Where Do They Go? Winter Migration in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons

A moose standing in a grassy field with large snowy peaks in the backdrop.

Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons reveal an isolated, quiet peace during the winter months with fewer visitors exploring the parks. But amidst that peaceful solitude lies one of nature’s most dramatic struggles: harsh, cold winters that push wildlife into patterns of survival. Whether driven by the search for food, shelter, or simply livable conditions, winter migration in Greater Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons National Parks is both essential and awe-inspiring.

Elk Winter Migration From the Summer Range to the National Elk Refuge

In the lower 48 states, the Jackson Hole elk herd undertakes one of the longest elk migrations in the United States each year. With 9,000-13,000 elk in this herd, witnessing this migration is truly a spectacular sight. Individual elk travel anywhere from 39 to 168 miles, with some journeying from as far south as Yellowstone National Park to reach their winter destination: the National Elk Refuge. Located in the Jackson Hole Valley of Wyoming, the National Elk Refuge is 24,700 acres in size. 

The migration typically begins between October and December when heavy snowfall pushes elk down from their high-elevation summer ranges. As snow deepens, elk descend into the sheltered valleys of Jackson Hole, seeking the refuge’s 24,700 acres of critical winter habitat. Established in 1912, the National Elk Refuge serves as the only remaining winter range for elk near Jackson Hole, making it a vital and protected resource for thousands of animals. 

As late spring arrives, usually beginning in March or April, elk start migrating off the refuge and returning to their summer ranges. These ranges are typically in higher elevation areas like Lamar Valley, Madison Canyon, or Cascade Meadows. Tracking the receding snow lines helps the elk move up to higher elevations in the Grand Tetons, the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and into southern Yellowstone. Before springtime, our winter tours are some of the best times to see elk through their migrational trek toward new seasonal territory.

An elk with large antlers stares into the distance while grazing in the grasslands.

Migration vs. Adaptation: Different Survival Strategies

In Greater Yellowstone, winter survival isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some animals migrate hundreds of miles to escape deep snow and find accessible food, like the elk. Bison, on the other hand, exhibit remarkable adaptations, having evolved to thrive where they are. They can endure conditions in place that would prove fatal to most other creatures.

Pronghorn and bighorn sheep have split survival strategies. Pronghorns undertake a very long trek, traveling nearly 150-200 miles along the ancient “Path of the Pronghorn” from Grand Teton National Park to the Green River Basin near Pinedale. Bighorn sheep, on the other hand, take a more modest approach. The Gros Venture herd, for example, makes a 15-mile descent from high summer ranges to Miller Butte on the National Elk Refuge.

Pronghorn sitting peacefully in the grass, observing something in the distance.

When it comes to moose and wolves, they’re known as homebodies, making only subtle seasonal shifts rather than long-distance migrations. Moose are relatively scarce in the Jackson Hole area, with the population estimated at only 400 to 500 individuals. They favor habitats dense with willow shrubs, which provide their primary food source. As a result, they remain in these rich areas, shifting from wetlands in the summer to open sagebrush flats during the winter months. Wolves, being territorial, only go on the move when hunting for prey. In winter, elk make up 96% of their diet, so wolves often follow their herds in winter.

Your Front-Row Seat to Winter’s Greatest Show

Bison walking along a snowy hill in Yellowstone National Park.

Understanding where wildlife goes and why they move is one thing. Actually witnessing these survival strategies in action is something else entirely. Our winter Yellowstone Wolf & Wildlife tour takes a special focus on exploring wildlife in their natural habitat. Our expert guides will not only show you the diverse wildlife, including wolves, bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and many other surprises, but also help you understand the importance of each animal we encounter.

Our Full-Day and Half-Day winter tours also offer an unforgettable experience. Comfortable heated vehicles, professional-grade optics, expert guides, and knowledge of where wildlife will be during the winter season will keep you wanting more adventure. 

Winter in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons offers wildlife viewing that’s simply impossible during any other season. Concentrated herds, dramatic predator-prey interactions, and the stark beauty of snow-covered landscapes create an experience you’ll always remember. Join us this January through early April to witness one of America’s greatest winter wildlife spectacles. Book your winter tour today!