The haunting sound of the elk bugle echoing throughout the Grand Teton range is one of the many reasons people visit in the fall. Many bring their cameras and binoculars to watch the show of dominance from the bull elk signaling the annual rut or mating season of the herd. To discover how you can see the show, read on for tips on where to hear the elk bugling in Jackson Hole.
Elk Rut
Late September brings the start of the elk rut. The elk population moves from the elevated mountainsides of the Tetons down to the valley forests and flat grassy lands of the Yellowstone region.
The male bull elk showcase their physical and genetic superiority to the observing female cows. The rut starts with the distinct combination of a low moan and high-pitched whistle known as the elk bugle that attracts cows and calls out a challenge to other bulls. The bulls size each other up, the lesser equipped bull quickly retreating, but if evenly matched, they enter an intense sparring session that could end in death for the loser. The victor easily finds a female to mate with and joins his harem for the season.
The best time to hear the distinct sounds of the elk bugle are at dawn and dusk when the wildlife becomes more active. Plan a unique Jackson Hole picnic with snacks, blankets, and binoculars and wait for the distinct sounds to start. Bring your binoculars for a closer view of this unique show by Mother Nature.
Grand Teton National Park
The best places for all things elk are found less than 20 minutes north of Jackson Hole, in the Grand Teton National Park. You can hear the bugling calls echoing off the rocky mountainside entering the park. As you tour throughout the park, you can easily spot a herd grazing in the surrounding fields. Some of the best places to hear the elk are at the Bradley-Taggert trailhead, White Grass Ranch, and Granite Canyon.
Bradley Taggert Trailhead
A popular destination for wildlife viewing, approaching the trailhead at dawn, see elk running through the trees, and hear their calls as they gather around the lake loop further on the trail.
White Grass Ranch
Just inside the Grand Teton park entrance near the Death Canyon trailhead is White Grass Ranch. The flat grassy meadows of the historic ranch are an ideal spot for elk to gather and find food. Visitors often gather at the edge of the grounds armed with binoculars and perked ears awaiting the chortling sound of the bugle.
National Elk Refuge
During the cooler months, over 6000 elk descend to the national refuge to forage and congregate for the winter. While the rutting season is happening, you can even hear the bugling from the parking area.
Jackson Hole
Residents of Jackson Hole look forward to hearing the chilling sounds of the bugling elk from the comfort of home. With a telescope in one hand and a coffee in the other, locals enjoy the unique sights and sounds of the rut.
Tips for Interacting with Wildlife
When viewing any wildlife in their natural habitat, it is always best to keep a safe distance and do so with extreme caution. Disturbing the wildlife is dangerous for them and for you. So, do your best to remain as quiet as possible.
Stay at Huff House Inn in Jackson Hole
After exploring where to hear the elk bugling in Jackson Hole, rest and relax at the luxurious Huff House Inn. Our luxury boutique hotel is located a few blocks from Town Square and minutes from the top spots to hear the elk, making it easy to experience all that the area has to offer.
Enjoy well-appointed rooms, an outdoor patio area all year round with a warming hot tub, firepit, and seating area. Plus, little extras like daily homemade cookies, complimentary coffee, plush bathrobes, and luxurious linens, all there to help make your stay with us the best it can be! Book your stay with us today!