The Wildflower Nature Discovery Trail is a moderate 0.7 mile (one way) hike into the foothills of the Gros Ventre Mountains in the National Elk Refuge. In addition to showing off a wide variety of wildflowers and vegetation growing both in the valley and the mountainsides, the hike has the distinction of being the only hike within the wildlife refuge.
Wildflower Nature Discovery Trail Description
From the parking area, begin by winding through the sagebrush flats toward the mountains just to the east. Along the way, numerous signs on the ground will point out the diverse plant life of the valley.
The elevation gain quickly increases as you begin to near the forest line. After crossing under power lines, you’ll bend southward once within the forest. As the trail consistently climbs upward, the forest will thicken, enveloping the trail.
You’ll soon emerge into a large meadow where you’ll make a switchback to begin skirting along the boundary with the Bridger-Teton National Forest. One last climb brings you up to the trail’s terminus, complete with an informative sign, as well as gorgeous views of Jackson, the National Elk Refuge, and the Teton Mountains to the north.
Beyond this point, the trail continues, but it’s an unmaintained trail as it wanders through the national forest along the mountainside.
Getting There
From downtown Jackson, head east on Broadway Ave. until it runs into the entrance of the National Elk Refuge. Follow the dirt road northward for 2.1 miles, and look for the large parking area on the right where a sign will indicate the only hiking trail in the area.