2026 Elk Reduction Program begins November 14 in Grand Teton National Park

News and Adventure from Glacier National Park

Grand Teton National Park will conduct its annual elk reduction program November 14 through December 6. After reviewing available biological data, the National Park Service (NPS) and Wyoming Game and Fish Department determined the program is necessary to maintain the herd at its population objective and achieve desired elk distribution.

Authorized under the park’s 1950 enabling legislation, the program is jointly managed by the NPS and Wyoming Game and Fish Department and uses Wyoming-licensed hunters with limited-quota permits to harvest elk in designated areas.

The program is an important management tool with requirements that distinguish it from traditional elk hunting programs. Participants must carry their state license for Elk Hunt Area 75, conservation stamp, elk special management permit, 2026 park elk reduction program permit and hunter education card, regardless of age. Harvest is restricted to cows and calves. Additional requirements include non-lead ammunition, fluorescent orange or pink clothing, and immediately accessible bear spray in a non-expired can of at least 7.9 ounces. Archery equipment, handguns, non-centerfire rifles and artificial elk calls are prohibited.

In 2026, a total of 40 permits are authorized for the program. Only Area 75 is open for the elk reduction program this year. Within Area 75, the Antelope Flats portion and the Snake River bottom between Deadman’s Bar and Ditch Creek are closed throughout the season.

To support chronic wasting disease (CWD) surveillance, participants must turn in the head of every elk harvested in the park at the designated drop-off location in Moose. Park personnel collect lymph nodes and submit them to the Wyoming Game and Fish Wildlife Health Lab for CWD testing. Participants can check their test results online.

NPS and Wyoming Game and Fish personnel patrol the program area to ensure compliance and provide information about the program requirements and bear safety. Areas remain open to park visitors during the program, and visitors are strongly encouraged to wear bright colors.

More information can be found at www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/elkreduction.htm.

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Check out our online trail guides:

• Glacier National Park: HikinginGlacier.com

• Grand Teton National Park: TetonHikingTrails.com

• Rocky Mountain National Park: RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

• Ramble On: A History of Hiking