The Nelson Knoll makes for a great quick and easy jaunt on the boundary of the National Elk Refuge. It can be easily combined with either a walk around east Jackson, or the Putt Putt Trail or Woods Canyon Trail at the same trailhead. The short trail provides some great views overlooking the town of Jackson, as well as the southern end of the refuge with the Tetons towering over.

Nelson Knoll Trail Description

From the trailhead, ascend up the barren hillside, where switchbacks make the ascent a bit easier. Along the way you’ll notice signs asking you not to cut switchbacks. The vegetation here is very thin and fragile, so please do not cut the trail anywhere.

At the top of the first ascent, gorgeous views emerge of the Tetons towering over the valley. Just ahead a bench welcomes you to enjoy the view. When ready, head left to continue up the trail. You’ll wrap around the base of the second knoll, coming to another fork. Straight will head back while left will make a short but steep ascent toward the summit. While the trail doesn’t quite get to the summit, it does provide more views of Jackson.

From the top of the trail, follow the fenceline to the right, where it descends steeply down the hill. At the bottom, you’ll connect with an old 2-track road. Head right and you’ll be brought back to the trailhead, closing out the loop.

Getting There

From Town Square in downtown Jackson, head east on Broadway Ave. for 0.9 miles. At the dead-end with the National Elk Refuge on the left, take a right onto Nelson Drive. Follow that through an S-curve for 0.2 miles and head left at a fork. At the next left turn, head left where you’ll see the parking area and trailhead just ahead.