From art galleries showcasing wildlife art, to the elk antler arches on the Town Square, Jackson Hole has a deep connection with wildlife. When asked, most visitors voice a desire to see wildlife during their stay. However, wildlife can be difficult to pinpoint, regardless of the time of year. Still, you can increase your odds of successfully spotting wildlife during your visit to Jackson Hole this fall by following some tips informed by Jackson Hole EcoTour Adventures and its seasoned guides.
Timing
Fall is a season of migration, mating, and preparation for the winter ahead. The elk rut is one of the most exciting events, with the sound of bugling bulls echoing through Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Mid-September through early October is prime time to witness this behavior as males compete for mates. According to EcoTour Adventures guide Ryan Kempfer, “Dawn and dusk are prime times for wildlife sightings.” Animals like moose, elk, and bears are often more visible during these hours as they forage in preparation for winter.
Areas of Interest
As the snow begins to blanket the higher elevations, many animals, including elk, pronghorn, and mule deer, move to lower valleys. The National Elk Refuge is a hotspot for elk viewing in late fall, with over 5,000 elk migrating there as winter approaches. This area also attracts predators such as wolves and coyotes, making it a prime location for those interested in observing predator-prey dynamics.
Don’t forget to look to the skies, as fall is an excellent time for birdwatchers. Raptors such as bald eagles and hawks migrate from northern regions to spend winter in Jackson Hole. Keep an eye out for these majestic birds near Kelly Warm Springs or Flat Creek on the National Elk Refuge.
Learn from a Local
A guided wildlife tour provides not only a chance to see animals but also an opportunity to learn about the ecology of the area. Jackson Hole EcoTour Adventures offers a variety of wildlife adventures in the Jackson Hole, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone Ecosystems and many of their guides have a background in the natural sciences. While no wildlife guide will ever guarantee an animal sighting, they will take you to wildlife hotspots and share their wealth of knowledge about the animals they see. Ben Tow, a wildlife biologist guide at EcoTour Adventures, says, “Our tours focus on understanding the bigger picture, connecting wildlife behavior to the greater ecosystem, so guests leave with a deeper appreciation of what they see.” This holistic approach makes guided experiences richer and more informative.
Know & Follow Safety Regulations
One of the key tenets of wildlife viewing is respecting the animals and their space. Fall and early winter are critical times for animals to build fat reserves and prepare for the harsh winter months. Observers should always use binoculars or spotting scopes to ensure animals are not disturbed, helping them conserve energy for survival. Wildlife guide Drew Overholser emphasizes the importance of patience and respect. He suggests, “Allow wildlife the space to move naturally. Bring binoculars to observe from a distance so you don’t disturb their routines, especially during critical times like the elk rut or bear feeding season.”
Both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks require you to stay at least 25 yards away from most wildlife and 100 yards away from predators. Should you see wildlife from the road, make sure to use an appropriate roadside pull-off for parking. Do not stop or interfere with traffic by parking in the middle of the road.
Species Specific Tips
- Wolves: Fall provides better opportunities to spot wolves in the wild, particularly as they follow elk herds into the valley. Wolves are most active in early mornings, and with some luck, you might witness a pack interacting or hunting.
- Bighorn Sheep: November is the best time to witness the bighorn sheep rut. Jackson Hole Eco Tour Adventures points to Miller Butte on the National Elk Refuge as a prime viewing location for these animals. Here, you’ll witness the dramatic head-butting contests between rams as they compete for dominance during the mating season, all within close proximity to the road. “Similar to wolves, anytime you’re able to see bighorn sheep in the park, it’s a treat. For 90 percent of the year they live 10,000 or more feet up in the high country, so you won’t see them unless you’re a climber above the treeline on some sheer cliff face,” Jackson Hole EcoTour Adventures guide Mark Byall says.
- Bears: Understanding seasonal behaviors is crucial for both safety and successful sightings. Bears, for example, are in hyperphagia (a state of increased feeding) during fall, making them more active as they prepare for hibernation. “Learning about the animals’ seasonal habits helps ensure you’re in the right place at the right time,” says wildlife biologist Rafael Sandoval, who adds that knowledge of animal behavior also aids in staying safe while enjoying the wildlife.
Jackson Hole’s fall wildlife watching opportunities are unparalleled, but it’s crucial to approach with respect and preparedness. Guided tours, such as those offered by Jackson Hole Eco Tour Adventures, provide valuable knowledge and ensure an ethical and safe wildlife viewing experience.
For more information on guided tours and fall wildlife viewing, visit Jackson Hole Eco Tour Adventures’ website.
