A few years ago we took the horse-drawn sleigh ride onto the 25,000-acre National Elk Refuge near Jackson, WY.  It was the economy trip, $12 each if I remember correctly.  It was fun.  These rides run from December to March or April, depending on the snow and when the elk start going back into the higher elevations.  The ride goes through right the elk. They don’t pay much attention to the wagon and its load.    

After some brutal Wyoming winters, they started feeding elk for their survival.  This also helped keep the elk off the ranches. 7000-9000 elk winter on the Refuge which was established in 1912. There are almost 1600 acres of open water and marshlands, 47 different mammals, and nearly 175 species of birds.    I love the elk but thoroughly enjoy seeing the birds and the marshlands, as well.

Wildlife conservation is at the heart of what makes the National Elk Refuge unique and unparalleled in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem but says it can’t continue in the same way because of a deadly disease that spreads when elk congregate. Hopefully, they will figure out how to preserve these beautiful creatures and their surroundings.

Presently, there are all kinds of variations to the rides, from the economy, now $18 @, and up.  Pick-up service is available, dinner excursions, etc.  The beautiful Visitor’s Center at the edge of Jackson Hole and National Wildlife Art Center, both have the current info.  Don’t miss this chance to see some of Wyoming’s best.  It’s a good addition to next winter’s bucket list.

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