National Elk RefugeAbout National Elk Refuge
The National Elk Refuge is a wildlife refuge in the Jackson Hole valley of Wyoming created to conserve winter habitat for elk. It was established in the early 20th century to protect migrating elk populations.
Large wintering elk herds gather on the refuge in colder months, often visible from roads and viewing areas around the edge of the refuge. Seasonal guided sleigh rides provide close-up viewing of concentrated elk herds and are a common way for the public to observe the animals in winter.
The refuge was created following growing concern over elk starvation and habitat loss in the Jackson Hole area and has since functioned as a managed winter range with habitat protection and supplemental feeding in severe winters. Management has also addressed interactions between wildlife and nearby communities.
Located immediately north of the town of Jackson in northwestern Wyoming, the refuge sits on the valley floor between the town and the Teton Range, adjacent to Grand Teton National Park.
- Established purpose: Established in 1912 to protect wintering habitat for elk and managed to support large winter elk herds through seasonal habitat management and supplemental feeding.
- Best time to visit: Winter is the best time for wildlife viewing; commercial sleigh rides across the refuge operate in colder months to view elk concentrations close to Jackson, Wyoming.
Nearby Attractions to National Elk Refuge
Best Time to Visit National Elk Refuge
For National Elk Refuge, visit in winter (December-March) to reliably see large elk concentrations, or in summer for hiking and broader wildlife viewing.
Weather & Climate near National Elk Refuge
National Elk Refuge's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -16°C to 28°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -17° - -4° | -16° | 54 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -15° - 0° | -13° | 37 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -10° - 5° | -7° | 34 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -5° - 11° | -1° | 34 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 0° - 17° | 6° | 51 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 3° - 22° | 13° | 45 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 6° - 28° | 17° | 29 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 5° - 27° | 16° | 33 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 0° - 22° | 11° | 35 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | -5° - 14° | 2° | 34 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -10° - 4° | -8° | 47 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -16° - -3° | -15° | 48 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to National Elk Refuge
The National Elk Refuge borders the town of Jackson, Wyoming. From downtown Jackson it’s only a few minutes’ drive north via US‑26/US‑89/US‑191 to the refuge area and nearby visitor facilities. From Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) allow roughly 15-25 minutes driving time to reach the refuge area (times vary with winter conditions); many local tour operators and sleigh rides operate from the Jackson area near the refuge in winter.
Tips for Visiting National Elk Refuge
- Visit in winter (roughly December-March) when elk gather in large numbers on the refuge and guided sleigh tours from Jackson Hole are operating - book sleigh rides well in advance, they sell out.
- Start at the refuge visitor center in Jackson to get current herd‑movement updates and recommended viewing spots; the center's staff can advise on best times and dress for sleigh departures.
- Plan early‑morning or late‑afternoon visits for active wildlife viewing along refuge edges - many day‑visitors miss quieter viewing times when animals are most visible.