National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides

National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides (operated by Bar T 5) are horse-drawn sleigh trips into the National Elk Refuge in winter, when thousands of elk gather on the refuge during their seasonal migration. Departures run from the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center at 532 N Cache Street. The right fit is winter travelers wanting close wildlife viewing without long hikes, families and multi-generation groups, and photographers willing to dress warm. The wrong fit is anyone outside the winter season; the program runs roughly December 20 through early April and is dependent on snow and refuge conditions.

Inside the operation

Horse-drawn sleighs that travel into the elk herd on the National Elk Refuge with experienced guides who share information about the elk, the migration, and the broader Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Sleighs depart from the Visitor Center at the north end of Cache Street; the operation pairs with the National Wildlife Art Museum and the Visitor Center as a winter package activity. Daily operation 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the season, every day except Christmas. Heated waiting area, blankets on sleighs.

Why people book here

Three reasons. First, wildlife proximity. Sleighs travel directly into the herd; you see elk at close range without disturbing them, which no other Jackson winter activity matches. Second, the format works for any age. Multi-generation families can ride together, including grandparents and young kids who couldn't manage a hiking-or-snowshoe-based wildlife day. Third, the broader visitor-center pairing. The Wildlife Art Museum is across the parking lot; pairing the two creates a half-day winter wildlife experience that rivals more demanding outdoor programs.

Bar T 5 Sleigh Rides: Activities & Wildlife Viewing Highlights

Reserve ahead, especially for winter holiday weeks (Christmas through New Year, MLK weekend, President's Day). Tickets sell at the Visitor Center; arrive 20-30 minutes before your departure time. Dress for cold: insulated layers, hat, gloves, warm boots; the sleighs are exposed and the refuge runs cold even when town is mild. Blankets are provided on the sleigh. Plan 60-90 minutes total for the visit including ticket purchase and the ride itself.

Things to weigh

Three honest tradeoffs. First, this is winter-only. Second, weather can shorten or alter rides during severe-cold or storm days. Third, peak-week timing produces longer waits at the ticket counter; arrive early.

Heads up

For families with young kids, pair the sleigh ride with a stop at the National Museum of Wildlife Art across the highway from the Visitor Center. Two hours of indoor art on the wildlife you just saw at close range, plus the museum's hot-chocolate and warm spaces, makes for a balanced winter morning. Time the museum first if it's a particularly cold day so you warm up before the sleigh.

Worth it?

For close-range elk viewing on horse-drawn sleighs at the National Elk Refuge during winter, this is the right call for almost any visitor type. Reserve, dress for cold, and pair with the nearby Wildlife Art Museum for a complete winter wildlife morning.

FAQ

What's the season?

Roughly December 20 through early April, depending on snow and refuge conditions.

Are tickets sold at the Visitor Center?

Yes, at 532 N Cache Street.

How cold does it get?

Sleighs are exposed; expect refuge temperatures (often 10-20 degrees colder than town). Dress accordingly; blankets are provided.

Is the program family-friendly?

Yes. Suited to all ages.