The National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole Wyoming was established by an Act of Congress in 1912 It is one of 568 National Refuges. Prior to 1912 elk migrated through this area for centuries. One end of the refuge is located near the Jackson Visitor Center. It is here in the winter that tickets can be bought for their sleigh ride to see the elk. From the visitor center and van takes you to where the sleighs are located. The sleighs take you into the refuge to where the elk are located. You can not get out of the sleigh and binoculars are a real asset. Blankets are available for use. With wind and temperatures in the 20's or lower, blankets are useful. The mini -vans run every 20 minutes during the season.
As a National Refuge, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, wildlife photography, education and interpretation are acceptable uses of the refuge. There is an observation deck at the visitor center.
The refuge is 6 miles wide and 10 miles long. Predominate trees are aspen, blue spruce, willow and Douglas fir. The topography of the land consists mostly of marsh ta and meadows with some rocky outcrops. The elevation ranges from 6,300-7,200. There are roads that will take you into the refuge. Dawn and dusk are key times if you want to see wildlife. Most other times in the day you are likely to see nothing. Elk, pronghorn sheep, mule deer, moose, coyote, wolves, bear and a large assortment of birds can be seen at times. read more