Visitors to the National Elk Refuge and adjacent Bridger-Teton National Forest are reminded that they are in bear country. Adhering to the rules and regulations associated with recreating in bear country are required. Read more about local bear safety.
Visit Us
Activities
Visitors to the National Elk Refuge may experience their Refuge through a number outdoor recreational opportunities.
Trails
The National Elk Refuge is highly regarded as an iconic place to see wildlife. This is largely due to the limited number of trails and public access areas on the Refuge.
The main trail on the Refuge is the nearly 6 mile, paved pathway that runs along beautiful wetland and grassland habitat. The trail connects to several paved trails in Grand Teton National Park.
The trail is open from May 1 - October 31. During the remainder of the year the trail is closed to protect migrating and wintering wildlife.
Cycling is the most popular activity along the pathway. Visitors who are looking for a full day adventure can bike from the National Elk Refuge to Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park. This 40 mile roundtrip cycle is a stunning way to experience the Refuge and Grand Teton without the use of a vehicle.
Visitors who are looking for a shorter adventure can stroll along the beginning of the pathway, which departs from the north lawn of the National Elk Refuge & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center. Flat Creek meanders under the pathway, allowing for opportunities to spot cutthroat trout, river otters, and various ducks.
In order to minimize negative wildlife impacts, dogs are not allow on the pathway. Please adhere to all safety and regulation signs posted along the pathway.
Other Facilities in the Complex
Jackson National Fish Hatchery
Visit the the Jackson National Fish Hatchery today! Located on the National Elk Refuge, the Hatchery has many visitor opportunities for you and your family. During your visit you can tour the fish hatchery production site, picnic near a scenic pond, and go fishing (Wyoming fishing license is required).The Hatchery is open daily from 10AM - 4PM (excluding federal holidays).
The Jackson National Fish Hatchery is located 3.5 miles north of the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center on HWY 191.
Locations
The Refuge Road is the official entrance onto the National Elk Refuge. The road travels along open meadows, rolling hills, and rocky cliffs. Wildlife watching and photography are popular activities along the road. From autumn through spring, look for Bighorn Sheep on Miller Butte. There is no fee to visit the Refuge.
From the town square of Jackson, drive east on Broadway Avenue until you reach a sign that reads "National Elk Refuge." From there, you are on the Refuge Road.
- From December 1 - April 30, the Refuge Road is open for 3.5 miles for public access. Visitors are reminded to obey all posted wildlife closure signs and remain on the road or in designated pull-outs at all times.
- From May 1- November 30, the Refuge Road is open to the National Forest access roads, Flat Creek Road and Curtis Canyon Road. Road maintenance is minimal after the Twin Creek subdivision. Visitors are reminded to obey all posted wildlife closure signs and remain on the road, in designated pull-outs, or on Forest Access trails at all times.
The visitor center offers beautiful views onto the National Elk Refuge as well as indoor interpretive displays. Surrounding wetland and grassland habitat allows for excellent bird and wildlife observation year round.
Refuge staff are onsite to answer your questions help you explore the National Elk Refuge.
Visitor Center partner agencies: Grand Teton National Park, Bridger-Teton National Forest, Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce, & Grand Teton Association.
Formerly named Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center.