven ground at loading areas, and the process of boarding the sleigh may present challenges for some visitors.
For visitors with sensory disabilities, the ride offers a rich multi-sensory experience including the sounds of elk calls and the feel of cold mountain air. Staff guides provide narration during the ride. Those with hearing difficulties should let staff know so they can be seated closer to the guide.
For the most current and detailed accessibility information, contact the refuge directly at (307) 733-0277 before your visit. Staff can walk you through each step of the experience and help plan accommodations to make your visit comfortable.
More accessible places in Wyoming
- National Museum of Wildlife Art (Jackson)
- Snow King Mountain (Jackson)
- Grand Teton Scenic Float Trips (Jackson)
- Grand Teton National Park (Moose)
- Devils Tower National Monument (Devils Tower)
- Fort Laramie National Historic Site (Fort Laramie)
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