JACKSON, Wyo. — Caution! Elk crossing ahead!
At long last, elk are making their winter journey to lower elevations. Buckrail photographer Nick Sulzer captured this striking footage from Lower Gros Ventre Road, just outside of Grand Teton National Park.
Elk typically arrive in Jackson in mid-December, although this year’s snowpack has delayed them a bit. In the late spring, they’ll head back up to their higher-elevation summer ranges in Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest.
The Jackson elk herd is the largest in North America. According to the National Park Service, 30,000 to 40,000 elk live in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem overall.
Elk are extremely photogenic, but photographers, whether amateur or professional, should not approach these animals. Stay at least 25 yards away from elk. If an elk charges, quickly seek shelter in a vehicle or behind a tall, sturdy barrier. If shelter is unavailable, run away.
