Jackson Hole is home to one of the most remarkable wildlife ecosystems on Earth. From the rugged, towering peaks of the Tetons to the sweeping valleys of Yellowstone, every bend in the road offers a chance to encounter North America’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. A guided wildlife tour is the best way to explore this wild landscape, blending expert interpretation, responsible viewing practices, and once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities.
At Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris, our naturalist guides lead small groups through the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem on professionally guided tours that combine education, conservation, and adventure.
Why Wildlife Tours in Jackson Hole Are So Special
The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem: A Living Wild Landscape
Few places on Earth rival the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem for wildlife diversity. Here, protected lands connect mountain ranges, river valleys, and vast meadows where species thrive much as they did centuries ago. On any given day, visitors may see grizzly bears, black bears, moose, elk, bison, pronghorn, bald eagles, and wolves.
Wildlife tours provide an intimate way to experience this natural wonder, offering insight into each species’ seasonal behaviors, migrations, and survival strategies.
Expert Naturalist Guides & Small-Group Experiences
A guided safari with Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris means you’ll travel with experienced naturalists and wildlife photographers who understand animal behavior, ecology, and the best times and places for sightings.
With small groups, professional-grade optics, and comfortable vehicles, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, personalized experience and deeper interpretation than typical sightseeing tours.
Year-Round Opportunities for Adventure
Wildlife is active in every season, and each brings its own rewards. Spring reveals newborn animals and returning migratory birds. Summer offers long days and vibrant landscapes. Fall showcases the elk rut, bear foraging, and brilliant foliage. Winter brings quiet solitude and the rare chance to track wolves across snowy valleys in Yellowstone.
What You’ll See on a Wildlife Tour
Iconic Wildlife Species to Watch For
The Greater Yellowstone region supports an incredible variety of wildlife. Depending on the season, you may encounter:
- Bison herds grazing across open meadows
- Elk bugling during the autumn rut
- Moose feeding along riverbanks
- Pronghorn antelope sprinting across sage flats
- Grizzly and black bears foraging for berries or roots
- Gray wolves roaming the northern valleys of Yellowstone
- Bald eagles and trumpeter swans around alpine lakes
Every tour is different, no two days in the wild are ever the same.
Scenic Landscapes That Shape the Experience
Your tour may traverse iconic points in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks all offering spectacular backdrops. From the mirror reflections of Oxbow Bend to the vast Hayden Valley, the landscapes are as unforgettable as the wildlife that inhabit them.
Tour Types and Durations
Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris offers a variety of options to suit your travel style:
- Half-Day Grand Teton Wildlife Safari – Perfect for families or first-time visitors.
- Full-Day Grand Teton Wildlife Safari – A full immersion into the park’s habitats and wildlife.
- Best of Yellowstone Tour – Explore geothermal wonders and Yellowstone’s famous wildlife.
- Photography Workshop Safari – Learn field techniques from professional photographers.
- 3-Day Winter Wolves & Wildlife Safari – Track wolves, elk, and foxes in Yellowstone’s winter wilderness in an extended, immersive, multi-day adventure.
Each tour is designed to maximize sightings while prioritizing safety, comfort, and conservation.
How to Choose the Right Wildlife Tour for You
Match Your Interests and Travel Style
Whether you’re a family seeking an educational adventure, a couple looking for scenic photography, or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, there’s a wildlife safari to fit your goals. Private tours allow for flexibility and customization, while small-group safaris create shared experiences with like-minded travelers.
Consider the Season and Wildlife Activity
- Spring (April–June): New life emerges; bears reappear, moose calve, birds return.
- Summer (July–August): Ideal for longer safaris and favorable weather.
- Fall (September–October): Peak for the elk rut, active bears, vibrant colors.
- Winter (November–March): Wolf tracking and wildlife photography in snow-covered valleys.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
Not all tours in the valley are created equal. When booking, ask about guide qualifications, group size, optics, and vehicle type. Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris limits group sizes for a quieter, more intimate experience and provides professional-grade binoculars and spotting scopes on every trip.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing & Conservation
Respecting Wildlife
Responsible tours follow park regulations to ensure the safety of both wildlife and visitors. Always observe from a safe distance: at least 100 yards for bears and wolves and 25 yards for elk, moose, and bison.
Never feed wildlife or block the road for a photo opportunity; small acts of respect protect the integrity of this ecosystem.
Stewardship in Action
Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris is a permitted operator in both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Our team practices Leave No Trace ethics, supports local conservation partners, and educates guests about ongoing preservation efforts. Every safari helps foster stewardship of wild lands and species.
What to Bring on Your Safari
Wear layers! Mountain weather changes quickly. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and a camera if you wish, though your guide will have optics available. Most importantly, bring curiosity, patience, and a sense of wonder.
Why Choose Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris
A Legacy of Professionalism, Stewardship, and Adventure
Locally owned and operated, Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris has earned national recognition for excellence in guided wildlife experiences. Our safaris are grounded in three core values: Professionalism, Stewardship, and Adventure, ensuring every guest gains a deeper appreciation for the wild places we explore.
Book a Wildlife Safari
Experience the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem with expert guides who live and breathe the wild.
Join us for a Grand Teton Wildlife Safari, Yellowstone Wildlife Safari, or Winter Wolves & Wildlife Tour and witness nature at its most inspiring.
FAQs
What is the best time of year for wildlife tours in Jackson Hole?
The best time depends on what you hope to see. Spring and fall are peak wildlife seasons, with active bears, migrating elk, and abundant birdlife. Winter is excellent for wolf tracking, while summer offers full access to both Grand Teton and Yellowstone.
Which national parks are included on your wildlife tours?
Most tours explore Grand Teton National Park, while full-day and multi-day safaris can extend into Yellowstone National Park. Private custom tours can be tailored to your interests and timeframe.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No ethical operator can guarantee wildlife sightings. Animals are truly wild! However, our guides’ expertise and real-time field communication maximize your chances for exceptional encounters.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Bring water, sunscreen, and a camera. Binoculars and spotting scopes are provided, so you can focus on the experience.
How long are wildlife tours and when do they start?
Half-day tours typically last 4–5 hours, while full-day tours run 8–12 hours. Most depart early morning for the best light and wildlife activity.
