Wildlife conservation is at the heart of what makes the National Elk Refuge unique and unparalleled in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Conservation of native species and their habitats is the core management mission of the Refuge.

Visit Us

A herd of elk in a snowy field and craggy mountains in the backdrop.
Image Details
Bull elk on the National Elk Refuge with views of Grand Teton National Park.

We invite you to discover the 24,700+ acres of grasslands, wetlands, and forests conserved on the Refuge which support a diverse assembly of plants and animals. The Refuge is a premier location for wildlife watching and photography, as well as hunting, fishing, and educational opportunities. Through conservation efforts, the Refuge serves to benefit the people of today and future generations. 

Plan Your Trip

  • Are you visiting the National Elk Refuge in the winter? 
  • Looking for a narrated tour of the National Elk Refuge during your visit? Please follow the below links to listen to our available tours. Tours are currently available on Spotify.

Where Are The Elk?

Elk are typically visible on the Refuge from mid-December through early April.  In late spring, elk begin migrating off the Refuge toward their summer ranges, following the receding snow line up to higher elevations in Grand Teton National Park and the Bridger Teton National Forest. From October through December, deepening snow cause the elk to seek food and shelter at lower elevations in Jackson Hole.

Read the Elk Story

Location and Contact Information

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      Learn about the mission and history of the National Elk Refuge. 

      What We Do

      Wildlife conservation is at the heart of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

      Projects and Research

      Refuge staff lead and collaborate on many different research and monitoring projects that pertain to wildlife conservation.