National Elk Refuge

Explore the 25,000 acres of land that one of the largest herds of elk migrate to each winter!

Visit the place with one of the highest concentration of elk in the country at the National Elk Refuge. Founded in 1912 to protect the habitat and the animals that reside among the 24,700 acres of meadows and marshes here. During the winter months, around 7,500 elk make their way here from Yellowstone and other surrounding areas and create a truly spectacular sight. Horse-drawn sleigh rides are offered through the refuge during this season for an excursion you definitely will not forget.

The refuge is the gateway from Jackson to Grand Teton National Park and the Bridger-Teton National Forest. While the winter is a truly special time to visit with the migration of the elk and sleigh rides, the summer is equally as magical in its own way. Tons of other wildlife species call the refuge home, such as bison, bighorn sheep, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, wolves, mule deer, and bears. Visitors are welcome to hike, take bicycle rides, fish, and birdwatch at the refuge, too. The Historic Miller Ranch also has a great visitor center to help you get informed and oriented with the region. The National Elk Refuge is an extraordinary place to visit all year long and offers unique experiences depending on the season. Don’t forget your camera and sense sheer wonder for the amazing elk and other wildlife that migrate here each year!