Grand Teton: Wildlife Safari Tour from Jackson Hole

Summary

Wildlife moments in Grand Teton sunrise light, open-air rides and stories from Jackson locals

You’ll set out from Jackson Hole at dawn or dusk with a local guide who knows every wildlife hiding spot in Grand Teton. Expect close-up moments with elk or bison, stops at historic Mormon Row for those classic barn photos, snacks when you need them most, and stories that make the landscape feel alive. It’s not just about what you see — it’s how it feels to be there.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how quiet it was when we rolled out of Jackson Hole — not quite awake, but the air had that cold snap that wakes you up better than coffee. Our guide, Mike (he grew up nearby, knew every bend in the road), handed me binoculars before we’d even left town. “You’ll want these ready,” he said. I didn’t really believe him until we saw our first elk herd just past the park sign. The light was barely there, kind of blueish and soft, and you could see their breath clouding up around them. It smelled like sagebrush and pine needles — not sure why I noticed that so much.

We stopped a lot. Sometimes for bison just standing in the road (they don’t care about your schedule), sometimes because Mike spotted something moving way off — once it was a fox, once a bald eagle perched on this twisted old tree. He told us stories about how people used to homestead here; at Mormon Row we all got out for photos by the barn (the famous one — apparently everyone does it). There was frost on the grass and my shoes got wet but I didn’t mind. Snacks appeared from nowhere — trail mix, sodas, water — which felt like a small miracle because I’d skipped breakfast.

I tried to spot a bear but no luck this time; someone else saw one last week, so maybe next round. Still, seeing moose picking their way through willows felt special enough. Mike explained how the seasons change what you see — spring is for birds (sandhill cranes are weirdly tall), summer gets busy with calves everywhere. He had answers for everything except why the mountains look different every hour — he just shrugged and said “that’s Wyoming.”

By the time we headed back toward Jackson Hole I realized I hadn’t checked my phone once. The Tetons were pink in the morning sun and honestly I wanted to stay out longer. There’s something about being in a small group with someone who knows these roads by heart that makes you feel like you belong here for a second — even if you’re just passing through.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Wildlife safari and historic barn visit

• Depart from Jackson Hole at dawn or dusk
• Explore Grand Teton National Park for wildlife
• Observe elk, moose, bison, bears, and wolves
• Spot birds like eagles, cranes, and hawks
• Learn about park geology and history
• Stop to photograph wildlife and landmarks
• Visit Mormon Row Historic District
• Take photos at T.A. Moulton or John Moulton Barn

Top questions

What animals can I see on this Grand Teton wildlife safari?

You might spot elk, moose, mule deer, pronghorn, bison, bighorn sheep, grizzly and black bears, wolves, eagles, foxes, hawks, owls, and sandhill cranes depending on season.

Is hotel pickup included from Jackson Hole?

Yes—hotel pickup is included for approved Jackson Hole area hotels from November to mid-May.

What kind of vehicle is used for this tour?

An open-air safari vehicle is used June to mid-September (weather permitting); an enclosed heated/air-conditioned vehicle is used mid-September through May.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Yes—snacks plus bottled water and soda are included throughout your wildlife safari tour.

Can children join this tour?

This tour is not suitable for children 5 years old or younger.

Do tours run year-round?

Tours run year-round but some stops like Mormon Row are only accessible March through November due to snow coverage in winter months.

How many people are in each group?

The group size is limited to 10–12 people for a more personal experience.

What’s included

Your day includes transport by open-air safari vehicle in summer or enclosed heated/air-conditioned vehicle in colder months; snacks plus bottled water and soda; use of binoculars or scope; hotel pickup from approved Jackson Hole locations (November–mid-May); plenty of stops for photos and wildlife viewing; all guided by a local naturalist who shares stories along every mile.