Grand Teton: Sunset Wildlife Tour from Jackson Hole with Dinner

Summary

Sunset wildlife moments, lakeside quiet, and old barns in the Tetons

You’ll ride from Jackson Hole into Grand Teton as evening falls, scanning for moose and bison with a local guide who knows every bend. Expect quiet moments by Oxbow Bend’s glassy water, time among weathered barns at Mormon Row, and a simple picnic dinner as sunset lights up the peaks. It’s not about perfection—it’s about feeling small in all the best ways.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you step out of the van and the air just smells different? That’s how it started for us in Grand Teton—sort of piney but also like cold river water. Our guide, Mark (he grew up in Jackson), handed us binoculars right away. He didn’t waste time with speeches; we were already scanning for bison before I’d even zipped my jacket. There’s this hush out there, except for birds and the crunch of gravel under your boots. I kept thinking, “Wow, this is really happening.”

We stopped at Oxbow Bend first. The water was so still it looked fake—like someone had ironed it flat—and a couple of pelicans drifted by, totally unbothered. Mark pointed out Mt. Moran reflected in the river and told us about a fox den nearby (we didn’t see them, but honestly just knowing they were close made me weirdly happy). Later at Mormon Row, those old barns look exactly like every photo you’ve seen but somehow more stubborn in person. A breeze kicked up dust and I tried to imagine living here a hundred years ago—probably colder than I’d survive.

Somewhere near Pilgrim Creek we lucked out: a moose munching willows right by the road. Everyone got quiet except for one little kid who whispered “whoa” so loud his mom laughed. The light started turning gold over Jackson Lake and dinner came out—sandwiches (I picked turkey) that tasted way better than they should have after a few hours outside. Not fancy food but real food, you know?

I didn’t expect to feel so small—in a good way—watching the Tetons go dark while we drove back along Gros Ventre Road. Mark kept an eye out for elk or maybe a bear (no luck that night), but honestly I was just watching the last bit of sun on those mountains. Still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Wildlife and scenic tour in Grand Teton

• Depart from Jackson Hole
• Drive along Gros Ventre Road for wildlife
• Visit Mormon Row Historic District
• Explore Oxbow Bend for wildlife viewing
• Stop at Jackson Lake for views
• Visit Jenny Lake area
• See Pilgrim Creek wildlife habitat
• Enjoy views of Teton Mountain Range
• Picnic dinner included

Top questions

How long is the Grand Teton sunset tour from Jackson Hole?

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including stops and dinner.

Is hotel pickup included for this Grand Teton wildlife tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from Jackson Hole accommodations.

What kind of wildlife might we see on this sunset tour?

You may spot bears, elk, bison, moose, eagles, foxes, beaver, pelicans, swans, and herons.

Are meals provided during the Grand Teton evening trip?

Yes—a picnic-style dinner sandwich is included with options like turkey, ham, roast beef or veggie on wheat or gluten-free bread.

Is this guided tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels; infants can ride in strollers and kids aged 6+ are welcome.

Which sights are included on this Grand Teton sunset wildlife trip?

You’ll visit Oxbow Bend, Jenny Lake area, Pilgrim Creek area, Elk Ranch Flats, Mormon Row Historic District and Jackson Lake.

Does this Grand Teton day trip operate year-round or only seasonally?

The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for Wyoming’s changing weather.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Jackson Hole hotels or lodges; entry fees to Grand Teton; use of binoculars to help spot wildlife; guidance from a local expert; plus a picnic sandwich dinner (with several options) before heading back as dusk settles over the mountains.