Jackson Hole Guide

Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris & Viewing Tours

Discover Yellowstone & Grand Teton's iconic animals on expertly guided wildlife safaris and viewing tours from Jackson Hole.

25+ tours
From $$125
Half-day to Full-day

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, sits at the doorstep of two of America's most celebrated national parks: Grand Teton and Yellowstone. This unique geography makes it an unparalleled base for wildlife safaris and viewing tours. Imagine the thrill of spotting a grizzly bear foraging on a mountainside, a herd of bison crossing the road, or a majestic bald eagle soaring overhead, all within their natural habitat. These excursions are designed to maximize your chances of encountering the region's diverse and iconic fauna, guided by experts who know the best locations and the animals' habits. Whether you're an avid photographer seeking that perfect shot, a nature enthusiast eager to learn about the ecosystem, or simply looking for an awe-inspiring adventure, Jackson Hole's wildlife tours offer something for everyone. Beyond the popular residents like elk, moose, bears, and wolves, you might also encounter pronghorn antelope, coyotes, various bird species, and if you're exceptionally fortunate, even elusive mountain lions. The sheer abundance and accessibility of wildlife here are remarkable, transforming a simple drive into a potential gallery of natural wonders. These tours provide a safe and educational way to experience this wild landscape, ensuring you get the most out of your visit while respecting the animals and their environment.

Featured Wildlife Safaris & Viewing Tours

Discover our top picks for wildlife safaris & viewing in Jackson Hole

Horseback Riding with Grand Teton Views in Jackson Hole
From $130
Free Cancellation

Scenic Horseback Rides with Stunning Grand Teton Views in beautiful Jackson Hole. Join our experienced guides for a horseback adventure through the Bridger-Teton National Forest, offering the closest and most breathtaking views of the Grand Teton Mountains. Ride through aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and rugged trails as you climb higher into the untouched Wyoming wilderness. Enjoy wildlife sitings including mule deer, elk, and moose just to name a few. We offer 90-minute, half-day, and cookout dinner rides just like the cowboys. Loading and guidance will take on average 30 minutes but may take over an hour depending upon the experience level of guests. Guests are in 100 percent control of their horses at all times.

4.5(916)
1h 30m
View Details
Snake River Scenic Float Trip with Teton Views in Jackson Hole
From $115
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Take a relaxing and fun 3-hour scenic raft tour on the Snake River from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Stunning scenery, wildlife, and information on the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem will be the major points of interest on this tour. A perfect raft trip for families, senior citizens, first time river users, bird and wildlife enthusiasts.

4.9(864)
3h
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Best of Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari Tour
From $305
Free Cancellation

Thousands of mule deer, elk, moose, big horn sheep and bison migrate into the valley in search of food each year along with coyotes, fox, bald and golden eagles, swans, and even packs of wolves. This gathering of wintering wildlife makes winter one of the best times to view wildlife in Jackson Hole! After a full morning in the field we will enjoy lunch together at a local eatery before heading back out for the afternoon. When available, we will take a horse drawn sleigh through the National Elk Refuge into the middle of the largest wild elk herd in North America. Following the sleigh ride, we will head back into the field to spot more wildlife. **Sleigh rides are optional.

4.9(93)
8h
View Details
From Jackson Hole: Yellowstone Old Faithful, Waterfalls and Wildlife Day Tour
From $329

This small-group tour is a fantastic way to observe wildlife as well as take in Grand Teton's beauty and Yellowstone’s numerous geyser basins. We will be making stops at Oxbow Bend, Old Faithful geyser, Yellowstone Lake, Hayden Valley, Fountain Paint Pots and Mud Pots, West Thumb Geyser Basin, the Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, as well as several other geyser basins. Yellowstone National Park’s rich history, geology, wildfires and wildlife will be discussed in detail throughout the tour. Wildlife that is often observed on this tour are bison, grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, moose, elk, eagles, mule deer, pronghorn, and coyotes. We will offer many stops throughout the tour for guests to get out of the vehicle and observe the different wildlife viewing opportunities with the binoculars and scope that we provide, and to walk the various boardwalks we stop at. This tour will include a picnic style lunch that will be served by your guide.

5.0(1,557)
13h
View Details
Grand Teton Wildlife Safari in a Enclosed or Open-Air Vehicle (season dependent)
From $159

Explore Grand Teton National Park in search of wildlife on this exhilarating eco- tour. Traveling at dawn or dusk from Jackson Hole will give us the best chances to show you the most wildlife in Grand Teton National Park, as this is the prime feeding time for many of the animals. Sightings may include grizzly and black bear, wolves, moose, bison, elk, eagles, bighorn sheep, fox and so much more! Your naturalist guide will ensure your enjoyment and safety, teach you all about the park’s geology and ecology, and stop along the way to let you take photos of your gorgeous surroundings. Guests traveling late spring to early fall (approximately June 1st-September 10th *Weather dependent*) will discover the park in our customized and exclusive open-air safari-style vehicle. Guests traveling mid fall, winter, and late spring will discover the park in an enclosed, heated and air-conditioned vehicle. This small-group tour is limited to 10-12 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.

4.9(1,209)
4h
View Details
Half Day Grand Teton Wildlife Safari Tour
From $170
Free Cancellation

Explore the National Elk Refuge, home to thousands of wintering elk, hundreds of bison, bighorn sheep and an array of bird life before venturing into Grand Teton National Park. Jackson Hole’s wintering wildlife is abundant with opportunities to see bison, elk, deer, moose, fox, coyote, bald eagle, trumpeter swans, and if we’re lucky, wolves. If time allows we might also choose to stop at the Jackson Hole Visitor Center or the new Moose visitor center in Grand Teton National Park. The guides at Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris will make every effort to showcase as many highlights as possible, and will structure the day around making your experience a memorable one. They will take current road conditions, weather, seasonality, and your personal interests into consideration as they move through the park.

4.9(258)
4h
View Details
Half Day Group Sunrise Wildlife Safari
From $168.95
Free Cancellation

Experience the Tetons at their most magical. On our Sunrise Tour, you’ll be out early—when the air is crisp, the mountains are glowing, and wildlife begins to stir. We’ll guide you to the best sunrise spots like Schwabacher Landing and Oxbow Bend, where calm waters mirror the pink-lit peaks of the Teton Range. It’s quiet, serene, and simply unforgettable. As the park wakes up, so do the animals. This is prime time to see moose, elk, bison, foxes, eagles, and even bears, moving through the landscape in the soft morning light. With our high-powered scopes and expert tracking, you won’t miss a thing. Expect a relaxed pace, personal attention, and insights from a local guide who knows where to go—and when. Whether you're a photographer or just love wild places, this tour sets the tone for an incredible day. Tour includes: ✔️ Early-morning pickup from Jackson Hole ✔️ Small-group or private options ✔️ Wildlife viewing gear provided

4.8(154)
4h
View Details
Best of Jackson Hole Wildlife Private Safari Tour
From $497.5
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Thousands of mule deer, elk, moose, big horn sheep and bison migrate into the valley in search of food each year along with coyotes, fox, bald and golden eagles, swans, and even packs of wolves. This gathering of wintering wildlife makes winter one of the best times to view wildlife in Jackson Hole! After a full morning in the field we will enjoy lunch together at a local eatery before heading back out for the afternoon. When available, we will take a horse drawn sleigh through the National Elk Refuge into the middle of the largest wild elk herd in North America. Following the sleigh ride, we will head back into the field to spot more wildlife. **Sleigh rides are optional.

5.0(59)
8h
View Details
Half-Day Wildlife Safari Tour in Grand Teton National Park
From $170
Free Cancellation

We begin this wildlife tour by heading north along the western boundary of the National Elk Refuge to Grand Teton National Park. Here we will travel along the southern park roads watching for wildlife and stopping frequently for photo-ops. The guides at Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris will make every effort to showcase as many highlights as possible, and will structure the day around making your experience a memorable one. They will take current road conditions, weather, seasonality, and your personal interests into consideration as they move through the park.

4.8(341)
4h
View Details
PRIVATE Grand Teton Wildlife Safari, Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride & Lunch
From $475
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Join a naturalist guide for this expedition to explore Grand Teton National Park and the surrounding areas scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. 1 - Search for and learn about moose, elk, bald eagles, coyote, wolves, mule deer, bighorn sheep and more. Your guide providing color stories and narration. Use of optics included. 2 - Picnic lunch, served in the field, with hot soup or chili. 3 - Next join a horse drawn sleigh ride into the National Elk Refuge for a close-up view of part of the world’s largest elk population. Thousands of elk and other wildlife species spend the winter months in southern Jackson Hole. You will search for and commonly viewed elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer, bald eagles, coyote and more. Your guide will manage the team of sturdy horses and provide interesting information and answer questions. 6 hours

4.9(9)
6h
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Private Grand Teton Wildlife Safari Tour
From $547.5
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Our full day Grand Teton Wildlife Safari explores the wildlife, geology, and natural history of Grand Teton National Park. The guides at Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris will make every effort to showcase as many highlights as possible, and will structure the day around making your experience a memorable one. They will take current road conditions, weather, seasonality, and your personal interests into consideration as they move through the park. Private tours allow children younger than 8 years old to participate.

5.0(70)
8h
View Details
Grand Teton Wildlife Safari Tour
From $305
Free Cancellation

Our full day Grand Teton Wildlife Safari explores the wildlife, geology, and natural history of Grand Teton National Park. The guides at Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris will make every effort to showcase as many highlights as possible, and will structure the day around making your experience a memorable one. They will take current road conditions, weather, seasonality, and your personal interests into consideration as they move through the park.

5.0(118)
8h
View Details
Best of Yellowstone - Guided National Park Safari Tour
From $345
Free Cancellation

Join an experienced naturalist guide on a wildlife safari tour of Yellowstone National Park with a focus on the geology, wildlife, and natural history of Yellowstone National Park. The guides at Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris will make every effort to showcase as many highlights as possible, and will structure the day around making your experience a memorable one. They will take current road conditions, weather, seasonality, and your personal interests into consideration as they move through the park. This wildlife safari will make frequent stops as opportunities for wildlife viewing present themselves.

4.9(178)
10h
View Details
Best of Yellowstone Private National Park Safari Tour
From $597.5
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Enjoy a private wildlife safari tour of Yellowstone National Park. Your group will focus on the geology, wildlife, and natural history of Yellowstone National Park while customizing the safari around your specific areas of interest. The entire day will be suited to your schedule and areas of interest by your experienced naturalist guide. The guides at Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris will make every effort to showcase as many highlights as possible, and will structure the day around making your experience a memorable one. They will take current road conditions, weather, seasonality, and your personal interests into consideration as they move through the park.

5.0(120)
10h
View Details
Half-Day Grand Teton Wildlife Safari Private Tour
From $375
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

We begin this wildlife photo tour by heading north along the western boundary of the National Elk Refuge to Grand Teton National Park. Here we will travel along the southern park roads watching for wildlife and stopping frequently for photo-ops. Wildlife we frequently encounter on this trip includes bison, elk, deer, moose, pronghorn, (aka antelope), fox, coyote, bear, bald eagle, trumpeter swans, and if we’re lucky, wolves. If time allows we might choose to stop at the Jackson Visitor Center or the new Moose visitor center in Grand Teton National Park. The guides at Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris will make every effort to showcase as many highlights as possible, and will structure the day around making your experience a memorable one. They will take current road conditions, weather, seasonality, and your personal interests into consideration as they move through the park.

5.0(63)
4h
View Details

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Why Choose Wildlife Safaris & Viewing in Jackson Hole?

Exceptional Wildlife Density

Jackson Hole is situated in one of the richest wildlife regions in North America, offering high chances of seeing iconic animals.

Stunning Scenic Backdrops

Tours are set against the dramatic peaks of the Teton Range and the vast landscapes of Yellowstone, providing breathtaking scenery.

Expert Local Guides

Knowledgeable guides use their expertise to locate animals and share insights into their behavior and the park ecosystems.

Photographer's Paradise

These tours are ideal for capturing incredible wildlife and landscape photography, often with optimal viewing conditions.

Safe & Responsible Viewing

Tours prioritize ethical wildlife viewing, maintaining safe distances and respecting the animals' natural behaviors.

Diverse Animal Encounters

Beyond the 'big five,' expect to see a wide variety of mammals, birds, and other fascinating creatures native to the region.

Types of Wildlife Safaris & Viewing in Jackson Hole

Grand Teton National Park Wildlife Tours

Focuses on the abundant wildlife found within Grand Teton National Park, known for its scenic vistas and accessible animal populations. Tours often explore areas like Oxbow Bend, Mormon Row, and Antelope Flats.

Elk, moose, pronghorn, and bison sightingsPhotography opportunities with Teton backdropFocus on riparian and meadow habitatsHalf-day and full-day options available

Yellowstone National Park Wildlife Safaris

These extended tours venture into Yellowstone, America's first national park, offering a chance to see a wider array of species including grizzly bears, wolves, and bison. Trips often include visits to Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley.

Higher probability of spotting bears and wolvesExplore iconic Yellowstone landscapesFull-day tours with packed lunchesEarly morning or late evening departures for prime viewing

Photography-Focused Wildlife Tours

Tailored for photographers, these tours are designed to maximize photographic opportunities. Guides often have photography backgrounds and know the best times and locations for light and animal activity.

Emphasis on lighting and compositionSmaller group sizes for better accessExtended time at prime viewing spotsGuidance on camera settings and techniques

Sunrise & Sunset Wildlife Excursions

Capitalize on the 'golden hours' when wildlife is often most active. These shorter, specialized tours focus on the early morning or late evening periods for heightened chances of sightings and beautiful light.

Peak animal activity timesIdeal for softer, more dramatic lightingOften shorter duration, but highly productiveGreat for capturing unique behaviors

What to Expect on Wildlife Safaris & Viewing Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 4 hours (half-day) to 10-12 hours (full-day, especially for Yellowstone). Some specialized photography tours might extend beyond typical daylight hours.

Weather

Weather in Jackson Hole and the national parks can change rapidly. Expect cool mornings and evenings, even in summer. Layers are essential, as are rain gear and sun protection.

Group Size

Group sizes can vary significantly. Some tours are small, intimate experiences with 4-6 people, while others might accommodate up to 15-20 guests in larger vans or minibuses.

What's Included

Most tours include transportation in a comfortable vehicle, services of a knowledgeable naturalist guide, park entrance fees (if not already covered), and often binoculars or spotting scopes. Some full-day tours include a packed lunch or snacks.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are usually in Jackson, WY, often at designated tour operator pick-up locations or central hotels. Some operators offer hotel pick-up and drop-off services within the town.

Costs

Prices vary based on tour length, park visited, and group size. Expect to pay from around $125 USD for a half-day Grand Teton tour to $300+ USD for a full-day Yellowstone or photography-focused excursion.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book in advance, especially during peak summer and fall seasons. Wildlife tours are popular and fill up quickly.

2

Dress in layers. Mountain weather is unpredictable, and you'll want to be comfortable from a chilly dawn to a warmer afternoon.

3

Bring high-quality binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens. While guides provide scopes, personal equipment enhances the experience.

4

Be patient. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The guides are experts at finding animals, but patience is key for observation.

5

Listen to your guide. They are trained to spot animals and understand their behavior, and they will ensure safe viewing practices.

6

Consider an early morning or late evening tour. These times often offer the best chances for active wildlife, especially predators.

7

Pack snacks and water, even if a meal is included. Having your own provisions ensures you're comfortable throughout the duration.

8

Be prepared for bumpy roads. Some of the best wildlife viewing areas might involve driving on unpaved or uneven terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the best time of year for wildlife viewing in Jackson Hole?

A: Spring (late April to June) offers newborn animals and active migration. Summer provides consistent sightings, and fall (September to October) is spectacular for fall colors and elk rut, though bears are busy preparing for hibernation. Each season has its unique charm and animal behavior.

Q:Will I definitely see a grizzly bear or wolf?

A: While guides are experts at finding wildlife, sightings of specific animals like grizzly bears or wolves are never guaranteed. These are wild animals, and their movements depend on many factors. However, Jackson Hole and its surrounding parks offer some of the highest chances in North America to see them.

Q:Can I do my own wildlife spotting without a tour?

A: You can certainly drive through the parks yourself and keep an eye out for wildlife. However, tours offer significant advantages: expert knowledge of animal locations and habits, access to spotting scopes, and guidance on safe viewing distances, which greatly increases your chances and safety.

Q:What should I do if I see an animal on a tour?

A: Always follow your guide's instructions. Generally, this means staying in the vehicle, keeping a safe and respectful distance, not feeding the animals, and keeping noise levels down. Your guide will ensure everyone has a good view without disturbing the wildlife.

Q:Are there tours that go into both Grand Teton and Yellowstone?

A: Yes, many full-day tours are designed to cover significant portions of both parks. These longer excursions allow you to experience the distinct ecosystems and wildlife populations of each park, though they require a substantial time commitment.

Q:Is it possible to book a private wildlife tour?

A: Absolutely. Many tour operators offer private or custom wildlife tours. These are ideal for families, small groups, or those with specific photography or itinerary needs, offering a more personalized and flexible experience.

Q:What kind of animals can I expect to see?

A: Common sightings include elk, bison, pronghorn antelope, deer, moose, coyotes, black bears, and various bird species like eagles and osprey. With luck and expert guidance, you might also see grizzly bears, wolves, foxes, or bighorn sheep.

Don't Miss the Perfect Jackson Hole Experience

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Why Visit Jackson Hole?

Experience the grandeur of the Tetons, offering unparalleled mountain adventures and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Discover Jackson Hole's charming Western town square, a gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter, with Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's legendary challenging terrain.

Immerse yourself in the rich cowboy heritage and vibrant arts scene found throughout Jackson Hole's historic downtown.

Savor incredible farm-to-table dining and enjoy authentic Western hospitality at local ranches and restaurants.

Connect with the wild spirit of the American West in a breathtakingly beautiful and rugged landscape.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Jackson Hole experiences dramatic seasonal shifts. Summers are warm and sunny with cool nights, ideal for outdoor activities. Winters are cold and snowy, perfect for skiing, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. Spring and fall offer transitional weather, with potential for snow in early spring and late fall, and vibrant foliage in autumn.

Best Months

Consider June through September for warm weather and access to all park activities, or December through March for prime skiing conditions at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. September offers beautiful fall colors and fewer crowds.

Peak Season

Summer (June-August) and winter ski season (December-March) are peak times in Jackson Hole, bringing the best weather for their respective activities but also higher crowds and prices. Expect vibrant energy and full amenities during these months.

Off Season

Spring (April-May) and fall (October-November) are Jackson Hole's off-seasons. You'll find fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, though some services may be limited, and weather can be unpredictable, with lingering snow in spring and early snow possible in fall.

Plan Your Jackson Hole Trip

Transportation Tips

Navigating Jackson Hole is easiest with a car, especially for exploring the national parks. Rental agencies are at the airport. Within the town of Jackson, walking is pleasant, and the free START Bus system connects town to Teton Village and surrounding areas, making getting around Jackson Hole convenient for many. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but can be limited. Consider the local bus for budget-conscious travel between key points.

Car Rental Deals in Jackson Hole

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Where to Stay

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Best Hotel Deals in Jackson Hole

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Ready to Explore Jackson Hole?

Discover the best tours and activities in Jackson Hole with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.