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The National Elk Refuge lies northeast of the town of Jackson, Wyoming and directly south of Grand Teton National Park.
The Refuge Road
Many visitors view wildlife from this road, whether it be on a leisurely walk after work or a drive out to Miller Butte to see wintering bighorn sheep. This road offers an westerly view of the town of Jackson and the Tetons as well as a great view of wintering elk.
Miller Butte
This butte, centered on the east side of the refuge and viewed from the Refuge Road, offers glimpses of bighorn sheep and in recent years was home to denning mountain lions.
Flat Creek Bird Viewing Pull-out
The Flat Creek ponds directly north of the visitor center offer many opportunites to view waterfowl and water birds throughout the year. In winter, trumpeter swans can often be seen foraging. In the summer, secretive marsh birds like the common snipe can be heard in these marshes.
HWY 26 Auto Pullout
Winter Sleigh Rides
From mid-December through laerly April, daily horse-drawn sleigh rides (or wagons, if weather conditions require them) offer visitors a close-up look at the elk herd. Sleigh rides begin at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, at 532 North Cache. Visitors can also learn about elk and management of the refuge through a slide show, videos, exhibits, and by talking with refuge personnel. Sleigh riders are encouraged to bundle up since they are likely to be exposed to very cold temperatures and chilling winds.
The winter season, between November and April, is the best time to view elk and other wildlife on the refuge. To protect refuge wildlife and their habitats, public use activities are primarily confined to the main, unpaved roads on the refuge. Paved turnouts on the west side of the refuge along U.S. Highway 26 (leading to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks) are provided for viewing and photographing refuge wildlife.
Limited hiking opportunities exist on the refuge, and there is no overnight parking or camping. Camping is available in nearby national parks and national forests. Elk hunting and trout fishing are popular activities on portions of the refuge during designated seasons. Brochures and pamphlets containing regulations and information on the refuge and its wildlife are available at the visitor center and at the refuge headquarters.
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National Elk Refuge
PO Box 510
Jackson, Wyoming 83002
307.733.9212
Fax 307.733.9729 (Fax)
Email: nationalelkrefuge@fws.gov
National Wildlife Refuge System
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Wildlife viewing pportunities abound at National Elk Refuge. Whether you are avid birder, photographer or an amater naturalist, plenty of opportunities exist to see wildlife throughout the |
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