Wildlife Expeditions of Teton Science Schools

Wildlife Expeditions is the guided wildlife-tour arm of Teton Science Schools, a Jackson Hole non-profit, running biologist-led tours in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks year-round. The right fit is travelers wanting a real naturalist-led wildlife day rather than a generic park tour, families with kids interested in animals and ecosystems, and amateur photographers and birders looking to be put in the right places at the right time. The wrong fit is anyone wanting a quick scenic drive or a cocktail tour; this is an educational program first.

Discover Wildlife, Education & Winter Safari Tours

A non-profit naturalist tour program tied to the broader Teton Science Schools mission. Tours are led by professional biologists rather than driver-guides; the conversation is genuinely educational. Summer tours cover Grand Teton and Yellowstone in open-air vehicles seeking elk, moose, bison, bears, eagles, and the broader park wildlife. Winter tours run in heated vehicles plus snowcoach options into Yellowstone's geothermal interior. Half-day, full-day, and multi-day formats. Year-round operation.

Why people book here

Three reasons. First, the guide quality. Biologist guides know animal behavior, ecology, and current sightings; you see more, learn more, and understand the park more than a generic tour. Second, the non-profit model. Tours support the Teton Science Schools' education mission; revenue funds K-12 and adult education programs. Third, the access. Tour vehicles cover ground a single rental car cannot, and guides know dawn and dusk wildlife windows that DIY visitors usually miss.

Other similar businesses

The Jackson wildlife-tour peer set includes Scenic Safaris (broader tour offerings including UTV and snowmobile), Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris (dedicated wildlife tours), and a handful of smaller operators. Wildlife Expeditions's lane is the educational, biologist-led non-profit format; for travelers who prioritize learning over photography volume, this is the strongest match.

How to plan a tour

Book ahead, especially for peak summer (July-August) and winter holiday weeks. Bring binoculars (rentals available), camera, sunscreen, layers, and a willingness to start early; dawn wildlife windows mean 5-6am pickups for the strongest summer tours. For multi-day tours, accommodation is sometimes included; confirm at booking. Hotel pickup is available from most Jackson and Teton Village lodging.

Things to weigh

Two honest tradeoffs. First, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed; biologist guides put you in the right places, but the animals decide. Second, early-morning starts are the norm; sleeping in is not part of the format.

Local note

For first-time Grand Teton wildlife visitors, book a half-day Wildlife Expeditions tour on day one of your trip rather than later. The guide gives you a framework for understanding the park's ecology that shapes the rest of your week; you'll see more on subsequent self-guided days because you know what to look for and where. Pair with the Yellowstone full-day later in the trip when the legs are warmed up.

What it comes down to

For biologist-led wildlife tours in Grand Teton and Yellowstone with an educational focus and a non-profit mission behind them, Wildlife Expeditions of Teton Science Schools is the right call. Book early, plan for the early starts, and use the guide knowledge as the asset.

FAQ

Are these naturalist-led?

Yes. Tours are led by professional biologists.

Are they year-round?

Yes. Summer and winter formats with seasonal vehicles.

Is this a non-profit?

Yes. Wildlife Expeditions is part of Teton Science Schools, a Jackson Hole non-profit.

Where do tours depart?

Pickup is available from most Jackson and Teton Village lodging.